The Velodyssée, from Bordeaux to Bayonne
- From 1209 € / pers.
- 8 days (7 nights)
- From April to October
- Level: Rather easy
- Average: 51 km/day
- Electric bicycles (optional)
- Luggage transfer included
Highlights
- Bordeaux, the jewel of the South West
- The most wild part of the Vélodyssée
- The long sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and lazing around
- The impressive Dune of Pilat, which, at 110 m, is the highest in Europe
- Bayonne and its maze of narrow streets and typical Basque architecture
- A pleasant route: flat, in the shade of the pine forests and mostly on greenways
- The holiday atmosphere in the seaside towns
- Charming hotels
- The delicious gastronomy of the south-west
- The possibility of renting bike trailers or a Follow-me for your kids
Highlights :
- The discovery of Bordeaux, the jewel of the South West
- The wildest part of the Vélodyssée
- The long sandy beaches, ideal for swimming and lazing around
- The impressive Dune of Pilat, which, at 110 m, is the highest in Europe
- Bayonne and its maze of narrow streets and typical Basque architecture
- A pleasant route: flat, in the shade of the pine forests and mostly on greenways
- The holiday atmosphere in the seaside towns
- Charming hotels
- The delicious gastronomy of the south-west of France
- The possibility of renting a trailer or a follow-me bike for your kids
From 1209 € / pers.
- 8 days (7 nights)
- From April to October
- Level: Rather easy
- Average: 51 km/day
- Electric bicycles (optional)
- Luggage transfer included
THE VÉLODYSSÉE
The Vélodyssée is a cycling route of nearly 1,200 km, linking Roscoff in Brittany to Hendaye, on the Spanish border. Part of EuroVelo 1, it follows the Atlantic coast through a rich variety of landscapes: the Nantes–Brest Canal and its centuries-old locks, the marshes and hedgerow countryside of Vendée, vast beaches in Nouvelle-Aquitaine bordered by the largest maritime pine forest in Europe, before reaching the rolling terrain of the Basque Country where the Atlantic becomes wilder.
Developed for 80% on safe cycle paths or quiet roads, it offers smooth and secure cycling, even for families or occasional riders. You will pass through oyster-farming villages where you can enjoy oysters and white wine with your feet in the sand, ride past Atlantic Wall bunkers, admire iconic lighthouses, and travel between Belle Époque seaside resorts and colourful fishing villages.
The routes we offer are the most popular, as they start and finish in locations well served by rail, connecting two emblematic points of the Vélodyssée. However, if you would like a tailor-made itinerary—for example starting from where you left off on a previous trip—this is of course also possible.
THE VÉLODYSSÉE FROM BORDEAUX TO BAYONNE
This cycling journey along the Vélodyssée between Bordeaux and Bayonne takes you through a landscape of Atlantic coastline, large lakes, vast dunes, endless beaches and charming seaside towns. This southern section is undoubtedly the wildest part of the Vélodyssée.
This perfectly flat route crosses the largest pine forest in Europe and follows over 100 km of uninterrupted beaches. Along the way, you will find frequent opportunities for swimming: energetic Atlantic beaches or peaceful lakes such as Cazaux, Biscarrosse, Parentis and Léon.
You first cycle to Lacanau-Océan, a major European surfing destination, before reaching the Arcachon Bay via the oyster villages of Cap Ferret, from where you take a ferry to Arcachon. There, you will discover the Winter Town with its magnificent villas and the Dune du Pilat, standing 110 metres high (the tallest in Europe!).
You then enter the peaceful calm of the Landes forest, a true green tunnel filled with the scent of pine. This full immersion in nature, where silence is broken only by waves and wind through the trees, is deeply soothing. You pass through the holiday towns of Biscarrosse, Mimizan and Moliets, before reaching the famous surf spots of Hossegor and the lively marina of Capbreton, marking your arrival in the Basque Country.
You finish your Atlantic odyssey in Bayonne, whose medieval district, Basque architecture and colourful streets provide a vibrant finale. Be sure to sample the typical dishes of Aquitaine and the Basque Country, renowned worldwide for their richness and diversity.
Enjoy your trip!
💡GOOD TO KNOW
- Fancy extending the adventure? By adding a day, you can continue to the elegant seaside resort of Biarritz, the typically Basque port of St-Jean-de-Luz, or even all the way to Hendaye on the Spanish border before returning to Bayonne by train. This section is more hilly, but offers spectacular scenery very different from the Landes. And by then, your legs will already be well trained…
- For a more family-friendly itinerary, note that it can be difficult to shorten certain stages on the Vélodyssée due to limited accommodation options. However, we have designed a Vélodyssée itinerary specifically adapted for families, starting and finishing in La Rochelle.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
First note that if you prefer customised stages, don’t hesitate to contact us: we will propose an offer tailored to your needs.
Day 1: Arrival in Bordeaux
Arrival at your accommodation in Bordeaux and collection of your documentation and detailed roadbook. The former Roman "Burdigala", inseparable from its vineyards, shines in its golden stone façade. Bordeaux is France's second city, after Paris, with the highest number of listed monuments. The Garonne River, flowing through the city centre, welcomes walkers along its developed quays or for boat trips. The quays come alive with cruise ship calls, an astonishing sight of ocean giants right in the city centre.
Day 2: Bordeaux to Lacanau-Océan
64 km | 
+60 m
From Bordeaux, the wine capital, you head to Lacanau-Océan, a seaside resort on the Atlantic Ocean. You follow the Voie Verte, a cycle path along the former “Bordeaux-Lacanau” railway line. The route, smooth and safe, passes through pine forests accompanied by the sound of cicadas. The dense vegetation provides welcome shade, with occasional stretches on forest paths and trails.
Lacanau-Océan, where cycling is a way of life, is prized for its long ocean beaches protected by dunes and forests, its lakes, and preserved natural areas. The resort is known for its surf spots and early 20th-century villas, reflecting a rich history.
Day 3: Lacanau-Océan to Arcachon
45 km | +50 m
This stage continues between dunes and forests on secure cycle paths. You cross the largest wild beaches of the Aquitaine coast: Le Porge Océan stretches 13 km of untouched sandy beach. Don’t hesitate to leave the path temporarily to fully enjoy these expanses of sand. Always close to the shore, you make your way towards the Arcachon Bay.
This bay has been the kingdom of oysters since the mid-20th century. Its 84 km of beaches surrounded by pines make it unique along the French coast. Bordered to the west by the ocean, north and east by the Bordeaux vineyards, and south by the vast Landes forest, the bay enjoys a mild climate combining the invigorating scent of the sea and the resin of the pines.
Enjoy the end of the stage through the oyster-farming villages of Cap-Ferret before taking the ferry to the seaside resort of Arcachon.
⚠️ From 2026, the maximum bike weight for the Arcachon Bay ferry crossing is 25 kg. For electric bikes, the weight is considered "with the battery removed". All our rental bikes have removable batteries, so there’s no issue, but if you are travelling with your own electric bike, note that bikes with integrated non-removable batteries may not be allowed. In this case, it might be better to opt for a rental electric bike.
An internationally renowned seaside resort, Arcachon was founded in the 19th century by pioneering visionaries who capitalised on the sea bathing craze. Explore the town, the Ville d’Hiver with its sumptuous Second Empire villas, churches, the promenade along the bay, and its harbour.
Day 4: Arcachon to Biscarrosse
34 km | +100 m
First head to the Dune of Pilat, where a must-do climb to the summit rewards you with breathtaking views. You can’t come to the Bay without seeing it! Then cycle under the pines of the Landes forest. Here, everything comes together for a perfect ocean-lake-forest mix. The Vélodyssée, shortly after leaving the Gironde, takes you to Biscarrosse in the Landes department. The resort is known for its waves, but also for its beaches, dunes, and pinewoods. The town has a unique, invigorating atmosphere: sandcastles, kites, sunbathing, terrace drinks, aperitifs, night markets, waffles, street performances, rides, casino...
Day 5: Biscarrosse to Mimizan
59 km | +115 m
The Vélodyssée now takes you inland! Leaving the coast behind, you find the blue of the lakes replacing that of the sea. Discover Étang de Cazaux et de Sanguinet, France’s second-largest lake (5,800 ha!), a green paradise surrounded by pine trees, then follow Étang de Biscarrosse et de Parentis. The path winds through lake ports and secluded lakes to cross the state forest and reach the ocean at Mimizan Plage. This seaside resort dates from the Belle Époque when sea bathing became fashionable among the wealthy. Mimizan owes its development to the now-disappeared railway.
Day 6: Mimizan to Moliets
55 km | +130 m
You leave the attractive seaside resort of Mimizan and rejoin The Vélodyssée for an enchanting ride through the majestic Landes forest. Let yourself be invigorated by the fresh, salty sea air and enjoy the nearby ocean beaches, occasionally leaving the cycle path.
Discover the jewels of the Landes coast: Contis Plage with its wild atmosphere, Saint-Girons Plage with preserved dunes, and the beaches of Lake Léon, a true haven of peace.
You finish your ride in another lively Landes seaside resort: Moliets, popular with surfers for its beautiful waves.
Day 7: Moliets to Bayonne
55 km | +70 m
The last Landes stage… The path takes you one final time through the forest towards iconic resorts such as Hossegor, the world surfing temple, and Capbreton, the only port in the Landes. Enjoy the long sandy beaches and continue on more urban terrain approaching Boucau.
You now enter a new Atlantic setting: the Basque Country. Cycling along a pleasant cycle path beside the Adour, you reach its capital, Bayonne.
A true jewel of the Basque Country, Bayonne welcomes you with its remarkable architectural heritage: the majestic Sainte-Marie Cathedral, fortified ramparts, and colourful half-timbered houses along the Nive and Adour quays. Stroll through the Petit Bayonne district, authentic and lively, where pintxos bars compete in creativity.
Day 8: End of stay or one-day extension
End of your Atlantic odyssey after breakfast.
🚲 One-day extension (15 / 30 / 49 km | Elevation gain: variable)
💡 Why not prolong the pleasure and go further on the Vélodyssée to Biarritz (15 km), St-Jean-de-Luz (30 km) or even Hendaye (49 km), on the Spanish border? This additional stage takes you through seaside resorts as elegant as they are typically Basque. On this section, the coast is more rugged and there is some relief, but you will already have built up some endurance. And above all, you will be rewarded with magnificent views from Biarritz.
Whatever your final destination, you will find a train station allowing you to return to Bayonne at your convenience: trains are regular and the journey takes a maximum of 38 minutes.
ACCOMMODATION
We prioritise authentic, human-scale accommodation that inspires comfort, friendliness and well-being. We also make every effort to ensure they are well located: easily accessible by bike and, whenever possible, close to local amenities.
AVAILABLE COMFORT LEVEL(S)
3 ★ Hotels
A selection of addresses combining modern comfort and authenticity.
Photo provided as an example to illustrate the type of accommodation in this category.
Always included:
- Breakfast
- Private bathroom
- Bike storage
- Restaurant(s) within walking distance
- Well-chosen location
💡 Stays are mainly in 3 ★ hotels, with one night in a 4 ★ and one in a charming 2 ★ hotel. In peak season, there may be two nights in 2 ★ accommodation.
BIKE OPTIONS
Whether you choose a rental bike or bring your own, it is essential to have a bike suited both to the route and to your personal needs.
RENTAL BIKES
We offer high-quality trekking bikes and/or electric bikes, equipped with all essential accessories. Equipment for children is also available. However, we do not recommend this trip for children under 12, as some stages exceed 50 km.
Trekking bikes
Bikes from the Arcade brand, model Escape (or similar). With 21 gears and an aluminium frame, they allow you to handle the few gentle climbs with ease. The men’s model has a high frame.
Electric bikes (E-bikes)
BREEZER Powertrip Evo 3.2+ S bikes or similar, equipped with a minimum 500 Wh battery. You can expect a range of at least 70 kilometres with excellent comfort.
Child trailers
The route is also suitable for child trailers, which we offer for hire. They can accommodate up to two young children.
Children’s bikes
For children who are not yet adult-sized, children’s bikes are available for hire in various sizes.
Tag-along bikes
If your children are not yet used to long rides, the best solution is a tag-along bike, which can be attached to an adult bike at any time. The attachment system (see photo below) is included.
Photos for illustrative purposes only. Bikes subject to availability.
Included accessories:
- Smartphone holder
- Waterproof rear pannier (1 per bike)
- Small handlebar bag (1 per bike)
- Lock
- Repair kit
- Helmet(s) on request
IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE
Before departure, carefully check the condition of your bike: brakes, tyres, gears, derailleur, chain...
You may be far from assistance in case of mechanical issues!
Which bikes are suitable?
- Trekking bikes
- Mountain bikes
- Gravel bikes
- E-bikes with removable battery (see note below)
- City bikes
- Road bikes
- E-bikes without removable battery (see note below)
⚠️ Since 2026, the maximum weight for a bike on the Arcachon Bay ferry crossing is 25 kg. For electric bikes, the weight is measured with the battery removed. All our rental bikes have removable batteries, so this is not an issue. However, if you bring your own e-bike, please note that bikes with non-removable integrated batteries might be refused. In that case, it is best to opt for a rental e-bike.
💡 As the route includes some compact gravel sections, avoid tyres that are too thin or too smooth. Mountain bike tyres are not necessary, however.
LEVEL: RATHER EASY
➡️ Stages are moderately long (around 3 to 4 hours of cycling per day – max. 5).
This pace suits most people, combining the pleasure of cycling with time to explore along the way.
➡️ Both the coastline and inland areas are very flat.
If you choose the one-day extension in the Basque Country at the end of the trip, there is slightly more elevation.
DAILY DISTANCES:
ELEVATION:
TYPE OF ROUTE
The route is over 95% on cycle paths.
On sections alongside roads with some traffic, you will always be on a dedicated, safe cycle path.
The vast majority of the route is paved. The remainder consists of well-maintained compact gravel paths.
No technical difficulties to report.
💡 Our trips prioritise discovery and relaxation over effort. We therefore aim to adjust stage lengths based on terrain, route type and points of interest, so that each day remains balanced, enjoyable and open to the unexpected.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
⏱️ DURATION
8 days and 7 nights, including arrival and departure days. 6 days of cycling.
💡It is possible to extend the tour by one day to bike to Biarritz, St-Jean-de-Luz and/or Hendaye.
📅 AVAILABLE START DATES
Every day from April to October.
🗺️ ROUTE TYPE
Linear.
📍 START AND END POINTS
Start of the trip: Bordeaux
End of the trip: Bayonne
🌦️ WHEN TO GO?
Weather conditions are generally favourable from April to October.
In spring, temperatures are usually pleasant, although the sea is still relatively cool, especially at the beginning of the season.
In summer, the weather is generally sunny and warm, without being excessive thanks to the ocean’s influence. Heatwaves can still occur, but the route is mostly well shaded, and you are never far from a swimming spot. Coastal resorts are also at their busiest during this period.
The region also benefits from a lovely late season, with the ocean still retaining much of its warmth.
🍽️ MEALS
Breakfasts are included.
Lunches and dinners are not included.
During the day, you can eat in local restaurants (you will find recommendations in your roadbook) or opt for a picnic using supplies from local shops.
For dinner, there will always be several restaurants within walking distance of your accommodation… unless your hotel already has its own restaurant!
🧳 LUGGAGE TRANSFER
Your luggage is transported from one accommodation to the next by one of our partners. You only carry your day essentials while cycling. A pannier bag is provided with rental bikes.
If you prefer to carry your luggage in panniers, you will benefit from a discount.
🚩 GETTING THERE
BY TRAIN
Bordeaux is a major rail hub, with direct services (TGV, Ouigo or Intercités) connecting it to many major cities.
Direct connections from:
BY CAR
There is a paid covered car park close to our partner hotel.
Alternatively, 15 minutes by tram from our partner hotel, you will find a free public car park open 24/7: Estacade Street car park. Please park inside the designated area rather than along the street.
💡 This car park is often full during the day; you are more likely to find a space in the evening or early morning.
🔁 RETURNING TO THE START
The easiest option is by train.
Take the direct TER train to Bordeaux (approx. 2 hours).
💡 If you are travelling with your own bikes, they can be taken on the TER between Bayonne and Bordeaux without being dismantled, but a bike reservation is required (approx. €5 per bike). We recommend booking your bike spaces well in advance, especially at weekends, as availability is limited.
On request, we can also arrange a private shuttle transfer.
📑 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
To ensure you make the most of your trip, we provide a range of practical and easy-to-use materials:
A printed roadbook (A5 booklet), including:
- Practical information
- Route description
- Detailed maps
- All necessary tourist information
- Restaurant recommendations
- Places to buy supplies
Our navigation app (with your GPS tracks)
- Easy-to-use app (a short tutorial will be provided if needed)
- Satellite navigation (works in flight mode)
- Custom routes between each accommodation
- Voice guidance
📞 INDEPENDENCE & ASSISTANCE
You travel independently (self-guided), with 7/7 telephone assistance in case of any issues.
🛡️ INSURANCE
To ensure reimbursement of costs in case of trip cancellation or issues during your stay, you may take out cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer Cancellation) or assistance cover (CAP Explorer Assistance). Learn more about cancellation and assistance insurance .
An optional theft & damage insurance is also available for those renting a bike.
🎒 WHAT TO BRING
A helmet, lock, repair kit, phone holder and waterproof rear pannier form the basic equipment. If you rent a bike, these are included (helmet on request only).
For greater comfort, we also recommend bringing the following additional accessories:
Waterproof overtrousers
Lightweight, waterproof, windproof and easy to put on, they protect against rain, splashes and mud. Some models include gaiters that also cover your shoes.
Power bank
Useful for charging your phone during lunch breaks, as navigation consumes a lot of battery even in flight mode. Recommended unless your battery is particularly strong.
Approx. €10–20.
Padded cycling shorts or gel saddle cover
Padded shorts improve comfort by absorbing shocks and reducing friction on longer rides. Alternatively, opt for a padded saddle cover.
Water bottle
More practical and sustainable than disposable bottles. Some models keep drinks cool for several hours thanks to insulated double walls.
Buff / neck warmer / beanie
Outside of summer, mornings can be cool—you’ll be glad you brought them!
PRICES 2026
Prices are based on two people sharing a double/twin room. All prices are per person and subject to availability of the requested room type.| Package | Low season | High season |
|---|---|---|
| Double/twin room | €1209 | €1269 |
| Single room supplement | + €410 | + €470 |
|
Child discounts (* sharing a room with 2 full-paying adults) |
0–3 years: -80% | 4–11 years: -25% | 12–17 years: -25% | |
| Group discount | 6–11 people: -5% | 12+ people: -10% | |
| Extra nights (optional) |
Low season | High season | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bordeaux | Double/twin room | €85 | €85 |
| Single room | €145 | €145 | |
| Arcachon | Double/twin room | €80 | €95 |
| Single room | €155 | €185 | |
| Bayonne | Double/twin room | €80 | €95 |
| Single room | €155 | €185 | |
💡 SEASONS
- Low season: 01/04 – 30/06 & 01/09 – 31/10
- High season: 01/07 – 31/08
|
BIKE HIRE – equipment, delivery and return included – |
|
|---|---|
| Electric bike | €285 |
| Trekking bike | €170 |
| Children’s bike (under 12) | €150 |
| Child trailer | €120 |
| Tag-along bike | €115 |
THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES
- Accommodation in carefully selected hotels (see “Accommodation” tab)
- Breakfast at each accommodation
- Luggage transfer between accommodations
- Crossing of the Arcachon Bay from Cap-Ferret
- A detailed roadbook with colour maps and tourist information
- GPS tracks via our navigation app
- Luggage tags
- 7/7 telephone assistance
- Tourist taxes
- Booking fees
OPTIONS
- Bike hire
- Single room supplement
- Extra night(s) in Bordeaux, Arcachon and/or Bayonne
- Optional insurance: cancellation and/or assistance
- Bike theft and damage insurance
THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- The journey from your home to Bordeaux and the return from Bayonne
- Lunches and dinners
- Entrance fees to tourist sites and personal expenses
- Anything not listed under “THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES”
SPECIAL CASES
- If you carry your own luggage, a discount applies (see booking form). An additional pannier is provided if you hire a bike.
- Solo travellers: a logistics supplement applies in addition to the single room supplement.
REVIEWS
Etienne and Marie-Noëlle, 64 and 58 years old"Excellent organisation. Very responsive to requests and very reassuring. High-quality hotels, support and recommendations. A wonderful holiday thanks to Cyclodyssées." May 2025
Stéphanie and Renette, 30 and 32 years old
"I highly recommend Cyclodyssées! Many thanks to Joseph for organising our road trip from Arcachon to Saint-Jean-de-Luz. It was an unforgettable experience. The service is excellent, with bike delivery and luggage transfers between each hotel. The hotels and breakfasts were very good. I would not hesitate to book another bike trip with Cyclodyssées." August 2023
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