The Vélodyssée, from La Rochelle to Royan via the Isle of Ré and the Isle of Oléron

Cycling trip between La Rochelle and Royan, on the Atlantic coast

Here you are on the famous cycle paths of the Vélodyssée ! Fully signposted route between La Rochelle and Royan. This circuit allows you to enjoy the islands and local curiosities and especially the benefits of the seaside on the Atlantic coast !

Main areas of interest during the stay :

• La Rochelle
• Ré Island and Oléron Island
• Rochefort
• The beaches of the Atlantic Coast

Day 1 - arrival in La Rochelle

Discover the historic Old Port and the iconic towers of La Rochelle, a vibrant tourist destination known for its charming downtown arcades. If you arrive early, consider exploring the towers at the Old Port or visiting the aquarium.

Overnight in La Rochelle.

Day 2 - Ile de Ré loop - 40 or 64 km

Today, you’ll head towards Île de Ré, also known as Ré la Blanche. The island is crisscrossed with bike paths, and you’ll take the Vélodyssée route to the bridge, which offers a free crossing. Once on the island, relax on the beaches, soak up the lively summer atmosphere, and explore charming villages like La Flotte or Saint-Martin. The loop to Saint Martin is 64 km or 40 km if you go to the Ile de Ré by boat from La Rochelle (not included). 

For those feeling more adventurous, continue on to La Couarde or even to the Whale Lighthouse at the island’s tip. The terrain is flat, with the only challenge being the climb onto the island’s access bridge.

Return and overnight in La Rochelle.

Day 3 - La Rochelle to Rochefort - 59 km

The Vélodyssée guides you to Châtelaillon-Plage and Pointe des Boucholeurs. Discover its 1900 summer houses, its casino and its beach. Take the cycle path to follow the coast. You will be able to see the squares and their large legs planted in the sand. Possibility to visit the Corderie Royale in Rochefort (in option).
Overnight in Rochefort.

Day 4 - Rochefort Marennes 38 km

Take the Vélodyssée in Tonnay Charente. You can take a ferry boat but it is also subject to the tides and seasons. Then follow the canals to the Brouage marshes and its fortified village.
Overnight in Marennes.

Day 5 - Ile d'Oléron discovery loop tour - 65 km

The captivating scent of the pines and their refreshing shade offer a unique coastal experience as you make your way towards the island of Oléron. You can take the cycle bridge or the ferry (optional). The island of Oléron and the Marennes Basin offer a remarkable diversity of beautiful beaches, unspoilt nature and delicious local cuisine. This is the end of the stage.

Oernight in Marennes.

Day 6 - Marennes to Royan - 47 km

Ride through the pine forests of the "Wild Coast" and pass by Palmyre, where you can stop to visit the famous zoo. Continue your journey through Saint-Palais, the beaches of Vaux-sur-Mer, Pontaillac, and the marina, before reaching Royan. This modern seaside town is known for its mix of Belle Époque villas, a unique covered market, and a vibrant, festive seafront.

Overnight in Royan.

Day 7 - Royan

After breakfast, your tour comes to the end. You have the option to extend your stay with an extra night in Royan or La Rochelle. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer or a train ticket back to La Rochelle.

General informations :

• 7 days and 6 nights
• Standard version : 3* hotels
• Comfort version: 3* and 4* hotels
• Child rates: contact us

The dates 2025:

Daily departure between April and October.

High season in July and August. 

Included :

• 6 nights with breakfast
• Tourist taxes
• Luggages transport
• Access to our GPS App
• Assistance in case of breakdown (except puncture) 7 days, 8:00an to 8:00pm.

Not included :

• Transport to the place of departure
• Personal expenses
• Visits other than those included in the program
• Parking booking and fee

The options :

• Standard or ebike rental
• Hallf board (5 dinners except in Royan)
• Additional night (s) at the start or end of the tour in La Rochelle or Royan
• Return by train or private van from Royan to La Rochelle with own bikes and luggage
• Theft insurance for the rented bike
• cancellation insurance

Level :

1 2 3 4 5 6

Ground :

Flat terrain.

Weather :

Soft sun, little wind and pleasant temperatures.

Technicality :

- Cycling: 38 to 65 km per day or 3 to 6 hours of cycling (90 km if you want to visit the Ile de Ré entirely).
- Partly marked itinerary, useful roadbook and map reading.

Bibliography:

- The Atlantic Coast by bike
- IGN map: Île de Ré, Oléron and Marais Poitevin

Additional nights :

An additional night is offered to you at the start and end of the tour in La Rochelle or Royan.

Meals :

- Breakfasts: buffet
- Lunch: not included
- Dinner: half-board in option (5 dinners except in Royan)

The bike :

- Rental bicycle : If you rent a bicycle, it will be given to you on the day of your arrival at the hotel. At the end of the tour, you will need to leave this bike at the hotel and notify reception. We will take care of his return. We offer specific equipment for children, seats, small hitched bikes and trailers.

- Personal bike : We do not recommend bikes with small tires. Hybrid bikes and mountain bikes are excellent. Remember to check your bicycle before setting off. At the end of the tour, you will need to take care of your own bicycle.

Assistance :

- Assistance in the event of a breakdown (except for punctures for which we do not intervene).

Roadbook :

You'll receive travel documents with practical information before your departure by post, as well as access to our hiking application by e-mail. The documents include hotel and restaurant vouchers and luggage tags.

Transport :

- By train: SNCF TGV to La Rochelle in around 3 hours from Montparnasse station. For more information on timetables, contact SNCF.
- By road: A10 motorway exit 32 or 33. Paris is 460 km from La Rochelle
- By plane: Airports in Poitiers and La Rochelle and international, Nantes or Bordeaux.

Cancellation insurance :

In order to guarantee the reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay, you can take out cancellation insurance. To learn more about insurance, click here.