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 Vélodyssée, France’s renowned Atlantic cycling route, offers a stunning combination of sandy beaches, pine forests, and charming seaside towns. Over four days, you’ll ride approximately 50 km per day, soaking in the coastal scenery and stopping to savor local seafood and regional delicacies. This itinerary highlights the region’s natural beauty, vibrant towns like La Rochelle and Rochefort, and ends with a convenient train journey back to your starting point.

Day 1: La Rochelle to Rochefort

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Start in La Rochelle, famous for its Old Port and medieval towers.
    • Cycle along the coast, passing salt marshes and oyster farms.
    • Arrive in Rochefort, a historic naval town with the impressive Corderie Royale.
  • Lunch Stop: Le P’tit Bleu (La Rochelle)
    • Fresh seafood with waterfront views. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Les Quatre Saisons (Rochefort)
    • Elegant dining with local specialties. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel Caravelle (3-star, Rochefort)
      • Price: ~$120 USD per night.
      • A cozy hotel near the town center.

Day 2: Rochefort to Royan

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Ride through pine forests and dunes to Royan, a lively seaside resort.
    • Explore the modernist architecture of the Notre-Dame Church and relax on sandy beaches.
  • Lunch Stop: Auberge de l’Écluse (near Marennes)
    • Rustic charm with hearty French cuisine. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Le Mogador (Royan)
    • Beachfront dining with Mediterranean flavors. Approx. $30 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel Les Embruns (3-star, Royan)
      • Price: ~$140 USD per night.
      • Modern rooms with ocean views.

Day 3: Royan to Montalivet-les-Bains

Distance: ~50 km

  • Highlights:
    • Take a short ferry ride across the Gironde Estuary to Le Verdon-sur-Mer.
    • Cycle through pine forests and vineyards to Montalivet-les-Bains, known for its sandy beaches and vibrant market.
  • Lunch Stop: Chez Pop’s (Le Verdon-sur-Mer)
    • Simple, fresh seafood. Approx. $20 USD per person.
  • Dinner: Le Marin (Montalivet-les-Bains)
    • Local specialties and casual seaside dining. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Accommodation:
    • Hôtel Les Vagues (3-star, Montalivet-les-Bains)
      • Price: ~$130 USD per night.
      • A comfortable hotel near the beach.

Day 4: Montalivet-les-Bains to La Rochelle (Return)

Distance: ~50 km cycling + train

  • Highlights:
    • Cycle along scenic paths through vineyards and forested trails to Soulac-sur-Mer.
    • Board a train back to La Rochelle, enjoying the journey through the countryside.
  • Lunch Stop: La Table du Marché (Soulac-sur-Mer)
    • Fresh produce and traditional dishes. Approx. $25 USD per person.
  • Return Journey:
    • Train from Soulac-sur-Mer to La Rochelle. Travel time is approximately 2.5 hours. Train tickets cost around $20 USD per person.

Pricing Summary

  • Accommodation: $120–$140 USD per night, offering a mix of cozy and modern seaside stays.
  • Meals: $20–$30 USD per person per meal, highlighting fresh seafood and regional dishes.
  • Attractions: Free to explore beaches and natural scenery; optional museum entries cost $10–$15 USD.
  • Ferry Ride: Included with cycling route; no additional cost.
  • Return Train Ride: Approximately $20 USD per person.

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