You travel independently to La Rochelle. Check in at your hotel. If you have arrived early, take a stroll through the capital of Charente-Maritime, vibrant and full of character, well known for its mild climate. Discover the lively Vieux Port full of outdoor cafés, busy shopping streets and the many town monuments. 

As the famous towers which defend the port of La Rochelle hove into view, a cycle path section takes you to the Port of Minimes, then onto the Cove of Godechaud, right next to the sea. The delightful Bay of Châtelaillon comes into sight next and offers weary cyclists a very pleasant stopping point. After the Bay of Châtelaillon comes a pretty seaside section before heading back inland towards the ‘royal city’ of Rochefort. While the middle section of this route might appear somewhat commonplace, the remarkable town of Rochefort is well worth exploring. 

Challenge : 48.3km, 305m ascent, 223m descent

It’s with great regret that you leave behind Rochefort, its gardens on the banks of the Charente and its suspension bridge -the Viaduc de Martrou. You take the former steam-railway tracks, now a greenway and La Vélodyssée which brings you to the marshes, criss-crossed with little channels, before heading onto the oyster centre of Marennes. The Marennes Country, home to the leading oyster farms in Europe, spreads over salt marshes and the Seudre estuary. End of your cycling day in La Tremblade, an authentic village. In summer, the sea festival is a must: traditional boats, oyster opening competition, giant eclades and fireworks! 

Challenge : 46.3 km, 88m ascent, 96m descent

You start today along the famous “Côte Sauvage”, here cycle paths are numerous and a truly memorable part of the route takes you through the forest of Coubre (and past its lighthouse the "Phare de la Coubre"). Further on, enjoy the splendid sea views. Following cycle lanes, the itinerary weaves through the coastal forest and past an array of pretty beaches, at one of which, is the charming village of Saint-Palais, before reaching the town of Royan. All you have to do is to enjoy this seaside resort and catch a boat tomorrow morning! 

Challenge : 38.8 km, 124m ascent, 118m descent

Take the ferry to cross the estuary of the Gironde to reach the region Medoc famous for its great wines. Upon entering the Gironde, a new world reveals itself to travellers. Pleasant cycle lanes wind their way from Verdon to the charming Soulac-sur-Mer with its lively streets and pretty seaside villas, you take the path towards Montalivet. The sea entices you in for a cooling dip; then direction South to Hourtin, through a forested area which is most pleasant in hot weather. 

The ferry crossing from Royan to Le Verdon takes around 20-25 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on site before boarding.

Some customers find it a bit challenging to board with bikes and luggage, so it's important to plan accordingly for a smoother experience. 

Challenge : 71.9 km, 138m ascent, 132m descent

Leave Hortin following a long track through the forest, to reach the bank of the Gironde estuary and the vineyards of Pauillac. A day to discover the real natural diversity of the Médoc. The end of your cycling day takes you through the most renowned international vineyards, you stop in the prestigious village of Margaux, land of “Grands Crus”! 

Challenge : 68.8km, 227m ascent, 230m descent

For your last day on your bike, leave the prestigious “Château Margaux” and cross the vineyards until you reach the gates of Bordeaux. Enter the city along the banks of the Garonne and end this adventure on the famous “Place de la Bourse”. Bordeaux, the beautiful old town, closed to cars, is ideal for a walking tour. Discover the medieval streets and the magnificent white stone buildings. 

Challenge : 33.8 km, 258m ascent, 267m descent

After breakfast, end of your cycling trip. Some time left? We advise you to extend your stay in order to take the time to visit the beautiful Bordeaux!