Spend 7 days cycling the Via Rhôna from Switzerland to France on this guided tour
Experience the legendary Via Rhôna cycling route on the 7-day self-guided Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour. This mesmerizing cycling holiday, which takes you from the magnetic streets of Geneva to Leon's picturesque lanes, is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Alps and the charm of the French countryside as you explore the upper Rhône Valley. The well-known Via Rhôna cycling route has seen cyclists riding from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean since 1995. The 815km route comprises a portion of the famous EuroVelo cycling route, and this tour invites you to experience a section of it.
Discover a true "global city" as you begin your tour in Geneva, where you'll enjoy world-class dining and spectacular sightseeing. Then, hop on your bike and take in the beauty of the Alps as you pedal into France. Explore and stay overnight in Seyssel, Champagneux, Villebois, Pérouges, and Lyon, where your tour concludes.
The Via Rhôna will have you cruising through the awe-inspiring mountains and valleys of the upper Rhône, where you'll discover an authentic France. Cycle through medieval villages, explore majestic castles and cruise alongside sprawling vineyards as you make your way towards the elegant city of Lyon. Once in Lyon, savour the experience of visiting a true gastronomic hub of France, where dining is nothing short of a divine experience.
Along the cycling route, enjoy either standard or deluxe accommodations during your overnight stays in the most iconic towns and villages on the Rhône.
Hop on your bike and discover an extraordinary side of France on the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour.
Highlights of the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon
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Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
Your tour begins in the “capital of peace,” cosmopolitan Geneva, full of vibrant charm and situated on the famous Lake Geneva. Settle into your accommodations here and set out on a stroll along the lake, followed by dinner at one of the city’s many spectacular restaurants.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Geneva
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Switzerland to France
With your sights set on France, you'll depart Geneva this morning, tracing the Rhône to discover the "Défilé de l'Écluse" as you pedal a series of vineyards interspersed with spectacular views of the alps mountains and valleys.
Arriving in Seyssel, you'll note a departure from the hustle and bustle of Geneva as you settle into your cozy hotel in the quiet town of Seyssel, perched on the banks of the Rhône.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Seyssel
Distance: 60km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 Cycle Small Villages to Champagneux
A delightful ride awaits you this morning as you set out, hugging both banks of the Rhône, enjoying your amiable position between lofty ridges and a plateau. Arrive in Chanaz and perhaps stop for lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the Savières Canal.
You’ll ride to Culoz and Belley, two quintessential small French villages brimming with warmth and charm. Your last ride will be to tonight’s accommodations in beautiful Champagneux, where you’ll spend an evening savouring local food and wine.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Champagneux
Distance: 58km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Cycle Small Villages to Villebois
Bound for Villebois, you'll cruise through a lovely collection of small villages on your ride this morning. Saint-Genix-Sur-Guiers comes into view first, and you'll want to hop off your bike here to try their famous brioche pralines, perhaps grabbing a doggy bag for the road! Continue to Glandieu, where you'll take in a beautiful waterfall as you cruise through a lovely natural oasis.
Press on to Villebois, where you'll spend another lovely evening.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Villebois
Distance: 65km
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5 Cycle Burgey to Pérouges
Your experience on the Via Rhôna will introduce you to the serene countryside of Bugey as you pedal a scenic route just above the Rhône. Today you’ll ride through Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey, Sault-Brénaz, and La Balme-les-Grottes, known for its cryptic caves and vibrant town center.
Following several stops in picturesque villages along the way, you’ll arrive in Pérouges, a medieval town known as one of France’s most beautiful towns. Enjoy!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Pérouges
Distance: 54km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Sail into Lyon
Your final day of cycling will first take you through the parks and lakes of greater Lyon and then into the vibrant city center. Cruise the banks of the Rhône, and you’ll soon spot the river’s confluence with the Saône. You’ll enjoy a day exploring Lyon however you please!
Whatever you decide to get up to in this captivating city, be sure to reward yourself with a farewell dinner at one of 20 Bouchons in the city where you’ll enjoy authentic Lyonnaise cuisine and fantastic local wines. Raise a toast to a magical week cycling the Via Rhôna and enjoy your final evening of the tour in Lyon!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lyon
Distance: 46km
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Departure
Your cycling tour comes to an end this morning following breakfast. Check out of your hotel and depart for the airport.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
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: $1,850 USD
- Single room (groups of 2+): $1,550 USD
- Sharing a twin room: $1,150 USD
- Sharing a double room: $1,075 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $950 USD
Comfort Accommodation:
Departure on April 1st – October 31st, 2024:
- Solo traveller: $2,125 USD
- Single room (groups of 2+): $1,825 USD
- Sharing a twin room: $1,250 USD
- Sharing a double room: $1,225 USD
- Sharing a triple room: $1,175 USD
Accommodation on the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour
This tour is available with either standard or deluxe accommodations. Hotels and B&Bs on the standard tour are 2-star and 3-star and offer basic conveniences. Hotels and B&Bs on the deluxe tour are 3-star and 4-star and offer modern conveniences.
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 Accommodation
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.
Deluxe Accommodations
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.
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.
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.
Hôtel Host du Vieux Pérouges (Pérouges)
Hôtel Host du Vieux Pérouges in Pérouges is a charming accommodation, situated within the historic medieval village, offering guests a unique and cozy stay surrounded by the town's picturesque ambiance.
Hôtel le Roosevelt (Lyon) ★★★★
Hôtel Le Roosevelt in Lyon is a stylish and comfortable accommodation, offering guests a pleasant stay with modern amenities in the vibrant city of Lyon, providing convenience for exploring its attractions and culinary scene.
What’s Included in the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Geneva and after the tour in Lyon 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 are 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
- Additional nights before, during, or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Deluxe hotel option
- Bike rental
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Frequently Asked Questions about Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon
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.
Learn MoreRhône River by Bike-Geneva to Lyon Route Map
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