Discover the upper and lower Rhône Valley on this 13-day self-guided cycling tour
Challenge yourself to an epic cycling adventure that will have you completing the Via Rhôna cycle route, cycling from Geneva, Switzerland to Orange, France. This 13-day multi-country self-guided cycling tour will introduce you to the spellbinding beauty of the upper and lower Rhône Valley.
The famous Via Rhôna cycling route has had cyclists riding from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean since 1995. The 815km route contributes a section of the famous cross-euro EuroVelo cycling route. This tour will have you complete almost the entire marvellous route that links Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea via the mighty Rhône.
Beginning in magnetic Geneva, you'll cross over into France, first exploring and staying in towns and villages like Seyssel, Champagneux, and famous Lyon. Then, entering the gates to beautiful Provence, where you'll experience the unparalleled elegance and charm of authentic France in Orange.
Cycle accompanied by awe-inspiring views of the French Alps as you ride through Savoie and take in the Jura Mountains' foothills in Bugey. The tour will introduce you to several authentic small French villages each brimming with charm, and every stop along the route will provide you with the opportunity to soak up French culture and history.
Explore the region of Ardèche, where you'll be mesmerized by its cryptic caves and ancient archeological sites. Enjoy an evening of true indulgence in Lyon, where you can dine in a famous "petit Bouchon," delighting in the food and wine of France's gastronomic capital. Witness the Rhône's wild side as you pedal the vineyard of Côte-Rôtie, known for producing one of the world's most seductive and elegant wines.
You may call this the tour that keeps on giving, as each stop along the way will be filled with delightful experiences and epic adventures. Complete the Via Rhôna cycle route and render yourself a true champion as you cycle from Geneva to Orange!
Highlights of the Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange
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Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange Coast Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
Arrive in Geneva, a true global city, known for its progressive humanitarian tradition and often dubbed as the “capital of peace.” Geneva is full of magnetic energy and life and is the perfect place to begin an epic cycling journey. Located on the famous Lake Geneva, the city is not only known for its upstanding character but also its natural beauty!
Settle into your accommodations here head out to experience this remarkable city, making sure to take in the famous Lake Geneva with a stroll along its scenic banks.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Geneva
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Geneva to Seyssel (Ride or Train)
Your journey to France can either be completed by bike or train, depending on how you'd like to experience this part of the route. If you plan to cross over from Switzerland to France on bike, you'll trace the Rhône, discovering the "Défilé de l'Écluse" on your way. The route continues through a series of gorgeous vineyards and opens to sensational views of the alp's majestic mountains and valleys.
Once in Seyssel, you'll enjoy the tranquillity of this quiet town and note a swift departure from the bustle of Geneva. Settle into your accommodations here and enjoy the wonderful views of the Rhône.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seyssel
Distance: 60km, 550m of ascent, 673m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Cycle to Champagneux via Small Villages
Back on bike this morning, you’ll enjoy a pleasant ride, tracing both banks of the Rhône and savouring superb views as you find yourself flanked by ridges and a plateau. Your arrival in Chanaz will likely time well for a stop for lunch! Enjoy some mouthwatering French cuisine at a local restaurant, or perhaps post up near the Savières Canal and enjoy a nice picnic.
Then, your route continues to Culoz and Belley, two beautiful French villages that won’t disappoint. Finally, you’ll ride to Champagneux, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Champagneux
Distance: 58km, 132m of ascent, 178m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Cycle to Villebois
Today’s route will introduce you to some more spectacular small villages on your way to Villebois. Saint-Genix-Sur-Guiers is up first. Known for its famous brioche pralines, a short stop to fill up on local specialties comes highly recommended here! Then, ride to Glandieu and finally press on to Villebois, where you’ll rest your head this evening.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Villebois
Distance: 65km, 164m of ascent, 180m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 5 Cycle Through Beautiful Bugey
Today the Via Rhôna will introduce you to the spellbinding countryside of Bugey as your route takes you on a beautiful stretch of the track above the Rhône. Ride through Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey, Sault-Brénaz, and La Balme-les-Grottes, each with its unique ambience and charm.
Arrive in the medieval town of Pérouges, known as one of France’s most beautiful towns!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Pérouges
Distance: 54km, 164m of ascent, 180m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 France’s Gastronomic Capital, Lyon
Pedalling towards Lyon, you’ll enjoy cycling the parks and lakes of greater Lyon as you make your way towards the city center.
Lyon, known as France’s gastronomic capital, is sure to be a highlight of the tour! Enjoy your time here, eating and exploring your way through this most elegant town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lyon
Distance: 46km, 61m of ascent, 116m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Lyon to Vienne (Cycle or Train)
Departing Lyon, you’ll either cycle or train to Vienne. The route on bike takes you first through Grigny and Givors, and then on to St-Romain-en-Gal.
After experiencing the nature of the Rhône over several days, today you’ll be invited to learn more about the famous river’s history, with optional visits to museums in both St-Romain-en-Gal and Vienne. They provide an in-depth look at the Rhône, all the way from classical to contemporary times.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Vienne
Distance: 34km, 20m of ascent, 40m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 L’île au Beurre Nature Reserve and Côte-Rôtie Wine Region
Today’s route has much in store, especially for lovers of history, nature, and gastronomy! Departing Vienne, you’ll ride towards the L’île au Beurre Nature Reserve, where the Rhône runs wild and free. Steeply terraced vineyards will flank your ride as you make your way into the prestigious Côte-Rôtie Wine area, where one of the world’s most elegant wines is produced. It goes without saying that you may want to hop off your bike for a tasting (or two!) during today’s magical route.
Continue to Serrières, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Serrières
Distance: 34km, 20m of ascent, 40m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 Vineyards and Orchards to Valence
Your route today will be flanked by breathtaking scenery as you pedal among steep vineyards and vibrant orchards, entering the wild and rugged Ardèche region. The river's importance in this region is unparalleled as it supports orchards, extensive crops, and top-class vines, all reliant on the river's life-giving flow.
Enjoy the remarkable scenery of this region bursting with life as you pedal to Valence, with an optional stop in Tournon-sur-Rhone, a town with fascinating Gallo-Roman roots.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Valence
Distance: 61km, 40m of ascent, 55m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 Trace the Western Bank of the Rhône to Montélimar
Hop on your bike this morning for a pleasant ride along the Rhône's western bank, enjoy a brief stop at Valence's southern river port of L'Epervière on your way out of town.
Today you'll explore the historical region of Ardèche, known for its fascinating caves, archeological sites, charming villages, and grand châteaux.
The route will have you pedalling the Himalayan-style footbridge at Rochemaure, taking you over the Rhône where you'll be met by the gates to Provence. Arrive in Montélimar, where humans have roamed for over 50,000 years. Enjoy a pleasant stroll in the old town center this evening and soak up the remarkable charm of this ancient town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Montélimar
Distance: 72km, 20m of ascent, 60m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 11 Cycle to Bourg-Saint-Andéol via Viviers
Say farewell to beautiful Montélimar this morning and set out through several small villages before hopping off your bike to explore Viviers and its enchanting medieval spirit.
Back on the bike, you’ll continue to Bourg-Saint-Andéol, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations. Bourg-Saint-Andéol is known for its extremely rare sculpture of a Mithraic deity, which you’ll discover during your walk around town.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Bourg-Saint-Andéol
Distance: 30km, 20m of ascent, 50m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 12 Final Ride to Orange
A bittersweet day has arrived, as today marks your final day of cycling and also your grand arrival in beautiful Orange!
The final route begins with impressive views of Provence, where you’ll soak in the scenery and aromas of this famous region of France. Make your way through the lovely village of Pont-Saint-Esprit, then continue to your final destination of Orange.
Orange is a town steeped in awe-inspiring history and is home to several Roman buildings and monuments, like the famous City Wall, Arc de Triumph, and the Roman Amphitheatre. Enjoy your final evening of the tour in this charming town and enjoy a mouth-watering farewell dinner to celebrate the passing of this epic cycling journey on the Via Rhôna.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Orange
Distance: 51km, 79m of ascent, 98m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 13 Departure
Your cycling tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Check out of your accommodations and head to the airport to depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: 51km, 30m of ascent, 60m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
The departure is available on any day of the week except on Fridays. Prices below are per person:
Standard accommodation:
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Solo traveller: $3,175 USD
- Single room (groups of 2+): $2,850 USD
- Sharing a twin room: $2,075 USD
- Sharing a double room: $1,950 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $1,750 USD
Comfort Accommodation:
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Solo traveller: $3,750 USD
- Single room (groups of 2+): $3,450 USD
- Sharing a twin room: $2,325 USD
- Sharing a double room: $2,275 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $2,295 USD
Accommodation on the Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange Coast Tour
This tour is based in hotels. Hotels are 2-star and 3-star in the standard package or 3+ star in the deluxe package. All accommodations will offer either basic or modern conveniences that can make your stay more pleasant.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Standard Hotels
Hôtel Jade Manotel (Genève) ★★★
Hôtel Jade Manotel in Geneva is a stylish and comfortable accommodation, offering guests a pleasant stay with modern amenities in the heart of Geneva, providing convenience for exploring the city and its attractions.
Hôtel Au Fil de l'Eau (Seyssel)
Hôtel Au Fil de l'Eau in Seyssel is a charming riverside accommodation offering a tranquil stay, providing guests with serene views and a peaceful atmosphere along the water's edge.
Cdh Vieilles Portes (Champagneux)
Cdh Vieilles Portes in Champagneux is a quaint guesthouse nestled within the serene countryside, offering a peaceful and rustic retreat for guests.
Cdh A deux pas du Rhéby (Villebois)
Cdh A deux pas du Rhéby in Villebois is a cozy retreat situated near the Rhéby, offering a tranquil setting amidst nature.
Hotel la Bérangère in Perouges ★★
A small family-friendly hotel that welcomes guests with open arms and has an outdoor pool and excellent restaurant.
Hôtel Le Simplon (Lyon) ★★
Hôtel Le Simplon in Lyon is a comfortable and conveniently located accommodation, offering guests a pleasant stay while exploring the city's attractions and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Lyon.
Grand Hotel de la Poste in Vienne ★★
An old coaching inn dating back to 1750 has been converted to a cozy hotel in the center of Vienne here. Guests will enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere as well as a delicious breakfast buffet here.
Hôtel Schaeffer in Serrières ★★★
Guests will enjoy their stay at Hotel Schaeffer which is located among the gorgeous vineyards of the Rhône Valley.
Hotel Alpes Cevennes in Guilherand-Granges ★★
Hotel Alpes Cevennes is a great hotel that prides itself on providing a “home away from home” atmosphere.
Hotel Le Printemps in Montélimar ★★★
Le Printemps is a lovely hotel offering guests an ideal mix of comfort and convenience. The hotel also boasts a pool, lounge and restaurant.
Hôtel Domaine des Oliviers in Pierrelatte ★★★
Enjoy this small romantic hotel with a refreshing pool, billiards room, and a cozy bar and lounge.
Hôtel Lou Cigaloun in Orange ★★★
Enjoy a stay on the edge of Provence at this historical hotel located in the heart of the old Roman City.
Deluxe Hotels
Hotel Ibis Centre Lac in Geneva ★★★
Located in the city center, this modern hotel is just minutes away from several of Geneva’s top attractions.
L'Hôtel du Rhône in Seyssel
Guests will enjoy their stay at this stylish hotel with plenty to keep them entertained, from a billiards room to karaoke.
Hôtel les Bergeronnettes in Champagneux ★★★
Find the perfect mix of value, comfort, and convenience at this lovely hotel that boasts a pool and lounge.
Hôtel Domaine des Cèdre in Villebois ★★
This hotel is set in a charming environment that offers guest fun amenities like a bar and lounge and on-site tennis courts.
Hostellerie de Pérouges in Pérouges
A mix of rustic and medieval styles, this unique stay has guests staying at various houses around the city.
Novotel Gerland Musée des Confluences in Lyon ★★★★
A modern masterpiece in the heart of Lyon, guests will love their stay at this modern hotel that has a pool, gym, and lovely terrace.
Hotel Ibis Lyon Sud Vienne Saint Louis in Vienne ★★★
This is a lovely hotel featuring a cozy bar and lounge, located near several top attractions in Vienne.
Hôtel Schaeffer in Serrières ★★★
Guests will enjoy their stay at Hotel Schaeffer which is located among the gorgeous vineyards of the Rhône Valley.
Hôtel l'Atrium in Valence ★★★★
Contemporary rooms and proximity to top attractions in Valence, such as the Musee de Valence, make this an ideal base for exploring the charming town of Valence.
Hôtel le Sphinx in Montélimar ★★★
A historic 17th-century private residence has been beautifully restored into a charming hotel complete with a tranquil courtyard and welcoming lounge.
Hôtel Domaine des Oliviers in Pierrelatte ★★★
Enjoy this small romantic hotel with a refreshing pool, billiards room, and a cozy bar and lounge.
Hôtel le Glacier in Orange ★★★
Enjoy the charming and friendly ambience of this gorgeous hotel in a typically Provencal town, made up of several smaller houses, and set around a lovely tranquil patio filled with colourful flowers.
What’s Included in the Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange Coast Tour?
Meals
12 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 12 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Nevers and after the tour in St-Brevin-les-Pins are not included but can be added as a supplement. You can also book ahead to extend your stay at any of the overnight locations along the route.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour (1 piece per person). Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
Also Included
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- Tourist information on all places of interest
- Tourist city tax
- 24/7 emergency phone support
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Guide services
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas is required
Optional Extras
- Bike rental
- Additional nights before, during, or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Deluxe hotel option
- Optional activities or excursions
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Frequently Asked Questions about Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange
With 25 years of experience running walking and biking tours in France, S-Cape France has a team full of energy and fresh ideas. Their multinational team can assist in various languages, and their large collection of itineraries means you’ll be able to find your dream adventure in France.
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