This stunning cycling route follows the Seine River from Paris to the coast

La Seine à Vélo is not just a cycling route; it’s an immersive journey through the heart of France’s Île-de-France region and the scenic landscapes of Normandy. Covering over 400 kilometers, this cycling odyssey serves as a captivating link between the bustling streets of Paris and the tranquil coastal havens of Le Havre or Deauville. Buckle up your helmets, fellow adventurers, as we pedal through the highlights of this remarkable route.

Stage One: Paris to Chatou – A Ride Through History

The journey commences at the emblematic Notre Dame Cathedral, where cyclists set their wheels rolling towards the Right Bank. Along the way, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as the Forum des Halles and Place de la République. But it’s not all urban landscapes; soon, you’ll embrace the tranquility of the Canal Saint-Martin and the vibrant waters of the Canal Saint-Denis.

In Paris (photo Aurore Boréale)

Keep an eye out for street art as you pedal through the Canal Saint-Denis, aptly named ‘Street Art Avenue,’ showcasing around 30 artworks on the official route and a few hidden gems along the fringes. Pause to marvel at the colossal Stade de France, a symbol of French sporting prowess, before crossing Île Saint-Denis. As you arrive in Chatou, don’t miss the nearby Île des Impressionnistes, which stirred the creativity of legendary artists like Claude Monet and Auguste Renoir. A stone’s throw away lies the historic Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Joséphine.

Stage Two: Yvelines and Val-d’Oise – A Scenic Tapestry Unfolds

The next leg of your journey spans approximately 100 kilometers through the Yvelines and Val-d’Oise departments, revealing a tapestry of natural beauty and cultural richness. Your path will lead you through the royal town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, housing France’s national archaeology museum in its magnificent château.

En route, you’ll encounter the charming village of Frette-sur-Seine, often referred to as the “pearl of Val-d’Oise,” and the maritime hub of Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, known as the capital of inland water shipping. Architecture aficionados will appreciate a stop at Villa Savoye in Poissy, a masterpiece designed by the renowned Le Corbusier. Amid lush landscapes, make time for leisure at L’île de loisirs du Val-de-Seine in Verneuil-sur-Seine. The journey reaches its zenith with a visit to the captivating collegiate church of Mantes-la-Jolie, adorned with a polychromatic roof.

Val d’Oise (photo: Aurore Boréale)

As you venture further, the French Véxin regional nature park unfolds, offering a picturesque backdrop of farmlands and stunning vistas. Explore Vétheuil, a place steeped in cultural heritage, and the troglodyte church in Haute-Isle. The village of La Roche-Guyon, your last stop before Normandy, proudly carries the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’ label, providing a glimpse of its charming authenticity.

Stage Three: Entering Normandy – An Artistic Interlude

Normandy welcomes you with open arms as you cycle through Giverny, the home of Claude Monet, a haven where his artistic brilliance thrived. Visit Monet’s house and garden, an idyllic retreat adorned with a Japanese bridge, water lilies, and weeping willows. Continue your artistic exploration at the Musée des Impressionnistes, offering a deeper dive into the Impressionist movement.

Vernon, on the opposite bank of the Seine, beckons with its unhurried pace of life and an art-rich museum. As you pedal along, you’ll encounter the awe-inspiring Château Gaillard, a testament to Richard the Lionheart’s architectural prowess. Don’t forget to explore the Abbaye de Bonport, a Cistercian monastery steeped in history, before reaching the vibrant city of Rouen, Normandy’s administrative capital.

Stage Four: Rouen to the Sea – Coastal Wonders Await

After your Rouen rendezvous, the route guides you to the port of Jumièges, offering a glimpse of quintessential French villages like La Bouille and Sahurs, once muse to famous artists like Paul Gaugin and Camille Pissaro. Here, half-timbered houses and local culinary delights await.

Jumièges sets the stage for a pivotal decision as the route splits into two enticing paths. One takes you along the right bank of the Seine to Le Havre, where you can trace Victor Hugo’s footsteps and admire the architectural marvel of the Pont de Tancarville. Le Havre’s rebuilt city center, St. Joseph’s Church, and iconic beach huts beckon exploration.

Town of Deauville (photo David Darrault)

Alternatively, opt for the left bank path leading to the enchanting coastal town of Deauville. This route promises a journey through the Forêt de Brotonne (Brotonne forest) and the Marais Vernier marshes, offering glimpses of the Seine estuary and the charming port town of Honfleur. Your adventure culminates in the picturesque seaside haven of Deauville, renowned for its leisurely lifestyle, a casino, a racecourse, and the American Film Festival. While there, explore neighboring Trouville-sur-Mer, a town beloved by Marcel Proust, on the other bank of the River Touques.

An Unforgettable Ride

La Seine à Vélo is not just a cycling route; it’s an immersion into the soul of France. It’s a journey through history, art, culture, and natural splendor that promises unforgettable memories. So, saddle up, and let this scenic adventure captivate your heart as you explore the captivating landscapes and vibrant history of northern France.