The Vélodyssée, the Atlantic in freewheel!
Want to cycle near the Atlantic coast? The Vélodyssée map route, 1,200 km between Roscoff and Hendaye, allows all types of people to cycle along the Atlantic coast, through natural landscapes and diverse heritage sites. It’s one of the most enjoyable cycling routes in France.
The cycle route from Roscoff to Hendaye on the Vélodyssée and EuroVelo 1
The Vélodyssée is one of the longest and most beautiful cycling routes in France. This iconic 1,200 km route connects Roscoff, in Bretagne, to Hendaye, on the Spanish border. It allows you to discover the entire Atlantic coast by bike, on a route suitable for everyone, including families.
Nearly 80% of the route is on car-free roads; on the map of France, it’s the perfect Atlantic cycling route for your first leisurely cycling trip. It is part of the Atlantic Coast Route, EuroVelo 1, a European route that connects the North Cape in Norway to southern Portugal.
The must-see sites along the Vélodyssée
By choosing the Vélodyssée route for your next bike ride in France, you’ll cross several regions. Here are some must-see sites:
- Roscoff : the pretty Breton port and historic starting point.
- Nantes-Brest Canal : a peaceful route between nature and river heritage.
- Nantes : the cultural capital of the West with its Machines de l’Île (Island Machines) and its castle.
- The beaches of Vendée : an ideal section of the Atlantic cycling route for sea and nature lovers.
- The Marais Poitevin : also known as the Green Venice, a unique natural area to explore by bike.
- La Rochelle : the port city with a rich heritage.
- Arcachon Bay: an exceptional natural site with the famous Dune du Pilat.
- The Landes coast : vast beaches and a pine forest as far as the eye can see.
- The Basque Country : between authentic atmosphere and landscapes before arriving in Hendaye.
You can also take a detour to the various islands along your route: Noirmoutier Island, Yeu Island, Ré Island, Aix Island, Oléron Island.
Our ideas for cycling holidays on the Vélodyssée
The Vélodyssée route can be completed in its entirety or in sections, depending on your level of experience and the time available. There is no standard duration for completing the entire route: it all depends on your pace and the number of kilometers you wish to cover each day.
If you'd like to organize your own trip on the Vélodyssée, you can also contact BicyBAGS to facilitate the logistics of your cycling trip:
- One-way Vélodyssée bike rental
- Baggage transfer from one stage to the next
- Passenger transport with or without bikes
👉 The BicyBAGS website
Bicycle routes connected to the Vélodyssée
The Vélodyssée map intersects or connects with several other major cycling routes in France. These connections allow you to extend or adapt your bike ride according to your wishes. Main connected routes:
- EuroVelo 1: This 11,000 km European route connects Norway to Portugal, and the Vélodyssée forms the French section.
- The Loire by Bike: From Nantes, you can follow the cycle paths along the Loir-Atlantique to Nevers or Orléans.
- The Nantes-Brest Canal: A Breton river route that connects to the Vélodyssée between Carhaix and Nantes.
- The Canal des 2 Mers by Bike: In Royan, you can cross the Gironde and reach Bordeaux and then the Mediterranean.
Don’t hesitate to discover our complete selection of cycling maps and guides in France.
