Paris to Versailles via the Coulée Verte

Cycling trip map
Histoire
Patrimoine
This one-day journey follows the opening stretch of the Véloscénie cycling route. From Paris, the Coulée Verte leads you gently toward Versailles—through shaded parks, hidden valleys, and elegant suburbs. A relaxed and inspiring ride, perfect for a gentle day trip on two wheels, where royal heritage meets peaceful greenery. Versailles has never been so pleasant to reach—especially by bike!

Day 1

29 km

The Queen of Rides

Set out on a royal escape from Paris to Versailles via the Coulée Verte—an accessible and bucolic route, ideal for a serene day of cycling. From our Paulette agency at 115 rue Brancion, head to Porte de Brancion and join the southern stretch of the Coulée Verte, just 300 meters away.

Almost instantly, the city noise fades behind you. A leafy, shaded path takes over, dotted with gentle slopes that keep your legs engaged without spoiling the fun. Pass through Châtillon and Sceaux, riding alongside the beautiful Parc de Sceaux. This is the perfect spot for a break—wander through its formal gardens, fountains, and tree-lined alleys, all designed by Le Nôtre.

Feeling adventurous? Make a detour to the Vallée-aux-Loups Park in Châtenay-Malabry—a hidden gem classified as a “remarkable garden.” With its footbridges, ponds, and the famous weeping blue cedar, it’s a stop worth stretching for.

The trail then brings you to Massy, where the route branches off. Follow signs toward Versailles along the Bièvre Valley—a green corridor dotted with peaceful villages like Igny, Bièvres, Vauboyen, and Jouy-en-Josas. The hills are real, but the views are calming. The final climb to Petit Jouy-Les Loges marks the approach to your destination.

And then—Versailles appears! Glide down the grand Avenue de Paris to the Château de Versailles, a UNESCO-listed marvel of French heritage. Visit the Hall of Mirrors, stroll the gardens designed by Le Nôtre, or ride along the cycle paths through the palace grounds and around the Grand Canal.

Return is easy by train from Versailles Rive Gauche or Versailles Chantiers—arriving at Gare Montparnasse, just 2.5 km from our agency. And for the most dedicated riders, the return can also be done by bike—bringing your adventure full circle in style.