This trip follows much of the Tour de Gironde by bike, a secure cycling loop that lets you discover the must-see sights of the Gironde region at your own pace, on two wheels. It will appeal to wine connoisseurs as well as lovers of heritage, nature, and swimming. There's something for everyone!
Gironde is home to a wealth of treasures, both natural and man-made. From the Gironde Estuary to the quays of Bordeaux, from the vineyards of Blaye to those of the Médoc, from the Atlantic coast to the Garonne Canal, not to mention the Arcachon Bay and the Dune of Pilat — this exceptional region is full of delightful surprises.
You’ll love
Exploring the vineyards of the Entre-deux-Mers, St Emilion and Sauternes
Visiting the Abbey of Sauve-Majeure and the Bird Reserve at Le Teich
Bordeaux marks the starting point of this cycling tour through the Gironde region. This French city is considered one of the most bike-friendly in the country. Numerous cycle paths allow you to explore the city with ease. You’ll pedal through the districts of Chartrons, Grosse Cloche, and the Pey-Berland Tower, and ride along the quays bordering the Garonne River, all the way to the unmissable Cité du Vin.
Dinner at your leisure and night in a 2* hotel in the heart of Bordeaux.
D2
Ride from Bordeaux to St Emilion
58 km stage -low elevation- estimated time about 4hrs 30.
The Greenway (Voie Verte) heads out from Bordeaux towards Saint Emilion in the heart of the ‘Entre-deux-Mers’ area south-east of Bordeaux. You cycle along the route of a former railroad past a string of attractively repurposed stations. Along the way, a visit to Sauve-Majeure Abbey, a Romanesque masterpiece completed in 1079, is a must. It is situated on the pilgrim’s road - the Chemin de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle (Way of St James).
Carefully tended vineyards mark the approach to Saint Emilion whose wines enjoy worldwide renown.
Your accommodation is in the heart of the mediaeval borough.
Dinner at your leisure and night in a guesthouse in the centre of the medieval village.
D3
Ride from St Emilion to Fontet
55 km stage -low elevation- about 4hrs30
Your cycling tour of the Gironde continues. This 55 km stage links the famous wine town of Saint-Émilion to La Réole. This town, designated a "Town of Art and History", will charm heritage enthusiasts. The medieval city overlooks the Garonne and the valley below. You’ll then follow the riverbanks towards your delightful accommodation.
Dinner and night in charming guest rooms with a large garden and swimming pool.
D4
Ride from Fontet to Villandraut
50 km stage – low elevation – about 4hrs (+ 15 km optional Sauternes + 15 km optional Château de Roquetaillade).
Today, you’ll cycle along the banks of the Garonne Canal and enjoy the peaceful countryside atmosphere. Along the way, we suggest a stop in Sauternes for a tasting of the famous sweet wine, as well as a visit to the Château de Roquetaillade, ranked among the 10 most beautiful fortified castles in France.
In the southern Gironde, take time to wander through Bazas, a town full of southwest French charm, with its arcaded square and the UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
Dinner at your leisure and night in a charming guesthouse.
D5
Ride from Villandraut to Salles
50 km stage – low elevation – about 4hrs
Today, you will cycle through the Landes de Gascogne Natural Regional Park. Nestled within this maritime pine forest lies the small town of Hostens. We recommend stopping here for a picnic by its lakes, known for their lovely white sandy beaches.
Dinner at your leisure and night in a 3* hotel or similar.
D6
Ride from Salles to Andernos/Arès
45 km stage – low elevation – About 4hrs
Gradually, the scent of pine gives way to salty sea air as you approach the Arcachon Bay. You’ve reached the ocean. The Teich Bird Reserve and the small oyster ports will immerse you in the natural heritage of the basin. Take your time to observe the local birdlife and enjoy some oysters – or perhaps a delicious ice cream!
Dinner at your leisure and night in a 3* hotel or similar.
D7
Ride from Andernos to Arcachon
24km + 11.5km stage – low elevation – about 3 hrs
Set off for a cycling escape to discover the wild end of the Cap Ferret peninsula. From Andernos, a charming town nestled between forest and bay, you will head towards the mythical “village at the end of the world.” Along the way, stop for a break on the ocean beaches. Towels and swimsuits are highly recommended!
An optional extension of 11.5 km takes you to the tip of the Cap, where the calm waters of the Bay meet the power of the Ocean.
In the afternoon, cross the bay by boat to reach Arcachon.
Dinner at your leisure and night in a 3* hotel.
D8
Departure from Arcachon
End of the trip after breakfast.
Enjoy a final stroll along Arcachon's beaches before taking the direct train back to Bordeaux.
Return journey from your home to the first accommodation of the trip
Underground parking in Bordeaux for the duration of the stay
Optional insurance
Caractéristiques techniques
Self-guided cycling tour
Type of route : Cycle paths, vineyard/agricultural tracks and quiet country roads
Type of bike required: mountain bikes
Organisation
These outings are much more about relaxed exploration than athletic performance. Your luggage is transported between stages and your roadbook will be your guide throughout your stay. We provide logistical and technical support as necessary.
Accommodations has been chosen for its atmosphere, warm welcome, and environmental and architectural excellence.
Some of the stages of the tour are offered without evening meals. At these stages, the possibilities for restoration are numerous and diverse.
N.B: the accommodation described above is indicative and may be modified according to availability at the time of the final reservation
Access
By car
Several highways serve the city.
By air
Bordeaux Mérignac Airport
By train
Bordeaux train station
Comments
Global note
4.7
A superb experience that enabled us to discover a beautiful region between land and sea, with facilities that lived up to our expectations.
translated from french
Thanks to Safrantours for this week on the slopes of the Gironde. A pleasant and well thought-out tour. Top team! We'll be going again. (translated from french).
Très bon séjour, itinéraires bien étudiés et dans l'ensemble, conforme à nos attentes. Safrantours est une valeur sûre.
The Gironde possesses one of the finest cyclepath networks in France. You can go all the way round the Arcachon basin with the Eurovelo1, which is a sure temptation to do just that!
You'll see grand Atlantic beaches, wild and free, which…
A very special encounter with the unique beauty of the French Atlantic coast. On the first day, you cycle along the latter from Royan to Talmont, with lots of little bays where you can take a dip. On day two a superb cycle track leads you along the…