France – Best of Normandy Bike Tour

Best of Normandy self-guided bike tour: Arriving this afternoon gives you an excellent chance to check in and explore the historic town of Bayeux before your 5 PM orientation and welcome meeting. Highlights include the beautifully preserved cathedral and the renowned Bayeux Tapestry. As the Allied headquarters shortly after the landings, Bayeux was spared from bombing, ensuring its remarkable preservation for visitors today.

Meals: on own
Highlights: Bayeux tapestry & exploration, welcome orientation
Overnight: Bayeux

Begin your day cycling east toward Courseulles and the historic Juno Beach. Pause for reflection at the tranquil Canadian Cemetery before heading west along the coast, passing Gold Beach. Along the way, visit Arromanches and its impressive Mulberry artificial harbor, a remarkable feat of engineering. Continue to the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer before returning to Bayeux via the picturesque Aure Valley. For a longer ride, start your journey with a visit to the iconic Pegasus Bridge, adding even more depth to your day of exploration!

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 52 or 88 km / 32 or 39 miles, Long ride: +/-516 meters, Short ride: +/- 356 meters
Highlights: coastal riding, Juno Beach, Gold Beach, German battery, Aure valley
Overnight: Bayeux

This morning, embark on a scenic ride through the idyllic countryside to the historic Omaha Beach and the deeply moving American War Cemetery. For a longer route, continue to Pointe du Hoc, Grandcamp, and the German Cemetery at La Cambe. Alternatively, head south through the marshlands toward Saint-Lô, a city that endured relentless bombing and fierce battles during the Battle of Normandy. It took American soldiers nearly three weeks to secure the area from the coast to Saint-Lô. The route offers a captivating mix of “bocage” and woodland scenery, with the chance to explore the magnificent Château de Balleroy conveniently located halfway along the way.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 50, 64 or 95 km /32, 40 or 59 miles
Highlights: country riding, Omaha Beach, cemeteries & historical stops
Overnight: Mercure Saint-Lô

Today’s stage is likely the most demanding of your journey. Your ride begins along the Vire River before heading into the heart of the Bocage Normand—a unique and picturesque landscape characterized by rolling hills, natural hedgerows, and fields dotted with grazing cows, apple orchards, isolated farms, and winding creeks. While this beautiful terrain posed significant challenges to the Allies during World War II due to its dense hedgerows, it now offers a serene and authentic countryside experience.

You’ll encounter few tourists along this route, but you’ll pass through quaint villages where you can pause for a refreshing drink or snack. As you near the end of the ride, the landscape shifts, and you’ll arrive at the coast about 15 kilometers north of Granville. Along the shoreline, you’ll have the chance to witness the fascinating work of local “sea farmers,” a unique and memorable sight to cap off this demanding yet highly rewarding day.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 64 km / 40 miles, +/- 475 meters
Highlights: Bocage Normand, picturesque countryside & villages
Overnight: Granville

Today’s route takes you inland through rolling hills to the beautifully preserved Abbey of La Lucerne, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture with an enchanting setting amidst woods and meadows. As the coastal road veers south, you’ll continue westward to uncover the serene bay near Saint-Jean-le-Thomas, a picturesque spot offering stunning views of Mont Saint-Michel in the distance.

From there, you’ll follow the bay to the dramatic south headland of Le Grouin, known for its sweeping coastal vistas. Your journey concludes in Avranches, a town rich in cultural landmarks. Explore the Scriptorial d’Avranches Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of manuscripts from Mont Saint-Michel. Wander the historic streets to discover the Saint-Gervais Basilica, home to the reliquary of Saint Aubert, the legendary founder of Mont Saint-Michel. These treasures make Avranches a captivating destination to round off your day.

Meals: breakfast, dinner
Distance: 51 or 62 km / 32 or 39 miles, +461 meters / – 362 meters
Highlights: Abbey of La Lucerne, Saint-Jean-le-Thomas, Grouin, historical Avranches
Overnight: Avranches

Today is dedicated to one of the most iconic and awe-inspiring landmarks in France: Mont-Saint-Michel, its stunning Abbey, and the breathtaking bay that surrounds it. Your adventure begins with an exhilarating downhill ride from Avranches, offering lovely views as you approach the bay. Along the way, you’ll pedal through charming countryside, pass herds of sheep grazing on reclaimed salt meadows, and visit the German War Memorial at Huisnes-sur-Mer, a solemn and reflective stop.

Upon arrival at Mont-Saint-Michel, park your bike in the designated area and set off on foot to fully explore this remarkable “town island.” With its steep streets, medieval charm, and architectural wonders, the Mont demands at least 3 hours to take it all in—culminating in the spectacular Abbey, perched high above the water.

As evening falls, prepare for an extraordinary sight: the Mont-Saint-Michel illuminated against the night sky. It’s a magical experience and a highlight of your journey that will stay with you forever.

Note: we have lodging recommendations tonight for a more authentic and peaceful experience – ask us!

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 38 or 57 km / 24 or 35 miles, Long route: 57km +412 meters / – 510 meters
Highlights: countryside riding, Mont-Saint-Michel, Abbey, bay and war memorial
Overnight: Mont St Michel or nearby Pontorson

Your Best of Normandy self-guided bike tour concludes after a delightful breakfast this morning. Departure arrangements are on your own, and we sincerely hope you cherished every moment of cycling through the stunning landscapes and historic treasures of beautiful Normandy! Safe travels and thank you for joining us.

Meals: breakfast