5 days cycling on the Dolce Via
Discover the Dolce Via, a gentle and secure route in the heart of Ardèche. Between preserved landscapes, picturesque villages and wild nature, this stay promises escape and total disconnection.
- Rhone Alpes
- 5 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 28 km/day
- Loop
Family bike trip on the Dolce Via.
Discover the Dolce Via, an old railway line redeveloped into a cycle path which winds through the heart of the magnificent landscapes of Ardèche. This cycling trip invites you to cross green valleys, follow crystal clear rivers and explore authentic villages where time seems to have stood still. With its routes accessible to all, the Dolce Via is perfect for a getaway with family, friends or alone, combining the pleasure of sport and immersion in preserved nature. A gentle and soothing adventure, ideal for disconnecting and fully recharging your batteries.
Program
- 43 km
- + 476 m
Your cycling trip begins in Valence next to Jouvet Park. Before reaching the entrance to the Dolce Via, you will need to cycle on the ViaRhôna towards La Voulte-sur-Rhône. This is where the adventure really begins! Take advantage of the facilities of this beautiful track. Each turn is a new landscape to contemplate!
- 3 km
- + 257 m
I suggest one last walk today to go to the Eyrieux belvedere. I prefer to be honest, it’s a bit steep but it’s worth it! One last little effort!
- 12 km
- + 447 m
Here you are on a short signposted hiking route to go around Peyremourier, located in the neighboring town. A magnificent panoramic view awaits you up there over the Eyrieux valley.
- 6 km
- + 289 m
Here you are on a short hiking route (2h30) to go around the Trémouline. This hike is more suitable for families. It allows you to discover several hamlets and the unusual site of “Roches Blanches” (rock walls which have taken on particular shapes under the effect of erosion).
- 30 km
- + 253 m
After enjoying Les Ollières sur Eyrieux, the cycling adventure begins again! You leave in the direction of Le Cheylard, where you will spend your next night of stopover. The landscapes pass by you again, you will be able to observe abandoned factories when the region was very involved in industrialization. Remember to have your little sandwich in the morning! You can therefore take advantage of the picnic facilities all along the route.
- 20 km
- + 234 m
Departing from Le Cheylard, head today towards Lamastre to take the little Ardèche train! Mountainous landscape and winegrowing will be out for this stage! The little train is scheduled for the beginning of the afternoon, you will be able to explore the town of Lamastre and its surroundings before taking your seats on the steam train dating from the beginning of the 20th century!
- 4 km
- + 42 m
One last little effort! Once you get off the train, take a leisurely stroll towards Tournon-sur-Rhône. Enjoy the restaurants along the Rhône and the entertainment in the town's streets. You can also admire the vineyards that surround both towns.
Take advantage of this day to discover the Gorges du Doux aboard an authentic steam train classified as a historical monument. Board the train at Lamastre station and set off to explore the Gorges du Doux and the Ardèche mountains. Halfway through, a 15-minute stop allows the steam locomotive to refuel. At the terminus, watch the locomotive turn around on the turntable.
- 26 km
- + 18 m
Last step! But before leaving, a little peace of chocolate? Discover how chocolate is made by the ValRhona chocolate factory, a world reference in the art of high-end chocolate. Then, say a final “goodbye” to the Dolce Via to head back towards Valencia on the prepared slopes of the ViaRhôna. A quiet and easy stage, perfect after a week of cycling which was nonetheless intense!
Enjoy a final stroll through the pretty city of Valence before heading back home.
Learn about the fascinating process of making chocolate ! You visit the historical site of the well-knowed Valrhona chocolaterie, where an exhibition shows to the public and professionals the backstage of the brand.
Accommodation Cyclist-friendly
Information
Beginning of the trip
As the first day is a non-biking day, you’ll arrive at your leisure, depending on your route. Please note that rooms are usually available by mid-afternoon, depending on your accommodation. Please let us know if you are arriving late.
To get to the departure point
By plane: Flight to Lyon or Montpellier, then take a regional or TGV train to Valence.
By train: Direct TGV trains from Paris, Gare de Lyon. The duration of the trip is about 3h. Plan your trip on, thetrainline.
Car park
If you come by car, you can park your vehicle in the Q PARK/Faventines secure car park. The price of parking is €14/4 days. There are also other car parks around the hotel and also close to Valence train station. We advise you to look on the PARKOPEDIA website for more details in your choice.
- Rhone Alpes
- 5 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 28 km/day
- Loop
Tried and tested Trips!
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Experience15 years' experience in cycling to advise and satisfy you
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Tested & ApprovedThe whole team goes out into the field to design the itineraries and select the best partners (accommodation, bikes, etc.).
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Quality of serviceA dedicated customer service team available and ready to listen, from the moment you book until you return from your holiday.
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Secure paymentIndividual or fractional payment by secure means via our website
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- Rhone Alpes
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