At a Glance
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Dive into cascades of raw scenery uncovering France; explore the pristine landscapes of picturesque Brittany and Normandy on scenic bike rides, dig into the thought-evoking historical archives and landmarks and delight your taste buds with delectable French cuisines, all on this 6-day escapade.
Your journey starts at the seaside haven of Deauville with your first shuttle to the enchanting town of Dinan. Bike through the captivating city of Brittany and relish the alluring riverbanks riddled with traces of enigma. Immerse yourself in the surreal scenery of the elegant seaside town of Dinard. Pedal through stunning granite cottages and verdant heather fields as you grace the beautiful village of St-Suliac with your presence. Treat your palates to brain-busting treats and sumptuous cuisines as you savour a plethora of French specialties. Be mesmerised ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified
- 5 nights accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis.
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfers
- Fully equipped titanium bike, with a helmet and accessories
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio.
- Sightseeing and activities as stated in the itinerary.
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information.
- Park and other entry fees
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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Level 2, Approx. 37 km (23 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 250 m (800 ft) This morning, you will meet up with your trip leaders by 11 am at the St-Malo train station in St-Malo, France. Please arrive dressed in your biking attire and Come along with your luggage, rain gear, and anything you will need for this trip in your daypack (All luggage will be transferred to our first night’s accommodation) After meeting with your trip leaders, we will shuttle on from here as we hit our first milestone. We arrive at the mediaeval town of Dinan radiantly nestled on the banks of the Rance River. Revel in the unique houses styled in half-timber and 13th-century cobblestone. We will convene here for lunch as you try out local specialties made from fresh, organic scented ingredients. Get ready to hop on your bike as your trip leaders have your bike fitted while giving you a brief talk on safety and techniques. Your adventure starts here as we set out on two wheels for your enchanting adventure in Brittany. We will follow a very exciting biking route through the Rance estuary. Take in every unfolding scenery with every metre covered on your bike through the twist and turns of the Rance estuary amid ravishing riverbanks and small ports. Feel a surge of an enigma as you marvel at legendary Breton architectures, high, wide, and shallow structures that feature thick masonry walls in mostly white and cream render. Continue on two wheels as you bike through a hilly route; notice how the winds roughly glide beside your ears as you descend this gentle hill. We’re headed to the elegant seaside town of Dinard, a favourite resort among Parisians and Tourists alike laced with fascinating villas and picturesque sandy beaches. Feast your eyes on the local casinos as they evoke fascinating memories of the town’s belle and epoque period that featured the building of fabulous villas by wealthy Parisians. |
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Take a final ride for the day back to the 5-star luxury Grand Hôtel Barrière, located in Dinard. This premier hotel boasts of astounding elegant quarters amidst an overlooking sea view. Spend time unwinding at the indoor pool or enjoy a drink on the terrace before indulging in a refreshing dinner at the Le bleu restaurant of delicious classic French cuisine. |
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FOUR BIKING OPTIONS: Level 1, Approx. 16 km ( 10 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 92 m (300 ft) Level 2, Approx. 50 km (29 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 275 m (900 ft) Level 3, Approx. 60 km (38 miles), 3-5 hours biking, Elevation gain: 396 m (1300 ft) Level 4, Approx. 81 km (50 miles), 4-6 hours biking, Elevation gain: 520 m (1700 ft) Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at your luxury accommodation before hitting the ferry with your bike for a quick cross to St-Malo, an old city surrounded by high granite walls as means of fortification. This iconic city once served as a stronghold for Corsairs (Pirates who had the king's approval). Get on your bike as we journey along the pristine boundless fields littered with heather as you bike through breezy headlands. As you continue on your bike halfway between St-Malo and Dinan, we will take a turn south where you will be met by the welcoming presence of St-Suliac, a fishing port overlooking the turquoise waters of La Rance estuary and one of Les Plus Beaux (most beautiful) villages in France. After, we head to our lunch spot for a refuel before continuing. When you’re done with your delectable lunch, you can hop on your bike or catch a shuttle to Cancale, an old-fashioned fishing village with a jetty-lined port and rhythmic tides that grace the port. This village is known to be the oyster capital of Brittany. Get to try out a taste of the town’s staple. With fresh oysters and shellfish brought from the market at the riverfront. Feed your palates as you slurp these tasty mollusks prepared simply with organic ingredients and a wedge of lemon. This cuisine becomes even more satisfying as you enjoy a raunchy view of Mont-St-Michel situated in the middle of the bay. We set out again on this route and ride across the captivating coastal areas as we bike a little towards Mont-St-Michel, a fascinating tidal island and commune in Normandy. Take in the alluring scenery of the Emerald Coast as you explore an exceptional vantage point overlooking the stunning coast before catching a final ferry for the day across the La Rance estuary to your accommodation in Dinard. Tonight, we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Where you are treated to a typical French dining specialty with options spanning a regionally-inspired seafood menu. |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Today starts with a ferry ride to Mont-St-Michel Monastery, one of the three main pilgrimage sites in Europe that have attracted the Christian faithful worldwide. We will arrive early at this world heritage site as you feed your senses to the powers of this revered grounds. Shuttling from Mont-St-Michel, we will head to the Norman countryside as you relish the uniqueness of culture through every bend. Sight rambling scenery of captivating villages and inland towns. Explore the historical merits of this location as you enjoy views of rugged landscapes, authentic, lively markets and shops along the island routes. Treat yourself to a refreshing taste of typical French specialties topped with Camembert and Pont I’Evêque cheese wheels. When you’re done, hop on your bike as we set off with sights of green rolling hills spewing raw vistas in view. Our destination this time is Bayeux, a town on the Aure River in the Normandy |
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A visit to the mediaeval coast promises historical structures, half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and the iconic Norman-Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame dating back to 1077. Spend some time exploring the famed 68-metre Tapisserie de Bayeux, an 11th-century tapestry depicting the 1066 Norman invasion of England led by William the conqueror. Take a memorable stroll through the long tapestry while feasting your eyes on the stunning detail and colour on display. When you’re ready, we will take a short stroll arriving at Villa Lara, an opulent boutique hotel situated at the very heart of the Bayeux mediaeval centre overlooking the cathedral. Enjoy the rest of the day exploring Villa Lara’s luxury amenities from unwinding in its elegant lounge to a refreshing dip in the pool. Or spend some quality time exploring Bayeux town if you wish. As the evening draws near, the towns’ restaurants are always available to serve you the best dishes for dinner. A glass or two of Calvados should draw the curtain for a perfect night. |
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Level 2, Approx. 31 km (19 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 335 m (200 ft) As we set off for today’s epic adventure, it is only normal if you’re awed by the historic events that have unfolded on this route over the years. Enjoy the charming backdrop view of lush pastures, stony cliffs, almost noiseless villages, and rambling beaches as we head to Bessin for our ride today. You will be accompanied by a local historian as we pay a memorable visit to Omaha beach, an iconic landmark with cascades of historical archives grossly plastered on its grounds. It may be saddening to know that over 3000 American troops were either killed or wounded in an attempt to reach the shores. The brutal history is what has earned this dreadful site its nickname, Bloody Omaha. Be amazed by the perfectly lined 9,387 white marble markers in a row located just high above the beach on the American military cemetery at Colleville-Sur-Mer. Look at the Displays markers arranged in a series of columns that account for the landings on D-Day. To further complement this dreadful event are the names of 1,557 soldiers inscribed on a wall at the back of the memorial. The list shows the names of soldiers whose remains were never accounted for. After sulking in all the grim memories, hop on your bike as we pedal through the lush countryside along the rambling beaches. We’re headed to our lunch spot this afternoon. Once you’re done with lunch, we visit the war-torn bunkers of the German stronghold, Pointe du Hoc. Get back on the biking route as you sight views of green rolling hills on your way back to your elegant accommodation in Bayeux in time for dinner featuring exquisite gourmet dishes. |
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FOUR BIKING OPTIONS: This morning paves the way for a more exciting exploration as we set off to Arromanches through the original German batteries at the Longues-sur-Mer. As we calmly process to the end of this route, it’s all downhill on a calm and quiet countryside road as we make our way to seaside Arromanches and Gold beach. Get ready to explore and learn about the historical D-Day event. While at this location, gaze at the remains of Mulberry Harbor, a short-lived port constructed just after the D-Day invasion. Next, we forge ahead on two wheels to Courseulles-sur-Mer, a commune in Normandy's Calvados department, where you’ll enjoy lunch on your own. Take a relaxing time off with a meal from the local fare, and while this lasts, there's still ample time left to visit Juno Beach, one of five beaches of the Allied invasion where the Canadian troops landed. We continue on a bike ride taking a graceful route amidst stately castles and grand manors. We are led to Pegasus Bridge, a historical landmark that holds one of the triumphs of the British troops on D-Day. |
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You’ll stay at the elegant Grand Hôtel Cabourg. An ultra-chic hotel nestled close to the beach along the English channel and is just 2 km away from Dives river and Église Notre Dame. Bask in the surreal scenery of the seas overlooking this fascinating accommodation, or take some time for yourself in their luxury spa. Tonight, we convene for a toast to our successful expedition beofre a fine dining affair at the hotel’s waterfront restaurant. |
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Level 1, Approx. 27 km (17 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 213 m (700 ft) Savour a delightful breakfast before a final exploration of the town on a scenic route. Explore inland as you find enchanting villages or take your time on this final stroll while grabbing café au lait. Don’t forget to complement this drink with some tasty pain au chocolat before returning to Cabourg, through a stress-free rural route. There’s still enough time to freshen up at the hotel before your shuttle to a train station in Caen, where your trip ends. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Deauville
- The finish point is Rennes
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Deauville. The nearest major international airport is Deauville - Saint-Gatien Airport and is 8 km from the center of Deauville, France. Another major airport is Le Havre - Octeville Airport which has domestic flights from Le Havre, France and is 47 km from Deauville, France.
Brittany and Normandy enjoy a mild maritime climate, moderated by the Atlantic wind. Slightly cooler, misty weather with some rain is possible along the coast—the cooler temperatures make it perfect riding weather! On most days you'll be comfortable biking in a short-sleeved jersey or T-shirt. (When you head out in the morning you might want to wear a lightweight jacket or vest, arm warmers and knee/leg warmers.) Rain showers are always possible—don't forget to bring waterproof, breathable rain gear with you. Be prepared for all types of weather to ensure that your trip is enjoyable.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 1-4.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
![]() | Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). | |
![]() | Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. | |
![]() | Performance Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). | |
![]() | Carbon Bike The Carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS has been put through its paces at both Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France by the UCI World Tour team–EF Pro Cycling. Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package—it’s built for hard-core riders, men and women alike, who are looking for a high-performance bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The Synapse is offered in a complete range of sizes. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Not equipped with a rear rack or bag, bring your own pedals, selection of saddle sizes available. | |
![]() | Tandem Bike Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. Suggested for riders with some tandem experience and on trips with flatter terrain. Due to the tandem's size, frequent racking is not realistic, so there may be fewer opportunities to hop in the van. Dropped handlebars for captain position, upright for stoker. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Rear rack and pannier or trunk bag and Flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals) |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.