Between ViaRhôna & Dolce Via : Family bike tour in the secret Ardèche
- From 729 € / adult
- 6 days / 5 nights
- From June to August
- Departures : any day (except Thursdays)
- Level : easy
- Electric bicycle available
- Luggage transfer included
Highliths :
- A route off the beaten path, mostly on greenways
- An itinerary combining 3 legendary cycle routes: the ViaRhôna, the Dolce Via and the Via Fluvia
- The charm of the Dolce Via, elected “most beautiful greenway in Europe” in 2020
- The splendid and varied landscapes of Ardèche, between forests, pastures, and wild rivers
- The small picturesque villages along the way
- The swimming spots in the rivers
Highlights :
- A route off the beaten path, mostly on greenways.
- An itinerary combining 3 legendary cycle routes: the ViaRhôna, the Dolce Via and the Via Fluvia.
- The charm of the Dolce Via, elected “most beautiful greenway in Europe” in 2020.
- The splendid and varied landscapes of Ardèche, between forests, pastures, and wild rivers.
- The small picturesque villages along the way
- The swimming spots in the rivers
From 729 € / adult
- 6 days / 5 nights
- From June to August
- Departures : any day (except Thursdays)
- Level : easy
- Electric bicycle available
- Luggage transfer included
ARDÈCHE BY BIKE
The Ardèche... Ithis small corner of France captivates with the raw beauty of its wild landscapes and timeless villages. Both magnificent and secretive, it embodies a unique spirit: that of an untamed land that has always welcomed free spirits and travellers seeking authenticity.
For a long time, despite its undeniable tourist appeal, this region remained off the beaten track, protected by its rugged terrain. It has served at times as a refuge for persecuted Protestant communities, a haven for 1970s hippies, and later a sanctuary for neo-rurals seeking a simpler lifestyle. The Ardèche has thus forged an extraordinary identity. It has no highways or commercial airports, and it is the only department in France without a SNCF railway station! Here, people take their time, slow their pace, and let themselves be guided by the rhythm of nature.
Today, the old railways that once connected the Rhône valley to the perched villages have been transformed into magnificent cycling paths: the Dolce Via and the Via Fluvia. Thanks to the grandeur of the landscapes they cross, these are prime routes for lovers of open-air travel. In fact, the Dolce Via was voted Europe's most beautiful greenway in 2020. Often overlooking the valleys, it reveals unforgettable panoramas, while the Via Fluvia, linking the Loire to the Rhône, winds through upland landscapes of pastures, forests, and stone hamlets. Finally, the ViaRhôna, now a classic route, invites you to follow the peaceful riverbanks.
YOUR ITINERARY
This 5-stage easy cycling tour of the Ardèche that we propose is an ideal itinerant trip to discover the Ardèche by bike with your children, combining two of the most emblematic cycling paths: the ViaRhôna and the Dolce Via. This route will delight nature lovers, as it is almost entirely on greenways, allowing for a peaceful enjoyment of nature.
The loop starts in Valence, a lively town on the banks of the Rhône, perfect for strolling through parks or old streets. Following the river along the ViaRhôna, you reach your first stage town, Tournon-sur-Rhône, a typical small riverside town known for its beautiful vineyard views on the opposite bank and its Chocolate Museum. The next morning, a picturesque heritage train takes you to the heights of the Ardèche, in Lamastre, where your journey along the beautiful Dolce Via begins. This greenway gradually leads you into the wild and vibrant Eyrieux Valley. Lined with chestnut trees, the path meanders through an authentic Ardèche, punctuated with old mills, tunnels, and viaducts — remnants of the railway era. Several beaches and swimming spots along the way promise refreshing stops.
The Eyrieux gradually brings you back to the Rhône. From there, the ViaRhôna guides you peacefully back to Valence, allowing you to discover some perched villages reminiscent of Provence along the way.
This cycling trip through the Ardèche, alternating between greenways, quiet roads, and diverse landscapes, will awaken all your senses. Generous and untamed, the Ardèche wonderfully reveals itself at the pace of your pedalling.
Have a great trip!
DAY-BY-DAY PROGRAMME
Day 1: Arrival in Valence
Your cycling trip in the Ardèche begins in Valence, nicknamed the “Gateway to the South”, marking the transition between northern landscapes and the Mediterranean climate. Traversed by the Rhône and dominated by the Ardèche hills, the town charms with its southern yet contemporary atmosphere. The TGV connection has revitalised it, yet it has retained its authentic charm.
Stroll through the old town, discover Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral and its narrow pedestrian streets, and enjoy a break at Jouvet Park, a true green oasis. In the evening, indulge in a local restaurant serving regional cuisine complemented by the famous wines of the Côtes-du-Rhône.
Day 2: Valence – Tournon-sur-Rhône
22 km | 
+60 m | ⏱︎ 1h19
You leave Valence gently, cycling along the ViaRhôna, following the banks of the majestic river almost uninterrupted to the riverside town of Tain-l’Hermitage, home of fine wines (Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage) and Valrhona chocolate. The Chocolate Museum will captivate young visitors, revealing all the secrets of chocolate making — with tasting, of course.
Then, just across from Tain-l’Hermitage, you arrive at Tournon-sur-Rhône. Dominated by its castle, the old town is full of character.
Day 3: Tournon-sur-Rhône – Le Cheylard
25 km | +310 m | ⏱︎ 2h02
In the morning, board a colourful heritage train: this vintage industrial-era train will take you to Lamastre, a village in the heart of the Vivarais mountains. Lamastre is also the starting point of the Dolce Via, a greenway built on an old railway. It gently guides you to Le Cheylard, nestled at the bottom of the Eyrieux Valley, through pristine natural landscapes.
In Le Cheylard, you will discover a lively town where both young and old can marvel! Jewellery enthusiasts will enjoy the “Maison du Bijou”, showcasing local craftsmanship. The highlight remains the medieval castle: perched on a rocky outcrop, this 13th-century fortress offers a genuine step back into the Middle Ages. Children will love exploring the towers and ramparts and imagining the knights who once guarded the fortress. From its heights, enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the valley.
💡 By opting for an extra night in Le Cheylard (see booking form), you can choose to take a rest day (swimming spots are nearby!) or cycle another branch of the Dolce Via to a swimming area (round trip).
Day 4: Le Cheylard – Les Ollières-sur-Eyrieux
30 km | +60 m | ⏱︎ 1h42
Today, you descend the Dolce Via through a spectacular landscape. Enjoy splendid views over the Eyrieux Valley from viaducts and natural viewpoints. There are also swimming opportunities along the way.
Day 5: Les Ollières-sur-Eyrieux – Soyons
30 km | +90 m | ⏱︎ 1h53
Your ride along the Dolce Via continues through the wild Eyrieux Valley. Between orchards, cliffs, and old mills, the landscape tells an industrial and agricultural story. You then reach the banks of the majestic Rhône again, heading towards the village of Soyons. On the way, don’t miss a stop at Beauchastel, a picturesque medieval village with cobbled streets.
Day 6: Soyons – Valence
11 km | +30 m | ⏱︎ 0h50
This final short stage brings you back early to Valence, where your luggage will be waiting. Congratulations, you have completed your Ardèche loop! You can either start your journey home or opt for an extra night in Valence.
ACCOMMODATION
For families, we prioritise authentic, small-scale accommodation, either in guesthouses or hotels offering a courtyard, garden and/or swimming pool so the whole family can enjoy them. We also ensure they are well-located: easily accessible by bike and close to amenities and points of interest.
AVAILABLE COMFORT LEVEL(S)
2/3 ★ Hotels or equivalent guesthouses
Simple yet welcoming accommodation, chosen for their hospitality and location.
Photo provided as an example to illustrate the type of accommodation in this category.
Always included:
- Breakfast
- Private bathroom
- Bike storage
- Option(s) to eat on-site or nearby
- Convenient location
BIKE CHOICES
Whether you choose a rental bike or bring your own, it is essential to have a bike suitable for both the route and your personal needs.
RENTAL BIKES
We offer trekking bikes and/or electric bikes of good quality, equipped with all essential accessories. Child trailers are also available.
Trekking Bikes
Bergamont Horizon 3 bikes (or equivalent): versatile bikes with 24 gears, ideal for tackling a few hills with ease.
Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)
Various models (MATRA I-Step Cross Confort D9, KALKHOFF Endeavour, or equivalent) equipped with a battery of at least 500 Wh. You can expect a range of at least 60 kilometres with comfort.
Children's Bikes
For children who have not yet reached adult size, it is possible to rent children’s bikes. Bikes by Winora in various sizes are available.
Child Trailers
The route is also suitable for child trailers, which we offer for rental (subject to availability). Each trailer can accommodate up to 2 young children.
Photos for information only. Bikes subject to availability.
Included accessories:
- Smartphone holder (1 per bike)
- Waterproof rear bag
- Small handlebar bag
- Lock
- Repair kit
- Helmet(s) on request
IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN BIKE
Before departure, check your bike thoroughly: brakes, tyres, gears, derailleur, chain…
You may be far from help in case of mechanical issues!
Which bikes are suitable?
- Hybrid (trekking) bike
- Mountain bike
- Gravel bike
- E-bike with sufficient range
- Road bike
- City bike
💡 Since the Dolce Via includes compact gravel sections, avoid tyres that are too thin or too smooth.
LEVEL
Our trips prioritise discovery and relaxation before exertion.
We endeavour to adjust the length of each stage according to the terrain, type of paths, and points of interest, so that every day remains balanced, enjoyable, and open to the unexpected.
STAGE LENGTH:
VERY RELAXED ℹ️
➡️ Overall average 20–30 km per day, never exceeding 35 km in a single day.
➡️ An ideal pace for families with children who have not yet covered long distances by bike.
RELIEF:
EASY ℹ️
➡️ Average overall elevation gain: less than 200 m per day.
➡️ The route is generally quite flat and accessible to all. Depending on the location, a gentle hill or two may appear, but they should not be a barrier, even without prior training.
TYPE OF PATHS:
Over 80% of the route is on greenways. The rest of the time, you will travel on small country roads with little or no traffic. More than 60% of the route is paved, but the Dolce Via is often compact gravel. Thin road-bike tyres should therefore be avoided. No technical difficulties to report.
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
⏱️ DURATION
6 days and 5 nights, including 5 days of cycling.
📅 POSSIBLE DEPARTURE DAYS
From early June to 5 July and 29–31 August: every Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
From 6 July to 28 August: every day except Thursday.
💡 The departure day is the arrival day on site. The first cycling stage takes place the following day.
🗺️ ROUTE TYPE
Loop tour. At the end of the route, you return to your starting point.
📍 START AND FINISH POINT
Start of trip: Valence
End of trip: Valence
🌦️ WHEN TO GO?
This route is offered only between June and August (the Ardèche train runs very little outside this period).
Sunshine is generally good during this period thanks to the Mediterranean influence and the presence of the famous mistral wind, which clears the sky. This often dry and sometimes strong wind sweeps the Rhône valley. Its effect is weaker on higher terrain.
In summer, heat is rarely extreme, except in the Rhône valley where it can sometimes be very hot under high-pressure conditions. Fortunately, cycling along the river requires little effort, but it’s best to start early to enjoy the cooler morning temperatures.
🍽️ MEALS
Breakfasts are included.
Lunches and dinners are at your discretion (except 2 dinners which are included).
During the day, you can eat at local restaurants (you will find suggestions in our roadbook) or have a picnic using local shops for supplies.
💡 In the evening, there will always be at least one restaurant within walking distance of your accommodation… if there isn’t one in the hotel already!
🧳 LUGGAGE TRANSPORT
Your luggage is transported between accommodations by one of our partners. You only carry your day pack during cycling stages. A pannier is provided with the rental bike.
💡 1 bag, max. 20 kg per traveller
If you prefer to carry your luggage in side panniers, you will benefit from a discount.
🚩 ARRIVING ON SITE
BY TRAIN
Valence is very well served by high-speed trains TGV and Ouigo.
Direct lines from:
💡The Valence TGV station is outside the city; a short TER train ride quickly reaches Valence-Ville station.
BY CAR
Whether you rent a bike or not, you can park your car for free at the bike rental shop’s parking throughout your trip (just outside the centre).
Several options exist in the town centre to park your car for multiple days.
Free public car parks:
- Parc des Expositions car park (382 spaces): 16 Av. Georges Clemenceau
- Dunkerque car park (288 spaces): place de Dunkerque
Several covered (paid) car parks are also available in the centre.
📑 TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
To help you fully enjoy your adventure, we provide practical and easy-to-use materials:
A roadbook (A5 booklet) written by us, including:
- Practical information
- Route description
- All necessary tourist information
- Restaurant suggestions
- Supply points
- Swimming spots
- Cultural tips and anecdotes
- A list of nearby bike repairers along the route
A printed route map
Our navigation app (with your GPS tracks)
- Easy-to-use app (a short tutorial will be sent if needed)
- Satellite navigation (works in airplane mode)
- Customised tracks between each accommodation
- Voice guidance
📞 INDEPENDENCE AND SUPPORT
You travel independently (unaccompanied), with 7/7 telephone assistance in case of problems.
🛡️ INSURANCE
To ensure reimbursement in case of trip cancellation or on-site issues, you can take out cancellation insurance (CAP Explorer Cancellation) or assistance (CAP Explorer Assistance). Learn more about insurance.
🎒 EQUIPMENT TO BRING
A helmet, lock, repair kit, phone holder, and waterproof rear pannier are the basic equipment. If you rented a bike, these are included (helmet only on request).
For extra comfort, we also recommend bringing the following specific accessories:
Rain trousers
Lightweight, waterproof, windproof and easy to put on; protects against rain, splashes and mud. Some models have gaiters that cover shoes as well.
Power bank
Useful for charging your phone during lunch: navigation consumes a lot of energy, even in airplane mode. Recommended unless your battery is very strong.
Estimate €10–20.
Padded cycling shorts or gel saddle cover
Padded shorts improve comfort by absorbing shocks and reducing friction on long rides. Otherwise, opt for a padded saddle cover.
Water bottle
More practical and durable than disposable bottles. Some keep water cool for several hours thanks to a double-wall design.
Buff / neck warmer / beanie
Outside summer, mornings can be chilly, so you’ll be glad you brought these!
PRICES 2026
The price is calculated based on a room for 2 people. All rates are per person and subject to availability of the chosen room type.
| Option | Low season | High season |
|---|---|---|
| Double/twin room | €729 | €769 |
| Single room supplement | + €280 | + €290 |
|
Child discounts (* in the same room as 2 full-paying adults) |
0–3 years: -80% | 4–11 years: -40% | 12–17 years: -30% | |
| Group discount | 6–11 people: -5% | 12+ people: -10% | |
| Extra nights (optional) | Low season | High season | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Le Cheylard | Double/twin room | €70 | €70 |
| Single room | €125 | €125 | |
| Valence | Double/twin room | €70 | €70 |
| Single room | €125 | €125 | |
💡 SEASONS
- Low season: 1/6 - 30/6
- High season: 1/7 - 31/8
| BIKE RENTAL (equipment included) | |
|---|---|
| Electric bike | €220 |
| Trekking bike | €130 |
| Child bike (-12 years) | €110 |
| Child trailer | €110 |
THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES
- Accommodation in hotel or guesthouse
- Breakfast at each accommodation
- 2 dinners
- Ticket for the Petit Train de l’Ardèche between Tournon and Lamastre (including bike ticket)
- Luggage transport between accommodations
- Detailed roadbook (A5 booklet + PDF), prepared by us during our scouting trip
- GPS tracks via our navigation app
- Route map
- Luggage tags
- 7/7 telephone assistance
- Tourist taxes
- Booking fees
OPTIONS
- Rental bike(s)
- Single room supplement
- Extra night(s) in Le Cheylard and/or Valence
- Optional insurance: cancellation and/or assistance
THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Round-trip travel to Valence
- Meals not mentioned above
- Entrance fees to tourist sites and other personal expenses
- Anything not listed under “THE BASE PRICE INCLUDES”
SPECIAL CASES
- If you carry your own luggage, a discount is applied (see booking form). An extra pannier is provided if you rent a bike.
- Solo travellers: a logistical supplement applies in addition to the single room supplement.
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