The Véloscénie is a cycle route that starts in Paris and joins the Bay of Mont Saint Michel. This first part in 5 days will allow you to discover Paris, the Vallée de la Chevreuse, the Rambouilet Forest, the Chateau de Maintenon while passing through Chartres and its magnificent cathedral, through the Parc Naturel du Perche and finally arrive in Nogent le Rotrou and its magnificent castle. This itinerary is the most beautiful green way from Paris which can be done with family or friends because the profile is flat. If you wish, you can follow the second part from Nogent le Rotrou to the Mont Saint Michel to do the whole Véloscenie.
To
see
Luxembourg garden, the fountain of the Observatory, the Orsay -Museum, the Pantheon or the Sorbonne square, Château de Maintenon, Cathedral of Chartres, Perche Regional Natural Park
Gastronomy
The baguette, the cheeses of Ile-de-France, the Opera, the macaron, Pithiviers gingerbread, the camembert of Normandy, the rhubarb
Wine
Black pinot, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Sémillon, the Calvados
Feedbacks
We very much enjoyed our self-guided cycling tour. We had great support and communication in the planning. Throughout our week everything went off as planned.
Mark B.
This was my second experience with Discover France and had, again, an amazing time with my children. If you want to discover, on your own, little cities in France, this is what you have to do.
Linda G.
Our first but certainly not our last trip to beautiful France! The routes were well laid out, the app worked well, the bikes were comfortable and the hotels were excellent.
Ingrid A.
We truly had a glorious time and only have compliments for you and your company. Equipment, information, assistance, accommodation were faultless and Solène at Discovery France took care of us from the first e-mail of enquiry until the end of the cycle trip. We truly can’t wait for our next adventure with Discover France. Anna.V
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Basic : 2* or 3* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Standard : 3* or 4* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
J-1
Arrival in Paris
Arrival in Paris. (transfer on your own to the hotel), Paris isn't just a romantic destination for lovers, here everything is for real! From the Sein which unrolls like a long ribbon adorned with boats, to the "must see" attractions and the picturesque neighborhoods, the capital of France is a place of life, rich in history, but also flourishing in contemporary activity.
Accommodation : Grand Hotel du Loiret*** - Paris 4e arr.
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Accommodation : Best Western Quartier Latin Pantheon*** - Paris
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Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,room
J-2
From Paris to Janvry
Today you will leave Paris where you will be able to admire on your way the Luxembourg garden, the fountain of the Observatory, the Orsay Museum, the Pantheon or the Sorbonne square.
Take the time to discover the charm of the capital. You will leave Paris via Montparnasse, do not hesitate to stop and climb to the top of the famous Montparnasse tower where you can admire a spectacular view. You will then head towards the outskirts of Paris, the Essonne and finally Janvry. The itinerary will take you to the Coulée Verte in the south of Paris.
Distance : 36 km (22 mi).
Elevation : 400 m.
Accommodation : Domaine de Marguerite - Janvry
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Accommodation : La Villa Rochette - Forges-les-Bains
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Accommodation : La Villa Rochette - Forges-les-Bains
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),dinner (no drinks),bedroom and breakfast the next morning
Today direction Janvry, on your way you will come across the mill of Villeuneuve in Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines. You will also cross magnificent natural landscapes with forests and rivers. You will cross the forest of Rambouillet to discover this charming city in the middle. Take advantage of a few hours to stroll through the streets of Rambouillet. Once arrived in Epernon let yourself be carried through the streets of this city of character to discover the church of Saint-Pierre dating from the 16th century and the old buildings.
Distance : 55 Km (33 mi).
Elevation : 340 m.
Accommodation : B&B La Closerie - Droue sur Drouette
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Discover now the Eure valley on this rural stage which will make you discover the road of the secret love of the Sun King, Louis XIV and Madame de Maintenon with her castle of Maintenon. You will first follow the Eure river to reach Maintenon, take a short break to visit this magnificent castle. As you approach Chartres, you will see the cathedral of Chartres, an essential asset of this stage on the road of the Véloscénie.
Distance : 40 Km (25 mi).
Elevation : 210 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Le Boeuf Couronne*** - Chartres
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Accommodation : Hotel Le Boeuf Couronne*** - Chartres
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Accommodation : Hotel Jehan de Beauce**** - Chartres
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning
For this day, you will go to Illiers-Combray. Throughout the day's itinerary, you will discover a country landscape and enter the Perche Regional Natural Park. You will leave Chartres by crossing the Eure river to head towards the Chartres countryside. Take advantage of this flat stage to recharge your batteries on your bike.
Distance : 33 km (21 mi).
Elevation : 160 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Les Aubépines*** - Illiers Combray
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Accommodation : Hotel Les Aubepines*** - Illiers Combray
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Accommodation : Hotel Les Aubepines*** - Illiers Combray
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning
During this day, you will be in the hills of the Perche, at the end of the first efforts you will be in a beautiful natural landscape. During this stage, you will cross authentic villages, take advantage to make small breaks and visit these interesting places. The arrival of the stage will be in Nogent-le-Rotrou, a final effort to reach the castle overlooking the entire Huisne valley awaits you but with a spectacular view.
Distance : 43 km (27 mi).
Elevation : 350 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Sully*** - Nogent le Rotrou
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Accommodation : Hotel Sully*** - Nogent le Rotrou
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Accommodation : B&B Saint Jean (3 epis) - Nogent le Rotrou
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast the next morning
You can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). We can help with added nights, car rentals, or other extensions to your travel. To get to Paris you can take the direct train to Nogent le rotrou station without reservation (1h40).
Included : breakfast
CUSTOMIZED TOUR
This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Arrival Paris: You can arrive by plane or train in the heart of the French capital.
Departure Nogent le Rotrou: Train: From Nogent le Rotrou - Paris Montparnasse; 2 hours - many trains all day long
La Véloscenie : A 450 km long cycle route between Paris and Le Mont Saint Michel
The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30unisex (or equivalent)
All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)
With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Rear pannier
Helmet
Odometer
Lock
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next road.
Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump.
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise.
Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)
A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.
Available sizes :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Details
Included
ACCOMODATIONS
- 6 nights of accommodation in hotels or Guest house with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast at each hotel
- 1 dinner
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
GEAR
- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)
SUPPORT
- Orientation by phone with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including detailed maps, touristic information
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)
TRANSFER
- All luggage transfers
Not included
Lodging before and after the trip
Drinks
Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.
Multirisk travel insurance
Other questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
The Grand Hotel du Loiret is located in Paris, a 10-minute walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum. Its 24-hour reception offers rooms with LCD satellite TV, safe and free Wi-Fi.
Served by an elevator, each of its soundproofed accommodations is equipped with a door and a closet. En suite bathrooms feature a hairdryer and free toiletries.
The continental breakfast includes cheeses, French pastries and cereals. Vending machines are available in the Grand Hotel du Loiret lobby.
A luggage storage service is also available on site. The hotel is 650 metres from the Pompidou Centre and a 12-minute walk from the Place des Vosges.
https://www.hotelduloiret.fr/fr/contact-us.html
Ideally located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, within walking distance from the rue Mouffetard, The Pantheon, the Botanical Gardens and the National History Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. The Best Western Quartier Latin Pantheon provides 37 guest rooms entirely air conditioned in 2005 and redecorated in a modern style in 2006.
http://www.bestwestern-quartier-latin.com/en/
Located a few metres from the Champs Elysées, in a charming quiet street between the prestigious avenues CARNOT and MAC MAHON, the BALMORAL 4 **** hotel offers you the discreet luxury of a real "Demeure". Housed in a typical 19th century Haussmannian house with wrought iron balconies, this hotel was entirely renovated in 2014 by Interior Designer Michel JOUANNET. It has 50 rooms, elegant suites and luxury flats. The hotel characterizes the Parisian elegance.
https://balmoral-paris-hotel.com/fr/
Located in Janvry, in the Ile-de-France region, Domaine De Marguerite offers comfortable rooms and trailers for couples or families. Come and relax in a natural setting. You can also enjoy the restaurant in the heart of the domain.
https://www.domainedemarguerite.com/fr
Villa Rochette is a haven of peace 30 minutes from Paris, in the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse. This characterful early 19th-century residence, steeped in history and contemporary in style, offers a certain “douceur de vivre” and a feeling of being right at home.
https://www.lavillarochette.fr/
Villa Rochette is a haven of peace 30 minutes from Paris, in the Haute Vallée de Chevreuse. This characterful early 19th-century residence, steeped in history and contemporary in style, offers a certain “douceur de vivre” and a feeling of being right at home.
https://www.lavillarochette.fr/
Located in Droue-sur-Drouette, 31 km from Chartres, La Closerie features a common lounge and free Wi-Fi internet access.
This bed and breakfast features a flat-screen TV and an en suite bathroom with hairdryer, free toiletries and shower.
During your stay at LA CLOSERIE, you can enjoy a buffet or American breakfast.
You can enjoy a terrace and a garden.
https://www.chambres-hotes.fr/chambres-hotes_la-closerie_droue-sur-drouette_h2660105.htm
Located in Épernon, 25 km from Chartres Municipal Theater, L'EPI HOTEL offers a restaurant, free private parking, a bar and a shared lounge. Featuring a garden, this 3-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and private bathroom. It offers a 24-hour front desk and room service.
All rooms include a desk and a flat-screen TV. The accommodations include a wardrobe.
EPI HOTEL serves a continental breakfast.
A terrace is also available.
https://www.epi-hotel.com/
Located in Hanches, Le Colombier de Hanches features a restaurant, a seasonal outdoor pool, a bar and a shared lounge. Guests enjoy a sunny terrace, as well as free Wi-Fi and private parking.
All rooms have a desk, flat-screen TV and private bathroom.
Le Colombier de Hanches serves a continental breakfast.
Guests can play tennis on site and enjoy hiking and biking in the surrounding area.
https://www.lecolombier-de-hanches.com/fr
In the Centre Val-de-Loire region, in Chartres, close to its famous cathedral and its pedestrian streets, the granddaughter of the founder of the place, Marie-Christine, her son, her daughter-in-law and all their team will give you a warm and family welcome. Four generations have succeeded one another here to make the former post office relay "Le Bœuf Couronné" bought in 1919 by the ancestor Gaston Peillon, the hotel*** restaurant that it is today.
In this hotel 17 modern and comfortable rooms, a restaurant "L'Amphitryon", a wine bar "Le Christie's - Cocktails and pleasure", three lounges for your receptions and a terrace with a view on the cathedral are waiting for you.
https://www.leboeufcouronne.com/
In the Centre Val-de-Loire region, in Chartres, close to its famous cathedral and its pedestrian streets, the granddaughter of the founder of the place, Marie-Christine, her son, her daughter-in-law and all their team will give you a warm and family welcome. Four generations have succeeded one another here to make the former post office relay "Le Bœuf Couronné" bought in 1919 by the ancestor Gaston Peillon, the hotel*** restaurant that it is today.
In this hotel 17 modern and comfortable rooms, a restaurant "L'Amphitryon", a wine bar "Le Christie's - Cocktails and pleasure", three lounges for your receptions and a terrace with a view on the cathedral are waiting for you.
https://www.leboeufcouronne.com/
The Hotel Jehan De Beauce welcomes you in its 35 rooms in the heart of the historic city of Chartres, opposite the train station and two minutes walk from the Notre Dame de Chartres Cathedral. Entirely renovated in 2014, it will be a charming 1930s-style hotel as it was originally, with rooms and suites in art deco or art nouveau style. Ideally located, you can discover the jewels of the city of Chartres, and the numerous restaurants in the surroundings.
Our restaurant Le Jehan offers you a warm and distinguished welcome in an elegant and cosy setting. Here, the pleasure of the palate is supported by a selection of dishes made with local products, a selection of mature cheeses and exceptional wines.
http://www.jehandebeauce.fr/
Called Les Aubépines in homage to Marcel Proust who made Combray the heart of novels, this establishment of character has an elegant charm that the author would not have disavowed. With its pretty garden planted with splendid old roses, Hotel Les Aubépines is an ideal place to follow in the footsteps of Marcel Proust. This 3-star Logis Hotel offers quality accommodation.
The 12 rooms (including 1 for disabled guests) were completely redesigned in 2016 thanks to major works. Sober and timeless, the rooms of the Hôtel les Aubépines are particularly spacious.
https://www.hotel-lesaubepines.com/
Called Les Aubépines in homage to Marcel Proust who made Combray the heart of novels, this establishment of character has an elegant charm that the author would not have disavowed. With its pretty garden planted with splendid old roses, Hotel Les Aubépines is an ideal place to follow in the footsteps of Marcel Proust. This 3-star Logis Hotel offers quality accommodation.
The 12 rooms (including 1 for disabled guests) were completely redesigned in 2016 thanks to major works. Sober and timeless, the rooms of the Hôtel les Aubépines are particularly spacious.
https://www.hotel-lesaubepines.com/
Called Les Aubépines in homage to Marcel Proust who made Combray the heart of novels, this establishment of character has an elegant charm that the author would not have disavowed. With its pretty garden planted with splendid old roses, Hotel Les Aubépines is an ideal place to follow in the footsteps of Marcel Proust. This 3-star Logis Hotel offers quality accommodation.
The 12 rooms (including 1 for disabled guests) were completely redesigned in 2016 thanks to major works. Sober and timeless, the rooms of the Hôtel les Aubépines are particularly spacious.
https://www.hotel-lesaubepines.com/
The hotel Sully welcomes you for your stay in Nogent Le Rotrou, capital of the Perche region located between Chartres and Le Mans, in a quiet area of the city centre. This hotel is an ideal stopover to visit the town, dominated by the Château Saint-Jean, or to discover this picturesque region between hills and valleys.
Guestrooms are quiet and functional and equipped with all modern comforts, including TV and free Wi-Fi internet access. The hotel features a lounge with a bar and TV, a room for your seminars and meetings, as well as an enclosed car park.
http://www.hotelsullynogent.fr/
The hotel Sully welcomes you for your stay in Nogent Le Rotrou, capital of the Perche region located between Chartres and Le Mans, in a quiet area of the city centre. This hotel is an ideal stopover to visit the town, dominated by the Château Saint-Jean, or to discover this picturesque region between hills and valleys.
Guestrooms are quiet and functional and equipped with all modern comforts, including TV and free Wi-Fi internet access. The hotel features a lounge with a bar and TV, a room for your seminars and meetings, as well as an enclosed car park.
http://www.hotelsullynogent.fr/
In the heart of the Perche region, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Paris, the rooms of h Saint Jean are an invitation to a lovely nature getaway offering the comfort of a warm house where nothing has been left to chance. Indeed, realizing his dream of creating a place dedicated to hospitality, Anthony, a craftsman by trade, helped by his wife Laurence, has designed this place for the happiness of his guests. 2 rooms on the first floor with their own private bathrooms.
https://chambres-dhotes-saint-jean.business.site/