Self-Guided Great Crossing of Northern Brittany Road Bike Tour

This cycling journey begins in the Breton capital and gradually leads you to the sea, revealing some of the region’s most breathtaking coastal panoramas. Along the way, you pass through and stay in several towns that perfectly capture the spirit and charm of Brittany.

Highlights of the route include Mont-Saint-Michel, a spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Site that has recently regained its island character through an innovative restoration project. You also visit Saint-Malo, the historic walled city whose narrow streets and maritime past evoke the atmosphere of an adventure novel. The route continues through Dinan, a remarkably well-preserved medieval town, and coastal ports such as Erquy and Paimpol, both renowned for their scallop fishing traditions. The journey further leads to Perros-Guirec, a popular seaside resort located along the famous Pink Granite Coast.

To connect these stage towns, the route follows quiet, rolling roads that wind between countryside and coastline. Cyclists ride through landscapes shaped by the sea, tracing paths once associated with one of France’s greatest cycling legends, famously known as “The Badger.” Along the Emerald Coast, the presence of the open sea is constant, especially near Cap Fréhel and the cliff routes of Plouha, where the road runs high above the water. Rising nearly seventy meters above sea level, these dramatic cliffs and panoramic coastal roads form one of the most striking and memorable sections of the entire route.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Rennes

Finish

Roscoff

Level

challenging

Avg. Daily Distance

98 km / 61 mi

Cycling Days

6

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Rennes Airport (RNS)

Fly-Out

Brest Bretagne Airport (LFRB)

Highlights

Highlight Image

Mont-Saint-Michel Wonde

A world-famous UNESCO World Heritage Site rising dramatically from the sea. This historic abbey, perched on a rocky island, offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, spiritual heritage, and breathtaking tidal landscapes.

Highlight Image

Pink Granite Coast

Renowned for its striking rose-colored rock formations, this coastline offers an unforgettable natural spectacle. Sculpted by wind and waves, the pink granite contrasts beautifully with the blue sea, creating some of the most scenic coastal views in France.

Highlight Image

Historic Castles & Forts

From fortified towns to dramatic cliffside castles, Brittany is rich in medieval history. Iconic sites like Fort La Latte showcase powerful stone architecture and offer sweeping views over the coastline and the open sea.

Placeholder Image

Ride a Section of the Grande Boucle de Bretagne

La Grande Boucle de Bretagne is a circular cycling route designed to showcase the best of Breton landscapes and culture, combining coastline, countryside, historic towns, and inland canals into one continuous journey. This itinerary follows a large section of the Grande Boucle

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.

Detailed Itinerary

Itinerary Image

Day 1: Rennes

Arrive in Rennes at your own pace and begin your journey in one of France’s most vibrant yet historic cities. As the capital of Brittany, Rennes effortlessly weaves together centuries-old charm with a lively modern spirit.

Wander through streets where striking architecture tells stories of the past, while contemporary art and a rich culinary scene reflect the city’s creative soul. Deeply rooted in its heritage and culture, Rennes welcomes you with warmth, character, and an unmistakable sense of identity.

Meals:
Itinerary Image

Day 2: Mont-Saint-Michel

Leaving the Breton capital behind, you ride towards Normandy for an overnight stay. The route follows quiet country roads through the romantic landscapes of Brittany, gradually leading you closer to the sea. As you approach the coast, the scenery opens up and the atmosphere becomes distinctly maritime.

In the distance, the spire of Mont-Saint-Michel slowly appears on the horizon, creating a sense of anticipation. With every passing kilometer, the island becomes more defined until it finally stands fully revealed, rising dramatically from the bay. The day ends near Mont-Saint-Michel, one of France’s most iconic landmarks, offering a truly unforgettable arrival.

Elevation gain: 837 m

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 111 km / 69 mi
Itinerary Image

Day 3: Saint-Malo

Today’s cycling route follows the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel and continues along the Emerald Coast. Riding between land and sea, you experience a landscape shaped by tides, coastal winds, and rich maritime traditions. Along the way, you pass areas known for local production, reflecting Brittany’s strong connection to the sea.

A stop in Cancale offers the chance to enjoy its famous oysters, a regional delicacy. Continuing along the coast, you ride through scenic surroundings before reaching the historic port city of Saint-Malo. With its medieval ramparts, narrow streets, and vibrant harbor, Saint-Malo provides a fitting end to a day filled with coastal beauty and cultural encounters.

Elevation gain: 429 m

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 75 km / 47 mi
Itinerary Image

Day 4: Pléneuf-Val-André

Start the day from Saint-Malo and cycle along the beautiful northern coast of Brittany. The route takes you through some of the region’s most scenic landscapes, combining coastal views with charming countryside.

Pedal through Saint-Suliac, one of France’s most beautiful villages, before continuing to Plouër-sur-Rance and Saint-Samson-sur-Rance. Reach the medieval town of Dinan, known for its historic streets and impressive ramparts, and then ride onwards through Languenan.

Continue towards Saint-Jacut-de-la-Mer and the Pointe du Chevet, where stunning sea views await. The route then leads past Château du Guildo and Saint-Cast-le-Guildo, followed by Fort La Latte and Cap Fréhel, famous for their dramatic cliffs and panoramic vistas. Descend towards Sables-d’Or-les-Pins, pass through the fishing port of Erquy, and finally arrive at Pléneuf-Val-André, enjoying the coastal scenery and picturesque villages along the way.

Elevation gain: 1284 m

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 100 km / 62 mi
Itinerary Image

Day 5: Ploubazlanec

Today, you return to the sea at Yffiniac, a commune closely linked to Bernard Hinault, one of France’s greatest cycling legends. The route then follows the coast, taking you from port to port through lively seaside towns such as Binic, Saint-Quay, and Paimpol, all renowned for their scallop fishing traditions.

Cycling along the cliff routes near Plouha, you are rewarded with some of the most breathtaking viewpoints along the northern Breton coast. Take time to explore Paimpol and its charming harbor before continuing towards Ploubazlanec. The day concludes in this peaceful coastal town, where you spend the night surrounded by maritime scenery and local character.

Elevation gain: 1172 m

Meals: B D
Cycling Distance: 98 km / 61 mi
Itinerary Image

Day 6: Perros-Guirec

Today’s ride offers a striking change of colors as the coastline shifts from deep blue to soft pink hues, creating a spectacular natural display that stretches for many kilometers. The route blends coastal beauty with inland discoveries, offering a varied and engaging cycling experience.

Before reaching Port-Blanc, the route briefly moves inland through two historic towns, La Roche-Derrien and Tréguier, both known for their rich heritage and distinctive architecture. History and culture add depth to the journey as you continue towards the coast. The day ends in Perros-Guirec, a renowned seaside town and gateway to Brittany’s famous pink granite coast.

Elevation gain: 1038 m

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 90 km / 56 mi
Accommodation: Hôtel Les Costans
Itinerary Image

Day 7: Roscoff

Today, you continue cycling westward along the scenic Bay of Lannion and the Bay of Morlaix. The route follows quiet coastal roads, offering constant views of the sea and a peaceful riding experience. As you progress, chapels and elegant manor houses appear regularly along the way, reflecting the rich heritage of the Léon region.

The journey concludes at the port town of Roscoff, a small city full of character and maritime charm. With its picturesque harbor and historic streets, Roscoff provides a fitting end to this memorable cycling adventure.

Elevation gain: 950 m

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 115 km / 71 mi

Day 8: Departure

Your cycling journey comes to an end in Roscoff. If time permits, you may choose to take a short boat trip to the nearby island of Batz. This tranquil island, known for its unspoiled landscapes and coastal paths, offers the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect on an unforgettable journey through Brittany.

Meals:

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.

Highlight Image

Hôtel Le Saint-Antoine & Spa (4-star)

A contemporary hotel located in the heart of Rennes, offering elegant rooms and a refined atmosphere. Its wellness spa and central location make it ideal for relaxation and city exploration.

Highlight Image

Hôtel Mercure Mont Saint-Michel (4-star)

Situated close to Mont-Saint-Michel, this hotel provides modern comfort in a peaceful natural setting. It is a perfect base for discovering the iconic abbey and surrounding bay.

Highlight Image

Hôtel La Maison des Armateurs (4-star)

Set within the historic walls of Saint-Malo, this hotel reflects the charm of a former shipowner’s residence. It combines classic décor with modern comfort in an exceptional old-town location.

Highlight Image

Hôtel Restaurant Spa Marin du Val André Thalasso (4-star)

Overlooking the sea, this thalasso spa hotel is dedicated to wellness and relaxation. Guests enjoy ocean views, spa treatments, and a peaceful seaside atmosphere.

Highlight Image

Hôtel Les Terrasses de Bréhat (4-star)

Located near the coast with views toward the island of Bréhat, this hotel offers a calm and welcoming setting. Known for its quality dining, dinners are included for a comfortable stay.

Highlight Image

Hôtel Les Costans

A charming seaside hotel offering panoramic views over the bay of Perros-Guirec. Its warm ambiance and scenic location make it an excellent stop along the Pink Granite Coast.

Highlight Image

Hôtel Restaurant Le Brittany & Spa (4-star)

A prestigious seaside hotel combining luxury accommodation with a renowned gastronomic restaurant. The spa and oceanfront setting provide a refined and relaxing end to the journey.

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.

Single Supplement

From US $1,500



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

A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Bike Image

Ridley Carbon Frame or similar

road

Included in your trip price

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

The tour begins in Rennes, the capital city of Brittany, which is easily accessible by multiple modes of transport.

Rennes is well connected by train, with high-speed rail services from Paris taking about one hour and thirty minutes.

For those arriving by air, Rennes Airport serves the city, and the city center can be reached in approximately thirty minutes using Bus Line C6. The Rennes airport is a minor international airport offering seasonal flights to some European capitals such as Amsterdam, London, Paris, and Dublin.

Travelers arriving by car can reach Rennes in approximately three hours and thirty minutes from Paris, four hours and thirty minutes from Bordeaux, and around six hours from Lyon. Several public parking facilities are available in the city, including Parking Gare Sud C-PARK, Parking Les Lices, and Parking Hoche.

Departure

The cycling tour ends in the port town of Roscoff, from where onward travel can be arranged conveniently. By car, Roscoff is located approximately five hours and thirty minutes from Paris, six hours from Bordeaux, and about eight hours from Lyon.

Train connections are available via Morlaix train station, which offers services to Paris in around three hours and thirty minutes. This is generally the fastest and most economical mode of transport when traveling from Roscoff to Paris.

For air travel, Brest Bretagne Airport is the nearest major airport for departures, located 60 kms or a 90-minute drive from Roscoff. It offers limited flight connectivity to some European capitals.

Weather

Brittany has a mild oceanic climate, making it suitable for cycling across much of the year. May, June, July, and September are considered the best months, offering pleasant temperatures between 15–25°C, long daylight hours, and generally stable weather.

April and October fall into the good season, with moderate temperatures ranging from 9–18°C, fewer crowds, and comfortable cycling conditions despite occasional showers.

March and August are classified as mixed months. March can be cool and changeable with temperatures around 7–13°C, while August is warm at 17–24°C but busier due to peak holiday travel.

The off-season includes November to February, when temperatures drop to 5–10°C, daylight hours are shorter, rainfall is higher, and coastal winds are stronger, making cycling less favorable during this period.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Mixed

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Best

August

Mixed

September

Best

October

Good

November

Offseason

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:

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.

Is proof of medical 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.

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.

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

A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.

For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.

Before Your Tour

When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.

At the Start of the Tour

The setup experience varies by destination:

  • In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.


  • In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.


All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.

During the Tour

You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.

What to Expect

The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:

  • You start with the correct frame size

  • You can fine-tune your comfort easily

  • You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route


It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.

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.

A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.

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. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.

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.

We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.

On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.

Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.

We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.

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.

Reviews from our friends

You may also like


Classic Costa Brava and Pyrenees Road Bike Tour
Self-Guided

Self-Guided Classic Costa Brava and Pyrenees Road Bike Tour

casual+  hotelschallenging level

8 daysfrom$2,095/person

View Details
Mallorca Classic Road Bike Tour
Self-Guided

Self-Guided Mallorca Classic Road Bike Tour

casual+  hotelschallenging level

9 daysfrom$1,995/person

View Details
Porto to Lisbon Road Bike Tour
Self-Guided

Self-Guided Porto to Lisbon Road Bike Tour

casual+  hotelsmoderate to challenging level

8 daysfrom$2,095/person

View Details