La Seine by Bike: From Paris to Deauville
Cycling through France means landscapes that unfold, a calming nature, and a deep sense of freedom.
Day 1
55 km
Paris → Conflans-Sainte-Honorine
Your journey begins in the heart of Paris, cruising along the city’s extensive bike lanes. Pass Notre-Dame, glide by the Saint-Denis Canal, and gradually leave the urban buzz behind. The scenery evolves—industrial backdrops give way to surprising green havens, with the Seine gently guiding your transition to the suburbs.
Pause in Chatou at the Parc des Impressionnistes for a serene riverside break, where Renoir once painted the Seine’s shimmering reflections. Continue along a flat greenway to Sartrouville, soaking in the bucolic charm. Nearing Saint-Germain-en-Laye, feel the royal heritage in the air—palaces, gardens, and Debussy’s birthplace line your path.
Arrive in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, the French capital of river navigation. Wander the quays and the old town, and take in the magic of this meeting point between the Seine and the Oise.
Day 2
47 km
Conflans-Sainte-Honorine → Mantes-la-Jolie
The Seine leads the way today, winding through greener and greener surroundings, dotted with islands and ponds. Make a detour to Poissy to see the UNESCO-listed Villa Savoye, Le Corbusier’s architectural gem. Ride through the Parc du Peuple de l’Herbe, a haven for birdwatchers and a breath of fresh air for cyclists.
The mood quiets as you roll on—from Triel-sur-Seine to Les Mureaux, pass sailboats and barges that keep the river alive. Take a break at the Gallardon Pond or the landscaped riverbanks of Les Mureaux.
After spotting the massive Renault factory in Flins, arrive in Mantes-la-Jolie, watched over by the majestic Notre-Dame Collegiate Church. You’re now at the gateway to wilder valleys—Normandy is on the horizon.
Day 3
44 km
Mantes-la-Jolie → Vernon
Today brings a change of riverbank and a more pastoral setting. Ride between fields and streams, passing Guernes and the Port Ilon reservoir. The air is fresh, filled with birdsong and the ripple of water. Reach Vétheuil, a painter’s village once home to Monet, then Haut-Isle with its surprising cave dwellings.
Before Vernon, stop at the hilltop Château de la Roche-Guyon—its cliff-and-forest backdrop is unforgettable. Cross into the Eure region and discover Giverny, where Claude Monet’s garden immerses you in the world of the Water Lilies. The day ends in Vernon, where art, nature, and heritage blend harmoniously.
Day 4
56 km
Vernon → Poses
After a morning stroll past Vernon’s old mill and collegiate church, cycle close to the Seine all the way to Les Andelys. The terrain undulates gently through timber-framed villages. The view from Château Gaillard, built by Richard the Lionheart, is a highlight of the journey.
The trail follows lakes and old quarries, winding through serene meanders. Pass through Saint-Pierre-du-Vauvray and pedal between river and ponds to Val-de-Reuil. Arrive in Poses, a peaceful boatmen’s village. Dine al fresco at Auberge du Halage, right by the Seine—a well-earned reward.
Day 5
46 km
Poses → Rouen
Leave the Deux Amants area and trace the river past Biotropica and its animal park. In Elbeuf, step back into its textile past at the Fabrique des Savoirs museum. Follow chalk cliffs and a viaduct with sweeping views of the valley.
After a forest stretch in Rouvray, enter Rouen—a gothic and port city. Wander its medieval streets, discover the Vieux-Marché square, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and feel the pulse of this vibrant Norman hub.
Day 6
54 km
Rouen → Jumièges
Today, the Seine draws majestic loops. Leave Rouen for the villages of the Seine Loops Natural Park: flower-decked homes, orchards, and utter tranquility. Stop in Hautot-sur-Seine or La Bouille, a charming village that inspired Gauguin and Sisley.
Cross the river by ferry, watching the barges pass by. The scenery grows more rural, dotted with apple, pear, and plum orchards. Reach Jumièges and the towering ruins of its Benedictine abbey, once praised by Victor Hugo.
Day 7
43 km
Jumièges → Marais-Vernier
Ride peacefully to Aizier along the river, then loop through Brotonne Forest to reach the Marais Vernier, France’s largest peat bog. A haven for biodiversity: storks, buzzards, reeds… The route winds through villages and rolling hills.
Pause at the Maison du Parc, a visitor center about Normandy’s flora, fauna, and traditions. This is a contemplative leg, where the landscape transforms at every bend.
Day 8
26 km
Marais-Vernier → Honfleur
The shortest stage, but not the easiest! Leave the wetlands behind and climb towards Berville-sur-Mer. The sea is near, and the air turns salty. You’ll glimpse the Tancarville and Normandy bridges before descending into Honfleur.
This postcard-perfect port welcomes you with its old harbor, timbered houses, and Sainte-Catherine’s quay. Take your time exploring the streets loved by painters and sailors alike.
Day 9
47 km
Honfleur → Deauville
For your final ride, cycle through Normandy’s countryside of apple trees and meadows. In Pont-l’Évêque, sample the namesake cheese or visit a calvados distillery. Deauville’s arrival is striking: beach, colorful beach huts, casino, film festival…
Savor your last day by the sea—perhaps with a detour to Trouville and its famous fish market. You’ve made it, with a light heart and panniers full of memories.