Cycling holiday on the Vélomaritime in the Bay of Somme and on the Opal Coast – 7 days
Between the Bay of Somme and the Opal Coast, this cycling holiday takes you to discover remarkable natural landscapes, charming seaside resorts, and villages steeped in history. Along the way, you'll cycle on the Vélomaritime and the Somme Valley cycle route, through marshes, salt meadows, dunes, and vast sandy beaches.
An ideal itinerary to enjoy a cycling trip in the heart of one of the most beautiful natural areas in northern France.
Day 1: Abbeville, Gateway to the Bay of Somme
Welcome to Abbeville, a town of art and history located at the gateway to the Bay of Somme. Settle into your hotel before setting off to explore this charming little town, perfect for a first stroll.
Don't miss:
- Saint-Vulfran Collegiate Church, a remarkable example of Flamboyant Gothic architecture the historic center and its ancient streets leading to the belfry
- the Bouvaque Park, a peaceful natural area comprised of ponds, meadows, and marshes
- This first day immerses you in the atmosphere of the Somme region and its landscapes, a blend of heritage and nature.
Day 2: From Abbeville to Saint-Valery-sur-Somme (45 km)
This first cycling leg quickly takes you onto the Somme Valley cycle route, a pleasant itinerary that follows the river through verdant landscapes. As the kilometers pass, you'll cycle along peaceful paths before arriving in Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, one of the most beautiful villages in the Bay of Somme. This medieval town charms visitors with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and lively harbor. In the afternoon, continue your bike ride towards the Pointe du Hourdel, an exceptional natural site where the famous seals of the Bay of Somme live. With a bit of luck, you might spot them resting on the sandbanks at low tide.
Return to Saint-Valery through the countryside.
Day 3: From Saint-Valery-sur-Somme to Le Crotoy (45 km)
Today, you'll cycle along the Vélomaritime, one of the major cycling routes along the French coast. Leaving Saint-Valery via the marina, you'll follow the Bay of Somme and cross the salt marshes where sheep graze, typical of this unique maritime landscape. The route then veers slightly inland to reach Rue, a small town steeped in history whose belfry is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take the opportunity to discover the Chapelle du Saint-Esprit, a magnificent Gothic building. Before reaching Le Crotoy, you'll cross vast marshes teeming with birds and sometimes home to the famous Scottish Highland cattle of the salt marshes.
Your stop for the evening, Le Crotoy, is a charming seaside resort renowned for its beach and the lights illuminating the bay.
Day 4: Cycling loop around Le Crotoy (40 km)
This day offers a cycling loop around Le Crotoy, ideal for exploring the hinterland of the Bay of Somme. After admiring the panoramic views of the bay, you'll leave the coastline and head towards the Crécy Forest, one of the largest forest massifs in northern France. The route then winds through a peaceful countryside dotted with typical villages, churches, castles, and dovecotes. A varied day combining nature, heritage, and rural landscapes.
Return to Le Crotoy at the end of the day.
Day 5: From Le Crotoy to Berck-sur-Mer (50 km)
Today, you leave the Bay of Somme and head towards the Opal Coast, famous for its long beaches and wild dunes. Along the way, you can stop at the Marquenterre Park, one of Europe's most renowned bird sanctuaries, ideal for observing migratory birds. The route then continues towards Quend-Plage and Fort-Mahon-Plage, two seaside resorts bordered by dunes and vast sandy beaches. You finally arrive in Berck-sur-Mer, famous for its immense beach and the many kites and land yachts that enliven the coastline.
Day 6: From Berck-sur-Mer to Étaples (40 km) | Return by train to Abbeville
For this last day of cycling, you continue along the Vélomaritime cycle route. You pass through Merlimont and Merlimont-Plage, two small, peaceful seaside resorts. Then you reach Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, an elegant resort nicknamed the pearl of the Opal Coast. Take some time to stop and discover its typical villas, wide beaches, and pine forests. The stage ends in Étaples, a charming port town located on the Canche estuary. In the late afternoon, return by train to Abbeville.
Day 7: Abbeville
End of your cycling holiday in the Bay of Somme and along the Opal Coast after breakfast. You can extend your trip by booking one or more extra nights to enjoy more of Abbeville and the landscapes of the Bay of Somme.
