From Paris to Deauville along the Seine by bike

Designed by DolceVia, expert in cycling tourism, the low-carbon “From Paris to Deauville along the Seine by bike” tour is totally car-free. From the capital to the beaches of Deauville, it offers an accessible and charming escape, ideal for lovers of Impressionism, river landscapes—so dear to the painters of this artistic movement—and simple pleasures.

The route runs along the Seine and passes through a wide variety of landscapes: forests, marshes, chalk cliffs lining the river and islands that inspired Monet, bucolic valleys, and finally, the coastline. Customizable and bookable online, the package includes lodging (a 3-star hotel or a charming bed-and-breakfast), breakfasts, bike rentals, accessories, and insurance: a turnkey vacation that invites you to simply go with the flow.

Day 1: from Paris to Hardricourt, from urban murals to nature and cultural heritage

65 km by bike

Departing from Paris, the Paris-Deauville route follows the Saint-Martin and Saint-Denis canals, true open-air museums, to reach the Île des Impressionnistes in Chatou, the Hameau, and the Musée Fournaise via the Route des Impressionnistes. A stop here is a must in this village closely linked to Renoir, who painted his famous work, Le Déjeuner des Canotiers, here. The route then continues to Rueil-Malmaison, passing through the forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and on to Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, a peaceful riverside town.

Day 2: from Hardricourt to Giverny, in the footsteps of Claude Monet

60 km by bike

After a first stop at the Château d’Hardricourt, overlooking the Seine, the roads lined with orchards and hills lead to the Château de Rosny-sur-Seine, the perfect spot for a picnic, before arriving in Giverny. In this famous village, the visit to Monet’s house and gardens offers a complete immersion in his world. Finally, the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny invites visitors to explore the history of this artistic movement.

Day 3: from Giverny to Poses, from Monet’s Water Lilies to the cliffs of Normandy

56 km by bike

The day’s route begins at Château Gaillard in Les Andelys, with a breathtaking view of the Seine, before winding through wild landscapes between limestone cliffs and the river’s meanders to the peaceful village of Poses, bordered by a towpath. For a break in nature, Léry-Poses Park offers a bucolic setting, while the gallery of Post-Impressionist artist Michèle Ratel allows to continue immersing in painting right by the water.

Day 4: from Poses to Rouen, where nature, heritage and history meet

45 km by bike

The journey starts with a visit to Pont-de-l’Arche and Bonport Abbey, followed by Elbeuf, before cycling along the cliffs and through the forest of La Londe-Rouvray to reach Rouen. Once there, it’s time to stroll among the cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that fascinated Monet, the Gros-Horloge, and the half-timbered houses.

Day 5: from Rouen to Jumièges, along the meanders of the Seine

55 km by bike

After visiting Robert le Diable’s castle and taking in the sweeping view of the Seine Valley, a stop in La Bouille, a charming Impressionist village, is a must. A picnic on the banks of the Bas-Caumont, nestled between cliffs and houseboats, makes for a pleasant break before heading along the Route des Fruits, where local produce is available for tasting. The journey ends at the Château du Taillis and its World War II museum, followed by Jumièges Abbey, a Romanesque masterpiece.

Day 6: from Jumièges to the Marais-Vernier, between traditional villages and preserved nature

45 km by bike

From the Maison du Parc des Boucles de la Seine, the route follows the Route des Chaumières through villages with thatched roofs and orchards. From the observation tower in Saint-Opportune-la-Mare, there is a view of the Marais Vernier, a refuge for migratory birds. Here is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the peaceful, wetland landscapes of the Seine Valley.

Day 7: from the Marais-Vernier to Honfleur, between countryside and river heritage

25 km by bike

The first stop of the day is in Berville-sur-Mer, a village with a rich maritime history, featuring its old sailing ships and views of the bridges. Then, a journey through the wild moors of Mont Courel, a natural refuge, leads to Honfleur and its Vieux Bassin, its half-timbered houses, and the Church of Sainte-Catherine, immortalized by Claude Monet and Eugène Boudin. Seafood and cider at the harbor are on today’s menu.

Day 8: from Honfleur to Deauville, a blend of seaside charm and Norman elegance

20 km by bike

This final leg begins with a stroll through the picturesque harbor of Honfleur. The bike ride then winds through orchards and villages before reaching the sea. Deauville, the end point of the trip, offers the chance to enjoy the beaches, its famous boardwalk, and its glamorous atmosphere, complete with its casino and Belle Époque villas.