This 4-day bike trip is designed to be a short, accessible, and affordable adventure through relatively flat regions, making it ideal for travelers of all ages and fitness levels, including retirees. Each day covers a manageable distance of around 50 km, allowing plenty of time to explore charming towns, enjoy scenic landscapes, and relax along the way. The trip is budget-friendly, with a range of affordable accommodation and meal options available. To make it even more convenient, travelers can easily return to their starting point by train or ferry, adding flexibility to the itinerary while minimizing travel time and effort at the end of the journey.

The Normandy region of France offers a breathtaking combination of history, natural beauty, and culinary delights. This 4-day cycling itinerary covers approximately 50 km per day, taking you along the iconic D-Day beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and tranquil countryside. Highlights include stops at historic sites like Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, along with opportunities to savor Normandy’s famous seafood and cider. Your adventure concludes with a train ride back to your starting point, providing a seamless and memorable experience.

Day 1: Bayeux to Arromanches-les-Bains

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Start in Bayeux, home to the famous Bayeux Tapestry.
    • Cycle to Arromanches-les-Bains, known for its historic Mulberry harbors.
    • Explore the D-Day Museum and enjoy views of the Gold Beach landing site.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Pommier (Bayeux)
    • Traditional Norman dishes like duck and cider. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Dinner: La Marine (Arromanches-les-Bains)
    • Fresh seafood with stunning seaside views. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel de la Marine (3-star, Arromanches-les-Bains)
      • Price: ~$140 USD per night.
      • A cozy beachfront hotel with historical charm.

Day 2: Arromanches-les-Bains to Omaha Beach

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle through scenic countryside to Omaha Beach, one of the most famous D-Day landing sites.
    • Visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, overlooking the beach.
  • Lunch Stop: Café du Port (Port-en-Bessin)
    • Light meals and seafood by the harbor. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: D-Day House (near Omaha Beach)
    • Simple yet hearty fare with a focus on local produce. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel Mercure Omaha Beach (4-star, near Port-en-Bessin)
      • Price: ~$160 USD per night.
      • A comfortable hotel with golf course views and modern amenities.

Day 3: Omaha Beach to Sainte-Mère-Église

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Ride to the historic town of Sainte-Mère-Église, pivotal during the D-Day invasion.
    • Visit the Airborne Museum, which commemorates the paratroopers who landed here.
  • Lunch Stop: Le Roosevelt (Utah Beach)
    • Excellent seafood with a historic ambiance. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Auberge John Steele (Sainte-Mère-Église)
    • Named after the famous paratrooper, offering classic Norman cuisine. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel du 6 Juin (3-star, Sainte-Mère-Église)
      • Price: ~$130 USD per night.
      • A charming and historically themed hotel.

Day 4: Sainte-Mère-Église to Bayeux (Return)

Distance: ~50 km cycling + train

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle through the Normandy countryside, passing farms and quaint villages.
    • Board a train back to Bayeux in the afternoon for a relaxing return.
  • Lunch Stop: La Crêperie des Halles (Carentan)
    • Delicious crêpes and cider in a rustic setting. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Return Journey:
    • Train from Carentan to Bayeux. Travel time is approximately 30 minutes. Train tickets cost around $15 USD per person.

Pricing Summary

  • Accommodation: $130–$160 USD per night, featuring beachfront stays and historic settings.
  • Meals: $20–$30 USD per person per meal, with an emphasis on Normandy’s famous seafood and cider.
  • Attractions: Free to visit many historical sites; museum entries cost $10–$15 USD.
  • Return Train Ride: Approximately $15 USD per person.

Estimated Total: $850–$1,000 USD per person for the 4-day trip, covering accommodations, meals, and transportation.