Frequently asked questions from travellers
Is there a direction in which you should ride?
Roscoff > Dunkerque or Dunkerque > Roscoff?
Seasoned cyclists advise people to ride the cycle route from West to East. This increases your chances of having the wind behind you! This is why we recommend that you cycle from Roscoff to Dunkirk. But both are possible: the route is marked in both directions.
What type of bike do you recommend for The Vélomaritime cycle route?
We recommend a hybrid bike.
Crossing the Normandy Bridge - are there any alternatives?
The Le Havre <> Honfleur section does not offer cyclists a safe, bike-friendly path yet. The bridge has a cycle path but it runs alongside the road, without any separation (studies are ongoing to find a solution).
Two alternatives are currently available:
- Book a ticket for you and your bike on the no. 122 Caen <> Honfleur <> Le Havre bus service. Buses are equipped with racking for four bikes. It is a booking-only service. Further information
- Get your bikes and luggage transferred by La France à cyclo, at a cost of €90 for two bikes (€30 per extra bike), while you hop on the no. 39 Caen <> Honfleur <> Le Havre bus service.
Where to Sleep?
Hotels, campsites, guest rooms and other types of group accommodation are available all year long. Some of them provide services especially for cycling tourists.
The national Accueil Vélo (bike-friendly) brand guarantees a good welcome and quality services along The Vélomaritime®.
In practical terms, what does that mean? In opting for Accueil Vélo (bike-friendly) accommodation, you can be sure that you have suitable facilities: safe bike shelter, repair kit, etc. You are also welcomed accordingly (information and advice) and the people who run your accommodation may offer special services, such as luggage transfer, or the washing and drying of clothes.
How to find them?
On the trail maps (they are green) or using the search engine.
⚠️ Remember to book your accommodation ahead, particularly during peak tourist seasons (July-August and long weekends), including for campsites.
Should you book your accommodation in advance?
We can only recommend that you book your accommodation ahead, particularly during peak tourist seasons (July-August and long weekends), including for campsites.
Are there any all-inclusive cycling breaks?
Several agencies specialised in cycling holidays offer all-inclusive Vélomaritime breaks. They book everything for you, from your bike and accommodation, to your baggage transfers. All you have to do is pedal!
How can I get to the Vélomaritime cycle route?
We make life easier for you with our interactive map and a summary of all the solutions and options for getting to the Vélomaritime cycle route – train stations and services, ferry crossings, other cycle routes and so on.