The Velodyssée, from Arcachon to the Basque
Country by Bike

This cycling journey along the Vélodyssée will take you on a ride between the Atlantic Ocean, large lakes, gigantic dunes, endless beaches, small seaside towns and charming historical places. This southern section of the Vélodyssée between Arcachon and Bayonne is undeniably one of the most interesting ones.

Departing from Arcachon (6 days/5 nights) or Bordeaux (8 days/7 nights) you gradually reach Bayonne, the fascinating capital of the Basque Country, following the legendary Vélodyssée, which is none other than the longest cycle routes in France and even in Europe. On the way, you will enjoy of the wonderful tranquility that reigns throughout a tunnel of greenery, known as the Landes forest. The route has no major difficulty, and you will cycle in the shade of the pines, have occasions for nice breaks or "swimming" stops on the ocean beaches of the Atlantic or at the the lakes of Cazaux and Sanguinet, Biscarrosse and Parentis or further south, the pond of Léon. Do not miss to taste the typical dishes of the region, that are renowned throughout the world for their richness and diversity.

Along the way, you will also discover Arcachon and its winter town – famous for its sumptuous villas -, the Arcachon Bay, the 110 meters high Dune of Pilat (the highest in Europe!), the surf spots of Mimizan and Hossegor, the lively marina of Capbreton, and finally the exceptional historical center of Bayonne and its maze of Basque-colored narrow streets.

You will enjoy the stopover towns of Biscarrosse, Mimizan or Moliets and their “summer vacation” atmosphere (shorts, flip-flops and caps are a must!). The port of Capbreton will mark your gradual entry into the Basque Country. You then end your Atlantic odyssey in Bayonne, whose medieval quarter with its surprising Basque architecture will ensure that your stay ends in style!

It is possible to extend the tour by one day and continue to Biarritz, St-Jean-de-Luz or Hendaye, at the Spanish border, and then return by train to Bayonne from one of these posh but charming seaside resorts.

Bon voyage !

1) STARTING IN ARCACHON - 6 to 7 DAYS (5 to 6 NIGHTS) :

Day 1 : arrival in Arcachon

By train or by car, reach your accommodation in Arcachon. You will be welcomed in a 3* hotel. Delivery of documentation on the region and the roadbook.
Internationally renowned seaside resort, Arcachon was born during the 19th century, from the imagination of daring pioneers who bet on the fashion of sea bathing. Set off to explore this city, the winter town and its sumptuous Second Empire villas, its churches, its promenade along the Bay and its port.

The Arcachon Bay has also been the kingdom of the oyster production since the middle of the last century, and its 84 km of beaches surrounded by pine trees make it an original and privileged place, unique on the coasts of France. Surrounded to the West by the wild ocean, to the north and east by the Bordeaux vineyards, to the south by the immense Landes forest, the bay benefits from the mildness of a climate with invigorating scents of sea air and pine resin.

Night and breakfast in a 3 or 4* hotel.


Day 2 : from Arcachon to Biscarosse Bourg / Beach - 30 to 40 km (19 to 25 mi)

Start your journey towards the Dune of Pilat, which you can climb to admire the beauty of the site. Then pedal under the pines of the Landes forest. Here, the triple mixture ocean-sea-forest creates a unique and delightful atmosphere. The Vélodyssée will take you to Biscarrose, famous for its waves. But the seaside resort is also renowned for its beaches, dunes and Landes pine forests... a whole sunny expanse to discover. The atmosphere of the city is revitalizing. Its sweet summer vibes guarantees you an absolute change of scenery. Sandcastles, kites, sunbathing, syrups on the terrace, aperitifs, night markets, waffles, street shows, rides, casino...

Night and breakfast in a 3* hotel (can be 2* in very high season).


Day 3 : from Biscarosse to Mimizan Plage - 52 km (32 mi)

The Vélodyssée takes you more inland today! You leave the coast to find the blue of the ponds which replaces that of the sea. You will discover the pond of Cazaux and Sanguinet, the second largest lake in France (5800 ha!), a small paradise surrounded by greenery and pines. Then you will go to the pond of Biscarrosse and Parentis. The track then leads you between lake ports and intimate natural ponds, makes you cross the national forest and then reach the ocean at Mimizan Plage. This seaside resort dates back to the "Belle Epoque" when sea bathing became fashionable and was very popular amongst the wealthy clientele. Mimizan owes part of its popularity to the now defunct railway.

Night and breakfast in a 2* hotel.


Day 4 : from Mimizan to Moliets - 55 km (35 mi)

Leave the attractive seaside resort of Mimizan plage and rejoin to the Vélodyssée for a ride in the forest. Enjoy this pleasant, silent and quiet stage through the woods embellished by the smells of the pine forest. Let yourself be carried away by the sea air and enjoy the nearby ocean beaches by leaving the track from time to time. Pedestrian paths and cycle paths invite you to discover the forest and the peaceful ponds, a whole space of calm and relaxation. Discover then the beaches of Contis and St. Girons, as well as the beaches of the lake of Léon. Let yourself be seduced by the rural and seaside aspect of the towns of the Landes. You'll end your day's stage in Moliets, another lively seaside resort in the Landes.

Night and breakfast in 3* hotel.


Day 5 : from Moliets to Bayonne in the Basque country (55 km (35 mi)

Last section of the Landes… The track takes you one last time to the heart of the forest to discover emblematic seaside resorts such as Hossegor or Capbreton. Enjoy the large beaches before you continue on more urban terrain as you approach "Boucau". Here you are in a new setting on the Atlantic coast: the Basque Country. Pedaling on a cycle path, you will arrive in its wonderful capital, Bayonne, that you can fully enjoy as you stay there for the night.

Night and breakfast in 3* hotel.


Day 6/7 : end of stay or extension to Biarritz, St-Jean-de-Luz or Hendaye - 15/30/49 km (9/19/30 mi) before going back to Bayonne

If you opt for an extra night in Bayonne, you have the option of exploring the town at your ease, or alternatively, why not continue even further on the Vélodyssée to the posh seaside resort of Biarritz (15 km/ 9 mi), the magnificent harbour town of St-Jean-de -Luz (30 km/ 19 mi) or even Hendaye, at the Spanish border (49 km/ 30 mi)? This additional stage will take you through typically Basque opulent seaside resorts.
The last section, between St-Jean-de-Luz and Hendaye, follows a beautiful panoramic road rising steeply above the sea: the "Route de la Corniche Basque" (Basque Corniche Road). However, this road has the disadvantage of traffic that can be quite dense, especially in summer, and there is no cycle path.

Whatever your final destination, you will find a train station, which will allow you to return to Bayonne whenever you want: the trains to Bayonne are regular, and the return journey takes a maximum of 38 minutes.

Night and breakfast in 3* hotel in Bayonne. End of stay after breakfast the next day.


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2) STARTING FROM BORDEAUX - 8 to 9 days (7 to 8 nights) :

Day 1 : Arrival in Bordeaux

Arrival at your accommodation in Bordeaux. You will be given documentation on the region and a roadbook. Bordeaux, the ancient Roman "Burdigala", inextricably linked with its vineyards, shines brightly in its stone finery. Bordeaux is the second city in France, after Paris, with the highest number of listed monuments. The river Garonne, which runs through the heart of the city, welcomes walkers on its banks or for boat trips. Take the time to walk the quays, maybe you'll witness the stopover of a cruise liner, an "astonishing spectacle" of a giant of the seas right in the city centre.

Night and breakfast in a 3* hotel.


Day 2 : from Bordeaux to Lacanau-Océan 64 km (40 mi)

Your cycling holiday in Aquitaine today takes you from Bordeaux, the wine capital, to Lacanau Océan, a seaside town on the Atlantic coast. You'll be cycling along a cycle path that follows the route of the old Bordeaux-Lacanau railway line. It's in the heart of nature, with dense vegetation and a shady path. The route is very smooth and safe, in a region dominated by pine forests and the song of the cicadas. Most of it is on cycle paths, but there are also stretches on forest tracks and paths. « Lacanau-Océan », where cycling is a way of life, is appreciated for its long ocean beaches sheltered by dunes and forests, its lakes and its unspoilt natural areas. The seaside resort is also renowned for its surf spots. Its villas, built in the early 20th century, bear witness to a rich past.

Night and breakfast in a 3* hotel.


Day 3 : from Lacanau-Océan to Arcachon 45 km (28 mi)

This cycling stage continues from "Lacanau-Océan" between dunes and forests. You'll cycle on a cycle path and cross some of the largest unspoilt beaches on the Aquitaine coast; Le Porge Océan boasts an immense 13 km long beach, with no buildings whatsoever. To make the most of it, yo can leave the cycle path from time to time. During the day, you continue cycling along a beautiful route towards the Arcachon Bay.

Enjoy a pleasant afternoon cycling through the typical oyster-farming villages of the Bay of Arcachon and take the ferry to the famous seaside resort of Arcachon.

Night and breakfast in a 3* hotel.


Days 4 to 8/9 : same as day 2 to 6/7 described above

1. Duration:
   
   
   • ARCACHON - BAYONNE : 6 days et 5 nights. 4 days biking.
   • ARCACHON - ST-JEAN-DE-LUZ/HENDAYE : 7 days and 6 nights. 5 days biking.
   • BORDEAUX - BAYONNE : 8 days and 7 nights. 6 days biking.
   • BORDEAUX - ST-JEAN-DE-LUZ/HENDAYE : 9 days and 8 nights. 7 days biking.


2. Minimum age:
   
   There's no minimum age for this tour, which is particularly well-suited to families with children, with its safe, exclusive route, no hilly terrain and dream beaches for a great time. Bike trailers and follower bikes are available!


3. Seasons: from April to October.
   
   The South Atlantic coast enjoys a climate halfway between oceanic and Mediterranean, with relatively mild, wet winters and fairly hot, dry summers.
   
   Spring temperatures are pleasant, but the sea will be still quite cool, especially at the start of the season.
   
   In the summer, the region enjoys a Mediterranean influence, and the weather is generally sunny and warm, but not excessively so. Peaks of heat cannot be ruled out, but fortunately there is plenty of shade on the whole, and the sea is never far away to cool off. The seaside resorts are also at their busiest during this period.
   
   The region also generally enjoys a beautiful off-season, with pleasant temperatures until the end of October and almost as much sunshine as in summer. And the ocean hasn't really had time to cool down yet!
   
   In late autumn and winter, the weather is fairly cool, making cycling less suitable. Many accommodation establishments also close for the year at this time.
   
   Note: the weather can vary greatly from one year to the next. The information given above is only an average.
   


4. Arrival on site : any day
   


5. Getting there and back:
   
   
   • Start of the tour : Arcachon or Bordeaux
   • End of the tour : Bayonne
   
   It is possible to get there by train, as well as returning from there.
   
   
6. Getting back to the departure point from Bayonne:
   
   
   • To Bordeaux : direct TGV (high-speed train) - ca. 2h.
     If you have to carry your own bikes on the train, it is then easier to travel on a regional train (TER), even if it is a bit longer.
     
     
   • To Arcachon : count around 2h13 and 2h45 to get back, combining 2 regional trains (TER), with a connexion in Facture Liganos.
   
   Carrying bicycles in regional trains is free of charge, and they don't have to be dismantled.


7. Start of the bike tour :
   
   The cycling tour begins on Day 2.


8. Type of journey :
   
   Linear (itinerant).


9. Supervision:
   
   Self-guided, with telephone assistance in case of mechanical issues. To navigate, you will have a detailed roadbook, as well as GPS tracks of the route via an easy-to-use navigation app. As the navigation is satellite-based, no internet connection is required.


10. Level : easy
    
    
    • Height differences : Both the coast and the hinterland are very flat. Only the dunes add a little relief, but we advise you to climb them on foot ;-).
    
    
    • Length of stages : approximately 35 to 55 km (22 to 31 mi) per day, leaving you plenty of time to make extended stops along the way.
    
    
    • Terrain : Over 99% tarmac surface. A few compact gravel tracks, which do not require suspension or mountain bike tyres.
    
    
11. Accomodation : : 3* hotels (except one 2* hotel - in very high season, two times in a 2* hotel)
    
    All rooms have an ensuite bathroom and all accommodations have some space to store your bicycles.


12. Meals :
    
    Breakfasts are included. Lunch and dinners are at your leisure. During the day, you can eat in the local restaurants (you will find daily suggestions in our roadbook) or have a picnic by refueling in the supermarkets.
    Half board is not available on this trip but you will always have a few restaurants within walking distance from your accommodation.


13. Luggage transfer :
    
    You only carry your day's belongings during the cycling stages. Your luggage is transported from one accommodation to another by us, you find them at the end of the day at your accommodation. It is possible to transport your luggage yourself in side panniers. In this case you get a discount. Contact us.


14. Travel Documents:
    
    A detailed roadbook in English and GPS tracks (via our navigation app).
    
    You'll find your roadbook at your first hotel.


15. Bicycles:
    
    We offer quality bikes for hire, fully equipped and adapted to the type of terrain.
    
    Equipment includes a smartphone holder, a waterproof pannier (20L), a lock, a repair set and (on request) a helmet.
    
    An electric bike can be hired for this trip.
    
    If you wish to bring your own bike, remember to check all the parts of the bike beforehand (wear and tear of brakes, tyres, sprockets, chain, etc.) to ensure that it is in technical order for a ride of 200 to 300 km.


16. Cancellation and assistance insurances:
    
    In order to guarantee reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay or in the event of problems (e.g. health, accident, theft, lost luggage, ...) during the trip, you can opt for a cancellation (CAP Explorer - premium cancellation) and/or assistance insurance (CAP Exporer - premium assistance). To learn more about our proposed insurances, click more info or ask us.

The price per person depends on the period and the bike rental.




The base price includes:

• A detailed roadbook with maps and tourist documentation
• GPS tracks via our navigation app
• The nights in 3* hotels (1 night in 2* - in very high season, 2x2* hotels)
• All breakfasts
• Transport of your luggage between accommodations
• Phone assistance
• Tourist taxes
• Registration fees

If you rent a bike:

• The bike and the equipment (helmet, lock, puncture repair kit, 20L waterproof bag, briefcase, etc.).
• Telephone assistance in the event of a mechanical problem
• Pick-up of bicycles.

The Options:

• On-site rental of a bicycle with or without electric assistance
• On-site rental of a bike trailer for kids and/or follow bikes
• Single room supplement
• Additional nights in Bordeaux, Arcachon or Bayonne
• Optional insurances: cancellation and/or assistance (more info)

The price does not include:

• The journey from your home to the meeting point, as well as the return
• Lunches and dinners
• Personal expenses
• Entrances to tourist sites
• Everything that is not listed in “the price includes”

    Stéphanie and Renette , 30 and 32 years old

"I recommend Cyclodyssées ! Thanks to Joseph for organizing our road trip from Arcachon to Saint Jean de Luz ! It was an unforgettable experience. The service is exceptional, with bike and luggage delivery between each hotel. The chosen hotels are very satisfactory, as well as the breakfasts. I will not hesitate to book another bike trip with Cyclodyssées."  13 august 2023