Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Bayeux to Honfleur Cote Fleurie Normandy Bike Tour
This cycling journey from Bayeux to Honfleur is the perfect way to soak up the spirit of Normandy.
Starting in Bayeux, you’ll dive into history with visits to the D-Day landing beaches, Omaha Beach, and the moving American Cemetery. Quiet country roads then lead you through charming fishing villages and past rolling farmland.
The route hugs the Côte de Nacre before crossing Pegasus Bridge and following the elegant Côte Fleurie, where seaside towns like Cabourg, Deauville, and Trouville charm with Belle Époque villas and long sandy beaches.
Shifting inland, you’ll ride through the Pays d’Auge, a patchwork of orchards, half-timbered houses, and lush meadows. Stops to taste local cider, calvados, and cheeses like Camembert make the journey as delicious as it is scenic.
The adventure ends in Honfleur, a historic port with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and an artistic soul. It’s a trip blending history, culture, and nature at an easy pace.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Bayeux
Honfleur
easy to moderate
51 km / 31 mi
5
Min. 2, Max. 12
Caen–Carpiquet Airport (CFR)
Deauville–Normandie Airport (DOL),
Highlights

Bayeux and its Tapestry
Explore the medieval town of Bayeux, home to the world-famous tapestry that tells the story of William the Conqueror.

D-Day Landing Beaches
Ride along the historic coastline of Omaha and Arromanches, with moving memorials and museums that bring the events of 1944 to life.

The Côte Fleurie
Cycle past elegant seaside towns such as Cabourg, Deauville, and Trouville, known for Belle Époque villas and wide sandy beaches.

Honfleur’s Historic Harbor
End your journey in the picturesque port of Honfleur, a favorite of impressionist painters, with cobbled streets and colorful houses.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Bayeux | Hôtel Le Lion d'Or (4 star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Bayeux | Hôtel Le Lion d'Or et Restaurant La Table du Lion (4 star) | B | 71 km / 44 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer | Hôtel Le Saint-Aubin | B | 38 km / 24 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Houlgate | Hôtel La Maison d’Emilie (3 star) | B | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Trouville-sur-Mer | Best Western Hostellerie du Vallon (4 star) | B | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Honfleur | Hôtel Les Maisons de Léa (4 star) | B | 49 km / 30 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Bayeux
Arrive at your leisure and settle into the charming town of Bayeux.
Our local representative will meet you and share your travel documents, GPS, and insider tips for the journey ahead. Take time to wander cobbled streets, visit the stunning cathedral, or admire the world-famous Bayeux Tapestry. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with cafés perfect for a first taste of Normandy.
Relax in your hotel and prepare for the days of discovery ahead. It is a gentle start that balances history, culture, and comfort before you set out on your cycling adventure across Normandy’s coast and countryside.

Day 2: Bayeux
Pedal out of Bayeux into peaceful countryside once crossed by Allied forces on D-Day. The route takes you to the moving American Cemetery at Colleville and the iconic sands of Omaha Beach. Pause at the Overlord Museum to connect with the stories behind the landscape. Later, ride on to Port-en-Bessin, a lively fishing port known for its charm and authenticity.
Enjoy fresh sea air and the rhythm of daily catches before looping back to Bayeux. The mix of quiet roads, poignant history, and coastal scenery makes this ride both emotional and rewarding, offering a deep sense of place.
Elevation gain: 463m-569m/ 1519ft-1866ft

Day 3: Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer
Cycle towards Arromanches, once the site of an extraordinary Allied harbor built in 1944. Visit Arromanches 360, an immersive cinema that brings the Battle of Normandy vividly to life. The ride continues along the coast, where golden sands and traces of wartime history blend with tranquil seascapes.
Follow the shoreline until you reach Saint-Aubin-sur-Mer, a relaxed seaside town that feels welcoming after your ride. The day balances cultural discovery with the joy of coastal cycling, offering you time to reflect, unwind, and enjoy the slower pace of Normandy’s charming beaches and authentic small-town atmosphere.
Elevation gain: 355m/ 1164ft

Day 4: Houlgate
Leave Saint-Aubin and follow the coastline to Ouistreham’s bustling harbor, where fishing boats and yachts share the waters. Cross Pegasus Bridge, a legendary site of British airborne landings, and stop at the museum to explore its powerful history. Then turn inland along peaceful backroads toward Cabourg, beloved for its Belle Époque villas and its ties to Marcel Proust.
Continue pedaling along the Côte Fleurie, where sea views and elegant houses line the route. Arrive in Houlgate, a charming seaside resort with wide beaches, fresh breezes, and welcoming character, the perfect place to relax after a satisfying day of cycling.
Elevation gain: 121m/ 396ft

Day 5: Trouville-sur-Mer
Head inland through the rolling countryside of the Pays d’Auge, where apple orchards and half-timbered houses dot the green landscape. Pass through Beaumont-en-Auge, a postcard-perfect village with charming architecture, then continue toward Pont-l’Évêque, known for its colorful buildings and rich cheese-making traditions.
The ride feels bucolic and restorative, full of Normandy’s rural beauty. Approach Trouville-sur-Mer, a lively seaside town where sandy beaches, bustling markets, and Belle Époque villas create a vibrant mix. The blend of country charm and coastal elegance makes today’s journey especially rewarding, with every turn offering a new glimpse of Normandy’s diverse character.
Elevation gain: 366m/ 1200ft

Day 6: Honfleur
Follow a greenway that leads straight into Normandy’s artistic heart. The path takes you toward Honfleur, a port town once adored by impressionist painters. Upon arrival, wander cobbled lanes lined with colorful timbered houses. Visit Sainte-Catherine Church, France’s largest wooden church, or step into the Eugène Boudin Museum to see works that celebrate Honfleur’s light and landscapes.
The day combines gentle cycling with cultural immersion, giving you time to savor the historic harbor and its unique charm. End your journey with a sense of accomplishment and inspiration, surrounded by the timeless beauty that makes Honfleur unforgettable.
Elevation gain: 358m/ 1174ft

Day 7: Departure
Wake up in Honfleur and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before the tour concludes. Take a final stroll through the harbor, where boats rock gently against the quays and cafés fill with the scent of fresh pastries. Visit a museum, shop for souvenirs, or simply soak in the atmosphere one last time.
The town’s charm makes it easy to linger, whether you plan to depart for Deauville Airport, return to Paris, or extend your stay. It is a gentle and fitting close to a journey that has blended history, landscapes, and culture into a truly memorable cycling adventure.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hôtel Le Lion d'Or et Restaurant La Table du Lion
Set in a historic coaching inn, Hôtel Le Lion d’Or combines classic charm with modern comfort. Elegant rooms provide a relaxing retreat after a day of cycling. The hotel features a cozy lounge and inviting bar, perfect for unwinding with a drink. Ideally located in the heart of Bayeux, it offers easy access to the cathedral, tapestry museum, and the town’s atmospheric cobbled streets.

Hôtel Le Saint-Aubin
Just steps from the beach, Hôtel Restaurant Le Saint-Aubin offers warm hospitality and a peaceful coastal setting. Comfortable rooms blend simplicity with charm, many featuring sea views. The on-site restaurant serves fresh local cuisine with a focus on seafood specialties. Its location makes it a perfect spot for enjoying the relaxed rhythm of seaside life while staying close to Normandy’s historic landmarks and scenic cycling routes.

Hôtel La Maison d’Emilie
A charming boutique hotel near Houlgate’s sandy beach, La Maison d’Emilie offers a cozy retreat with a personal touch. The rooms are individually styled, combining comfort with elegance. Guests enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring local products in a friendly setting. With its Belle Époque architecture and proximity to the sea, the hotel captures the spirit of the Côte Fleurie and provides a restful base for cyclists.

Best Western Hostellerie du Vallon
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Trouville-sur-Mer, Best Western Hostellerie du Vallon offers stylish rooms with modern amenities. Guests can relax at the spa, indoor pool, or bar after a day’s ride. The hotel combines contemporary comfort with a welcoming atmosphere. Its location near Trouville’s beach and lively center makes it easy to enjoy both the seaside charm and the vibrant culinary scene.

Hôtel Les Maisons de Léa
In the heart of Honfleur, Les Maisons de Léa blends history and elegance in a collection of beautifully restored houses. Rooms are individually decorated with character and warmth, creating a boutique hotel feel. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the restaurant or relax in the wellness area. Just steps from the old harbor, the hotel makes a perfect finale to the journey, surrounded by Honfleur’s artistic spirit.
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $890
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $120
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Velo De Ville Trekking bike or similar or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo De Ville Touring bike or similar or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo De Ville E-bike or similar or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Bayeux, a historic town in Normandy. The nearest airport is Caen–Carpiquet Airport (CFR), located about 30 km away. You can reach Bayeux by taxi or private transfer in roughly 30–40 minutes. Travelers flying into Paris airports (Charles de Gaulle – CDG or Orly – ORY) can take a direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Bayeux, with a journey time of around 2 hours 30 minutes.
Tips: Book train tickets in advance for better fares. Taxis are available at Bayeux station for short transfers to your hotel.
Departure
Your tour ends in Honfleur, a charming port town on the Côte Fleurie. The nearest airport is Deauville–Normandie Airport (DOL), located about 10 km away, accessible by taxi in around 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can return to Paris by car or transfer in approximately 2.5 hours.
Tips: If flying internationally, Paris airports (CDG or ORY) offer the widest range of connections. Consider booking an extra night in Honfleur to enjoy its harbor and museums before departure.
Weather
Cycling in Normandy is most enjoyable from late spring to early autumn. May, June, and September offer the best balance of mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Expect daytime highs around 18–22°C (64–72°F), perfect for comfortable riding. July and August are warmer, averaging 22–26°C (72–79°F), with long sunny days but also more tourists. April and October can be pleasant, though cooler at 12–17°C (54–63°F) with a higher chance of showers. Winter months are off-season with chilly, wet conditions averaging 6–9°C (43–48°F). Light layers and a waterproof jacket keep rides comfortable throughout the season.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Good
August
Good
September
Best
October
Good
November
Mixed
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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