Family cycle holiday on the Velodyssey: Arcachon to Bayonne
This cycle holiday on the Velodyssey itinerary offers short daily distances especially thought for families, wanting to travel an active holiday with young children.
- Atlantic Coast
- 8 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 33 km/day
- Itinerant
This trip along the Vélodyssée offers short stops between Arcachon and Bayonne to enjoy this superb cycling route with the family, young children included.
The Southern part of the Velodyssey cycle route is ideal for an cycling holiday with the family. From Arcachon to Bayonne, or said differently from the Bordeaux region to the Basque country, you cycle on a secure bicycle path, on flat terrain almost all the way, except after Biscarrosse where a short stage has some gentle slopes, to avoid rushing traffic.
Our holiday starts in Arcachon, not to be missed for its location on the basin, but foremost because the dune of Pilat, the highest sand dune in Europe, is rising nearby. You cycle further through the forests of the Landes country where the scent of the pine trees will delight you. Cycling along the Atlantic also has the advantage of offering many opportunities for a dip in the ocean, that the whole family will enjoy. You end your trip at the entrance of the Basque country In Bayonne, an historic town on the shore of the Adour river.
The South West of France is known for the warm welcome of its inhabitants and their relaxed attitude, not to forget its delicious gastronomy.
Program
Free time of arrival in Arcachon.
You can check in at your accommodation during reception hours. Visit the town at your own pace.
- 33 km
- + 199 m
Cycle along the Arcachon basin to reach the highest dune in Europe: the Dune of Pilat. Leave your bicycle at the bottom and climb the dune to enjoy the magical panorama over the blue waters of the ocean and the sandbanks. Take your bike to continue your journey in the heart of the Landes forest and along the beaches of the region.
- 17 km
This short stage takes you to the original town of Biscarrosse on the cycle path which sways on the dunes through the forest. You reach the nice beach of Magide on Cazaux lake where you can swin in calm waters, and ride further along a canal to Biscarrosse ville.
- 40 km
You cycle further to Mimizan Plage. The bike path runs parallel to the road until Parentis en Born and then heads towards the lakes, which are good spots for a break on their small beaches. At the end of the day, you ride past the beautiful lake of Aureilhan to finally reach the lively sea resort of Mimizan Plage.
- 54 km
Enjoy an exceptional panorama on cycle paths in the shade of the maritime pines. You continue your route in the forest and along the beaches. Enjoy swimming and the long sandy beaches (such as the beach of Cap de l'Homy). You finish your journey not far from the lagoon of Léon.
- 25 km
Make a small detour through the typical town center of Moliets-et-Maa and then continue on the bicycle path of the Vélodyssée. You will reach Vieux-Boucau and its magnificent marine lake. You are gradually entering the south of the Landes, the surfers' paradise. The end of your stage of the day will be the port of Capbreton. Don't miss a walk on the pier to admire the setting sun before choosing a terrace for dinner on the port.
- 30 km
You leave the Landes area and go through the pine and cork oak forests. You arrive in the city of Bayonne, the entrance of the "Pays Basque". Take your time to discover this beautiful and typical city located along the river Adour.
Accommodation
Information
Start 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 the accommodation know if you are arriving late.
To get to the departure point
By plane: flight to Bordeaux-Mérignac, then the regional train to Arcachon.
By train: TGV’s go all the way to Bordeaux Saint-Jean, then you need to switch to the regional train to Arcachon. To plan your trip : https://www.thetrainline.com
Car park
If you choose to drive, you can park your car for free in the streets of Arcachon. It’s quite safe in the streets around the Place de Verdun, as the police station is on the corner.
To get back to the starting point
Train: regional trains between Bayonne and Arcachon are without reservation and take bicycles without extra charge (if you are traveling with your own bicycles). You can buy tickets in the train station or online. To plan your trip: https://www.thetrainline.com
- Atlantic Coast
- 8 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 33 km/day
- Itinerant
Tried and tested stays!
- Experience15 years' experience in cycling to advise and satisfy you
- Tested & ApprovedThe whole team goes out into the field to design the itineraries and select the best partners (accommodation, bikes, etc.).
- Quality of serviceA dedicated customer service team available and ready to listen, from the moment you book until you return from your holiday.
- Secure paymentIndividual or fractional payment by secure means via our website
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- Atlantic Coast
- Easy
- ~ 33 km/day
- Itinerant