Véloscénie, the cycling route from Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible to all

Published by My de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Published on July 6, 2023 at 01:30 p.m.
Have you heard of the Véloscénie? This 450 km cycling itinerary takes us from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel, passing through some of the world's most beautiful monuments, five of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. From the charming Vallée de Chevreuse through the Perche to the Normandy bocage, it's a real treat for the whole family.

Why not plan your next cycling trip with your partner or family? La Véloscénie, the cycling route between Paris and Mont Saint-Michel, could be the ideal opportunity to discover new horizons in total disconnection. You'll be able to enjoy a memorable vacation with friends, lovers or family, while exploring France at a leisurely or brisk pace, depending on your preferences.

La Véloscénie is a breathtaking cycling itinerary that takes us through three regions. The 450 km route is accessible to all. For all cycling and heritage lovers, it's a discovery not to be missed.

According to a study by the Institut National de la Consommation, the French spend an average of 10 days a year on family vacations, and almost 30% prefer to spend time in nature, with 14% opting for cycling. Family cycling vacations in France are therefore becoming increasingly popular.

La Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tousLa Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tousLa Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tousLa Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tous

As you cycle along the Véloscénie, you'll pass historic monuments, picturesque towns and natural gardens. You'll also have the chance to discover local culture and gastronomy in the small towns and villages you'll pass through. Whether you opt for a day trip, an itinerant weekend or a full week of disconnection, the experience will be unforgettable.

To make your trip as easy as possible, La Véloscénie offers a host of services, including equipment rental, turnkey tours and establishments with the Accueil Vélo label. What's more, it offers a wide choice of accommodation, from campsites to hotels and bed & breakfasts, to suit all budgets and preferences.

For those looking for a more immersive experience, the Véloscénie offers several stages accessible from station to station, with equipment rental available on site. Whether you're interested in a 3-4 day adventure covering 125 km or a 2-day trip covering 65 km, each itinerary offers a variety of family activities. These range from puzzle games at Domfront en Poiraie, to visits to the Château de Rambouillet and Chartres Cathedral. The more adventurous can explore the Mortain waterfalls, where, according to legend, goblins live in hiding, or take part in a crossing of the Prés Salés on the voie verte on arrival at Mont Saint-Michel.

Depending on the itinerary chosen, La Véloscénie offers different accommodation options to suit all preferences. Campsites can be found every 20-30 kilometers, some even offering unusual accommodation. For those who prefer a little more comfort, hotels and bed & breakfasts are also available along the route.

La Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tousLa Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tousLa Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tousLa Véloscénie, l'itinéraire vélo de Paris au Mont-Saint-Michel, accessible à tous

Discover the highlights of the Véloscénie route:

  1. Paris: The starting point for this cycling adventure.
  2. The Domaine Départemental de Sceaux : A place to breathe in the heart of the Paris suburbs, rich in history.
  3. The Château and Park of Versailles: A must-see to admire the grandeur of French royalty. Nearby, don't miss the Château de Saint-Jean-de-Beauregard.
  4. Château de Rambouillet: A historic monument that has welcomed many heads of state.
  5. Château de Maintenon: A magnificent château that was once the home of Louis XIV's secret wife, Madame de Maintenon.
  6. Chartres: Famous for its cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  7. Marcel Proust's town(Illiers-Combray): A small tribute to one of France's greatest writers.
  8. Château des Comtes du Perche: A historic monument in the heart of the Perche regional nature park.
  9. Parc naturel régional du Perche: A place of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
  10. Domfront-en-Poiraie: A charming place with a breathtaking view over the Normandy countryside.
  11. Château de Carrouges: A picturesque 13th-century castle.
  12. Bagnoles-de-l'Orne spa: A place of relaxation and well-being.
  13. The medieval town of Domfront: A town rich in history, with its medieval fortifications.
  14. The waterfalls of Mortain: A natural spectacle not to be missed.
  15. Mont-Saint-Michel: The destination of your trip, one of France's most visited sites, famous the world over.


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Le Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard et son Jardin remarquableLe Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard et son Jardin remarquableLe Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard et son Jardin remarquableLe Château de Saint-Jean de Beauregard et son Jardin remarquable

The journey begins in Paris, where you can cycle to Versailles, via the coulée verte and the Parc de Sceaux in the Hauts-de-Seine department. However, we recommend starting from Massy station in Essonne, especially if you're a family.

La promenade des petits ponts dans la vallée de Chevreuse -  A7C3911La promenade des petits ponts dans la vallée de Chevreuse -  A7C3911La promenade des petits ponts dans la vallée de Chevreuse -  A7C3911La promenade des petits ponts dans la vallée de Chevreuse -  A7C3911

The Véloscénie route offers a variety of majestic landscapes and historic monuments. Notable stops include :

  • Nogent-le-Rotrou (Eure-et-Loir) to Mortagne-au-Perche (Orne)
  • The spa town of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne
  • The medieval town of Domfront (Orne)
  • The waterfalls of Mortain (Manche)

And finally, the spectacular finish at Mont-Saint-Michel Bay. In this surreal Couesnon estuary, the Mont is best appreciated from afar, and the closer you get to it by bike.

To prepare for this cycling trip, make sure you have well-maintained equipment, sufficient fitness, a good map and a water bottle to quench your th irst along the way.

In addition to these preparations, here are a few tips:

  • Choose a stage suited to your level
  • Aim for short sections of 30 to 40 km to start with.
  • Be aware of the differences in altitude, and preferably set off early in the morning.
  • Make sure you have sufficient lighting in case of fog or darkness.

La Véloscénie is a unique journey that promises an unforgettable adventure through the heart of France. Get ready and set off to discover these exceptional landscapes and historic monuments.

Practical information

Prices
Free

Recommended age
For all

Official website
www.veloscenie.com

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