Major cycling routes
The major cycle routes in France and Europe
From Atlantic beaches to Baltic forests, from the Swiss Alps to Dutch canals, major cycling routes offer a unique way to explore Europe at your own pace. Thanks to a vast network of cycle routes and the ambitious EuroVelo project, it’s now possible to plan a cycling trip lasting several days or weeks on marked cycle paths designed for cycle tourists.
Growing cycle networks
By 2024, the EuroVelo network will have more than 90,000 km of planned routes, including over 50,000 already usable. In France, there are more than 25,000 km of cycle routes in operation, and an ambitious policy to develop cycle tourism is supported by local authorities, France Vélo Tourisme, and the regions.
The challenge is threefold: to encourage soft mobility, promote local heritage, and offer a sustainable alternative to traditional modes of transport. Organized cycle tours are becoming a real trend, as is independent cycle travel. The European cycle route map is now an essential tool for planning your route, choosing your stages, and cycling with complete peace of mind.
The EuroVelo network, circuits for exploring the continent
The EuroVelo project, launched by the European Cyclists’ Federation, brings together 19 long-distance routes crossing more than 40 European countries. Each EuroVelo has a number and a theme:
- EuroVelo 1: The Atlantic Cycle Route, from the North Cape of Norway to Portugal via the Atlantic coast, including the Vélodyssée in France.
- EuroVelo 3: The Pilgrims’ Route, from Norway to Santiago de Compostela, via Paris and Tours; the section in France is called the Scandibérique.
- EuroVelo 4: The Central European Cycle Route, from Roscoff to Kyiv, passing through the Normandy cliffs, Belgium, and Germany, the Vélomaritime.
- EuroVelo 5: The Via Francigena from London to Brindisi in Italy, following the traces of an ancient pilgrimage route.
- Eurovelo 6: From the Atlantic to the Black Sea, from Saint-Nazaire to the Danube Delta, via the Loire, the Rhine, and the Danube.
- Eurovelo 8: Mediterranean Cycle Route from Cadiz in Spain to Cyprus, via the French Riviera, Italy, and the Balkans.
- Eurovelo 9: From the Baltic Sea to the Adriatic, from Gdańsk in Poland to Pula in Croatia, crossing the countries of Central Europe.
- Eurovelo 10: The Baltic Sea Cycle Route, a complete tour of the Baltic Sea through the Scandinavian and Baltic countries.
- Eurovelo 12: The North Sea Route, from the Norwegian fjords to the Scottish coast, via the Netherlands.
- Eurovelo 13: The Iron Curtain Cycle Route, a historic crossing of Eastern Europe, following the former border of the Soviet bloc.
- Eurovelo 15: The Rhine Cycle Route, from Switzerland to the Netherlands, via Strasbourg, along the Rhine.
- Eurovelo 17: The Rhône Cycle Route, also known as the ViaRhôna, from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, along the Rhône.
- Eurovelo 19: The Meuse by bike from France to the Netherlands via Belgium, following the meanders of the Meuse.
These major cycling routes increasingly rely on updated European cycle route maps and digital resources for independent route planning. Furthermore, France is crossed by seven EuroVelo routes, making it a strategic hub for cycling in Europe.
The major cycling routes in France
In addition to the EuroVelo sections, France is developing its own network of long-distance cycle routes. Here are the most iconic:
- La Vélodyssée: 1,200 km from Roscoff to Hendaye, a journey along the Atlantic coast.
- La Loire à Vélo: France’s most famous cycle route, a truly magnificent journey.
- La ViaRhôna: From Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, a cycling adventure steeped in history, from the Gallo-Romans to the present day.
- La Vélo Francette: From Caen to La Rochelle, a journey rich in heritage and gastronomy.
- La Véloscénie: From Paris to Mont-Saint-Michel, along your route you’ll see incredible monuments, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Le Tour de Bourgogne : a loop around canals and vineyards.
- La Flow Vélo: 400 km connecting Sarlat in the heart of the Périgord region to the Île d’Aix.
- The Rhine Cycle Route: It borders the Rhine and the Vosges Mountains, and is also a true link between France and Germany.
- La Vélobuissonnière : A cycling route in the heart of Normandy’s countryside
- La Régalante : Brittany and Normandy on old railways, regions with renowned gastronomy, you’ll be delighted.
These major cycling routes are all detailed on our website, with corresponding cycle path maps and the best resources to guide you.
Our essential maps and guides for smart cycling
- EuroVelo cycling maps by country or section (Eurovelo 6, 15, 1, etc.)
- Atlas of cycle routes and greenways – France and Europe – Cartovelo
- Chamina or Editions Ouest France cycling guides
To best prepare for your next adventure, you can also find our selection of essential maps and guides for cycling and hiking tours.