La Vélodyssée runs the length of France's Atlantic coast from Roscoff in Brittany to Hendaye on the Spanish border, part of the EuroVelo 1 route, passing the Île de Ré, the Marais Poitevin wetlands, the Arcachon Bay dunes and the Basque coast.
Route map
Terrain
Mostly flat, dedicated cycle path and quiet coastal roads, with the biggest natural obstacle being headwinds off the Atlantic rather than hills. Well signed throughout as part of the EuroVelo network.
Tips
Prevailing winds usually favour riding north to south, so most cyclists start in Roscoff and finish in Hendaye rather than the reverse. The Arcachon Bay and Landes forest sections offer some of the longest uninterrupted traffic-free stretches. Coastal towns get busy and pricier in July–August.
Permits & access
No permits required.