Rhône River by Bike: Lyon to Orange

Rhône River by Bike: Lyon to Orange Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival

Your cycling tour begins in the French capital of gastronomy, Lyon! Arrive at your accommodations and make yourself at home. Your options for the remainder of the day in Lyon are endless. Put on a good pair of walking shoes and set out on an adventure to explore the elegant city, perhaps beginning with a stroll to the impressive Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière or a visit to one of the city’s fascinating museums.

Work up an appetite on foot, then pop into Lyon’s famous indoor food market to devour some traditional Lyonnais fare—the perfect way to whet the appetite before a delicious dinner this evening in a traditional Bouchon of Lyon!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lyon
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Cycle or Train to Vienne

Today’s journey to lovely Vienne can either be completed by bike or by train.

If travelling by bike, you’ll depart Lyon this morning and ride through the towns of Grigny, Givors, and St-Romain-en-Gal. You’ll have a chance to learn more about the historical and contemporary significance of the Rhône, with optional museum visits in both St-Romain-en-Gal and your destination for today, Vienne.

Vienne holds plenty in store, home to a charming old quarter where one can explore spectacular Roman ruins.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Vienne
Distance: 34km, 80m of ascent, 95m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 L’île au Beurre Nature Reserve and Côte-Rôtie

Lovers of history, nature, and gastronomy unite—a full day of adventure awaits you!

Leaving laid-back Vienne this morning, you’ll pedal towards the L’île au Beurre Nature Reserve, where the true nature of the mighty Rhône will be on full display. Soak in the scenery of the terraced vineyards that envelop the trail as you enter the prestigious Côte-Rôtie wine area. Continue through the robust orchards that flourish in the valley as you complete today’s gorgeous route to Serrières.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Serrières
Distance: 34km, 20m of ascent, 40m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Cycling in Ardèche

Marvellous scenery in the rugged and beautiful Ardèche region will characterize today’s ride as you cycle alongside vineyards and orchards bound for Valence!

En route to Valence, hop off your bikes in Tournon-sur-Rhone, a fascinating town ripe for exploring with deep Gallo-Roman roots.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Valence
Distance: 61km, 40m of ascent, 55m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Cycle to the Gates of Provence: Montélimar

This morning you'll set out to cruise the Rhône's western bank, enjoying a brief stop at Valence's southern river port, L'Epervière, as you leave town.

The historical region of Ardèche, which you'll ride through today, is well-known for its spectacular caves, archeological sites, opulent châteaux, and authentic villages. Your route leads you across the Rhône via the Himalayan-style footbridge at Rochemaure, arriving at Montélimar, known as the gates to Provence.

Explore Montélimar's old town center this evening and revel in the rich ambience of this historic town. Those with a sweet tooth will want to make a point of scoping out a shop that sells the local nougat delicacy, which Montélimar is famous for!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Montélimar
Distance: 72km, 20m of ascent, 60m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Cycle to Bourg-Saint-Andéol via Viviers

Say farewell to beautiful Montélimar this morning as you set out to trace branches of the Rhône, riding to the historic town of Viviers, which you’ll find steeped in medieval spirit. Continue to Bourg-Saint-Andéol, where you’ll unearth historical heritage treasures like the rare Mithraic deity sculpture found here and several ancient chapels, complete with grand clerical residences.

Bourg-Saint-Andéol is sure to be a highlight of the tour, particularly for lovers of history!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Bourg-Saint-Andéol
Distance: 30km, 20m of ascent, 50m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Cycle to Orange via Pont-Saint-Esprit

Today marks your final day on the bike as your mesmerizing tour of the Rhône Valley comes to an end tomorrow. Your final route features marvellous views of Provence as you pedal through breathtaking scenery and take in the aromas of this famous region of France. Pedalling through the lovely village of Pont-Saint-Esprit, you’ll then press on towards your final destination, historic Orange.

Orange is a truly fascinating town steeped in rich Roman history and home to several ancient Roman buildings and monuments. Take in the famous City Wall, and the Roman Amphitheatre while here.

Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening, with a delicious meal and toast to a fabulous week spent exploring the Rhône Valley by bike!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Orange
Distance: 51km, 30m of ascent, 50m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure

Following breakfast, your cycling tour will come to an end. It’s highly recommended to book a few extra nights in Orange, as there is so much to see and do in this historical city!
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast