Atlantic Coast Cycle - La Rochelle to Bordeaux

On arrival in La Rochelle, check-in at your hotel. La Rochelle is the capital of Charente-Maritime and is famous for its well-preserved history and architecture, including the iconic medieval towers that once protected its port. It is vibrant and full of character, and known for its mild climate. Discover the lively Vieux Port full of outdoor cafes, busy shopping streets and many town monuments.

As the famous towers of La Rochelle fade from view, a cycle path takes you to the Port of Minimes, the largest marina in France for pleasure boats, and on to the Cove of Godechaud, right next to the sea. Soon after you reach the delightful Bay of Châtelaillon, a pleasant stopping point. Later there is a pretty seaside section before the route heads inland. Cycle through farmland before you reach the remarkable town of Rochefort, a real highlight. 305m/1000ft ascent, 223m/731ft descent

Leaving behind Rochefort, with its gardens on the banks of the Charente and its transporter bridge of Martrou, you take the former steam-train tracks – now a greenway. Here 'La Velodyssee' meets the marshes, criss-crossed with little channels, before heading onto the oyster centre of Marennes. The Marennes Country, home to the leading oyster farms in Europe, spreads over salt marshes and the Seudre estuary. The end of this stage is La Tremblade, an authentic village. In summer, the sea festival is a must: traditional boats, an oyster opening competition, giant eclades (mussels cooked under pine needles set alight) and fireworks! 88m/288ft ascent, 96m/315ft descent

You start today along the famous 'Côte Sauvage' (wild coast). Here cycle paths are numerous and a truly memorable part of the route takes you through the forest of Coubre (and past its lighthouse "Phare de la Coubre"). Enjoy splendid sea views as you pedal along the coast. Following cycle lanes, the itinerary weaves through the coastal forest and an array of pretty beaches, one of which is the charming village of Saint-Palais, before reaching the sandy beaches of Royan. All you have to do is to enjoy this seaside resort and catch a boat tomorrow morning! 124m/409ft ascent, 118m/387ft descent

A short ferry (bac) ride takes you across the estuary of the Gironde to the region of Medoc, famous for its great wines. Upon entering the Gironde, a new world reveals itself. Pleasant cycle lanes wind their way from Verdon to the charming Soulac-sur-Mer with its lively streets and pretty seaside villas. Continue towards Montalivet where the sea entices for a cooling dip... Then head south to Hourtin, along a forested trail which is most pleasant in warmer weather. Hourtin is located on the edge of the largest freshwater lake in France, Lac d'Hourtin. Note: The ferry crossing from Royan to Le Verdon takes around 20-25 minutes. Tickets can be purchased on site before boarding. Also note: While your luggage is transferred between the hotels and the ferry pier, you need to carry your luggage with you onboard the ferry. Some customers find it a bit challenging to board with bikes and luggage, so it's important to plan accordingly for a smoother experience. 138m/453ft ascent, 132m/433ft descent

Through a long forest trail, the route leaving Hourtin takes you to the banks of the estuary of the Gironde and the vineyards of Pauillac. It's a day to discover the natural diversity of the Medoc. End your cycling day through the most renowned international vineyards, where you stop in the prestigious village of Margaux, land of “Grands Crus”. 227m/745ft ascent, 230m/755ft descent

For your last day on the bike, pedal from the prestigious “Chateau Margaux” and cross the vineyards until you reach the gates of Bordeaux. Enter the beautiful old centre, cross the city along the banks of the Garonne, and end your adventure on the famous “Place de la Bourse”. In Bordeaux, the old town is closed to cars and is ideal for walking. Discover the medieval streets and the magnificent white stone buildings. 258m/846ft ascent, 267m/876ft descent