France: Normandy & Brittany

Your vacation is about to begin! Spend your first night aloft and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.

A VBT representative will greet you at the airport to start your first day in Paris off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.

After an included breakfast, meet in the hotel lobby at 8:30 a.m. to join private coach transportation to Bayeux, departing at 9:00 a.m. If you’re using your own pedals or saddle, please pack them in your carry-on luggage for easy access. The journey takes approximately 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Upon arrival in Bayeux, meet your VBT trip leaders, who will guide you on a short orientation walk through the medieval city to your hotel. There, you’ll enjoy a light lunch followed by a safety and bike-fitting session.

Your biking adventure begins with a relaxed warm-up ride from your hotel into the lush Norman countryside.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome reception, followed by dinner at the hotel.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up Ride — 12 km (8 miles)

What to Expect:

Your warm-up ride loops into the surrounding countryside, following a combination of quiet roads and dedicated bike lanes.

Cumulative Distance Range: 12 km (8 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning, pedal out of Bayeux into the quiet countryside of Normandy, where fertile pasturelands are dotted with grazing cows and half-timbered farmsteads. Continue toward the German batteries of Longues-sur-Mer to view World War II coastal fortifications dramatically set on a headland overlooking the English Channel.

Next, cycle inland to the Abbey of Longues-sur-Mer for a private guided tour of this former Benedictine abbey. Stroll through its tranquil gardens before sitting down to a generous picnic lunch featuring local specialties, including Normandy apple cider and juice. The region’s orchards have been prized since the 1600s, producing world-class cider and the area’s signature brandy, Calvados.

After lunch, cycle to Port-en-Bessin, the region’s leading fishing port, renowned for its scallops, which hold the prestigious Label Rouge quality mark. Stroll around the harbor to admire colorful fishing boats or browse shops for local goods. Pause for coffee or a refreshing drink along the lively waterfront before continuing your ride back to Bayeux in the afternoon.

The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. You might step inside the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, browse local shops, or relax at a café over coffee or cider. Bayeux also offers excellent museums, including the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum.

This evening, dinner is on your own in town.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Bayeux to German Batteries and Abbey — 13 km (8 miles)

Afternoon: Abbey to Port-en-Bessin and Bayeux — 20 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride takes you to the German coastal batteries perched on a windswept bluff with sweeping views of the English Channel. Expect gentle hills and quiet rural roads, with some exposure to sea breezes near the coast. From there, a gentle descent leads to the Abbey of Longues-sur-Mer for your guided visit and picnic lunch. In the afternoon, ride from the abbey to Port-en-Bessin, enjoying a thrilling downhill stretch before taking time to walk along the quays as fishing boats unload their catch. The final segment follows a mix of bike lanes and quiet country roads back to Bayeux.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 33 km (8 – 21 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, cycle through rolling farmland and timeless Norman villages en route to the coastal town of Arromanches, which played a pivotal role in the D-day landings. Here, the Allies constructed one of the ingenious Mulberry harbors—portable, temporary structures designed to offload troops and supplies. Remnants of the harbor are still visible offshore at low tide.

During an included audio-guided visit to the D-day Museum, learn more about the harbor’s history and its impact on the success of the Allied invasion. For additional independent exploration, you may visit Arromanches 360, a circular theater that presents a powerful film about D-day and its aftermath, blending wartime footage with present-day images. Enjoy lunch on your own in town—and, if you wish, perhaps even wade into the English Channel!

This afternoon, you may either cycle or shuttle back to Bayeux. Upon your return, you might explore the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the military campaigns that followed D-day, or simply enjoy a stroll through the old town’s narrow lanes lined with cafés and shops.

Later, regroup with your fellow travelers for dinner at the hotel.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Bayeux to Arromanches — 22 km (14 miles)

Afternoon: Arromanches to Bayeux — 12 km (7 miles) OR Arromanches to Bayeux PLUS — 20 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

This morning’s route leads through the rural Norman countryside, passing traditional farms and villages on the way to the coastal town of Arromanches, where you’ll enjoy views of the historic artificial harbor. In the afternoon, if you choose to continue cycling, you can select from shorter or longer routes back to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for independent exploration in Bayeux before regrouping at the hotel for dinner.

Cumulative Distance Range: 12 – 42 km (7 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, cycle through the verdant countryside and fragrant orchards of Normandy, passing stone farmhouses and quiet hamlets on your way to Omaha Beach—perhaps the most well-known of the D-day landing sites. Here, meet your knowledgeable local guide, a World War II historian, who shares compelling insights into the pivotal events that unfolded along this historic coastline.

Pause midday for an included lunch at a nearby restaurant before continuing your guided exploration. Walk along the shoreline and take a moment to reflect on June 6, 1944, when Operation Overlord—the largest military invasion in history—began.

Next, cycle a short distance to the American Cemetery, a 170-acre (69-hectare) memorial overlooking Omaha Beach and the English Channel. Rejoin your guide to learn more about this sacred site, where 9,387 white crosses and Stars of David mark the resting places of American servicemen and women who gave their lives during World War II.

This afternoon, board your private coach for the journey west to Saint-Malo, a striking walled city perched on Brittany’s Emerald Coast. Once the stronghold of French corsairs, Saint-Malo captivates with its massive granite ramparts, golden beaches, and lively Old Town filled with cafés and shops. Your seaside base is a gracious Belle Époque property set directly on the broad sandy beach, offering elegant accommodations and access to its renowned seawater spa and heated indoor Aquatonic pool.

This evening, gather for dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Bayeux to Omaha Beach — 30 km (19 miles)

Afternoon: Omaha Beach to American Cemetery — 9 km (5 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride begins on city streets and bike lanes leading out of Bayeux and into the Normandy countryside. You’ll pass meadows and apple orchards along quiet, narrow roads before reaching Omaha Beach for a guided visit and lunch. In the afternoon, continue with a short but steep ascent to the American Cemetery, where the guided portion concludes. From there, travel by coach to Saint-Malo, arriving around 5:45 p.m.

Cumulative Distance Range: 9 – 39 km (5 – 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, shuttle about 40 minutes to Dinan, one of Brittany’s most picturesque and best-preserved medieval towns. Perched high on a bluff overlooking the River Rance, Dinan boasts nearly two miles of ramparts, a striking 13th-century castle, and winding cobblestone lanes lined with half-timbered houses. Join a local guide for a walking tour through the town’s atmospheric center, which may include visits to the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur or the Church of Saint-Malo—two of Dinan’s most notable Gothic landmarks. After the tour, enjoy free time to browse the market stalls, explore artisan workshops, or relax in a café before lunch on your own.

Reunite with your bike at Dinan’s riverside port and set off on a scenic ride along the River Rance. Pause to explore Saint-Suliac, a charming fishing village often listed among “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” where granite cottages are adorned with fishing nets and colorful flowers.

Later this afternoon, return to Saint-Malo, the legendary corsair city whose walled Old Town brims with ramparts, narrow cobbled lanes, and a lively harbor. Your hotel is ideally situated on the broad sandy beach, with direct access to the seaside promenade. You might choose to unwind at the hotel’s spa, swim in the ocean (weather permitting), or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Dinner is on your own this evening, with recommendations from your Trip Leaders.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Dinan to Saint-Suliac — 26 km (16 miles) | Saint-Suliac to Saint-Malo — 19 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

After a tour and time to explore Dinan’s market, begin your ride from this beautifully preserved Breton town along a gentle, designated bike route that follows the Rance River. The path includes a few miles of hard-packed gravel before reaching the charming fishing port of Saint-Suliac. For those choosing the longer option, the ride continues from Saint-Suliac along quiet country roads before transitioning to the slightly busier streets leading into Saint-Malo.

Cumulative Distance Range: 19 – 45 km (12 – 28 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today’s ride traces the beautifully rugged Brittany coast, where crashing waves meet dramatic headlands. En route, pause at the Jacques Cartier Manor House, the former home of France’s most celebrated explorer. In 1534, Cartier sailed across the Atlantic and up the St. Lawrence River as far as present-day Montreal, naming the land “Canada.” After his explorations, he returned to his native Brittany and lived here. During your visit, you’ll watch a short film and gain insight into his remarkable voyages.

Continue cycling to Pointe du Grouin, a windswept promontory offering sweeping views of the Channel Islands and the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. Your destination is the picturesque fishing port of Cancale, world-famous for its oysters. So prized were these huîtres that King Louis XIV had them delivered daily to Versailles. Stroll through the lively oyster market, where you can sample them fresh from the sea alongside locals and fishermen.

After lunch on your own in Cancale, loop back to Saint-Malo along a different scenic route. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the town’s walled Old Town, with its cobbled lanes, ramparts, and inviting boutiques—perfect for picking up Breton striped shirts, salted caramels, or bottles of local cider. Or, if you prefer, relax at a café or unwind in the hotel’s renowned Aquatonic Course, with its seawater pools and spa amenities.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for an apéritif at the hotel before a festive farewell dinner celebrating the flavors of Brittany.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Saint-Malo to Cancale — 24 km (15 miles)

Afternoon: Cancale to Saint-Malo — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect:

Admire sweeping views as you ride along the rugged Brittany coastline to Cancale this morning. In the afternoon, extend your ride inland through a fertile agricultural region known for its diverse vegetable crops.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 37 km (8 – 23 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, say goodbye to your VBT Trip Leaders and depart for Paris, stopping en route at one of France’s most iconic landmarks: Mont Saint-Michel.

Upon arrival, meet your local guide in the parking area, then accompany them across the causeway to the island village. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this cone-shaped island is famed for its spectacular and well-preserved 13th-century Benedictine abbey, perched approximately 240 feet (73 meters) above sea level. Your guided walking tour includes the abbey and its soaring Gothic halls, along with the narrow medieval streets that spiral through the village.

Afterward, enjoy free time for lunch and personal exploration. You might stroll the medieval ramparts for sweeping views of the bay, browse shops for regional specialties such as salted butter caramels and cider, or pause at a café or crêperie to soak in the island’s unique atmosphere. Be sure to take in the changing tides—part of Mont Saint-Michel’s magic—when the surrounding sands are transformed by the sea, creating dramatic and ever-shifting views.

Later, rejoin the coach for the onward journey to Versailles. The drive to your hotel takes approximately 5¼ hours, including a required stop en route to stretch your legs, use the restroom, and purchase snacks or beverages. You will arrive at your hotel at approximately 6:30 p.m., though timing may vary with traffic.

After checking in at the Hotel Le Louis Versailles Château – MGallery, located just steps from the gates of the Palace of Versailles, the evening is yours to relax and explore at leisure. This elegant property combines refined modern style with historic grandeur, offering an inviting atmosphere after your day’s travels. You might take a short stroll through the town’s elegant streets, pause at a café with views of the palace, or simply enjoy the ambiance of Versailles at dusk. If you prefer, unwind at the hotel’s lounge or spa facilities and soak in the refined setting.

Dinner is on your own this evening, with excellent options both at the hotel and in town. Your City Highlights include recommendations to help you make the most of your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, complimentary transportation will be provided to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport—a drive of approximately 60 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic—for your departing flight.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Meet your fellow travelers and VBT representative in the lobby of the Hotel Rochester in Paris at 8:30 a.m. for a 9:00 a.m. departure by private coach to Bayeux. Travel time is approximately 3.5 hours, depending on traffic.

Upon arrival in Bayeux, meet your VBT trip leaders. They will guide you on a short orientation walk through the medieval city to your hotel, where you’ll enjoy a light lunch before the safety and bike-fitting session.

Your biking adventure begins with a gentle warm-up ride from your hotel into the verdant Norman countryside.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome reception, followed by dinner at the hotel.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up Ride — 12 km (8 miles)

What to Expect:

Your warm-up ride loops into the surrounding countryside, following a combination of quiet roads and dedicated bike lanes.

Cumulative Distance Range: 12 km (8 miles)

Included Meals: Lunch, Dinner

This morning, pedal out of Bayeux into the quiet countryside of Normandy, where fertile pasturelands are dotted with grazing cows and half-timbered farmsteads. Continue toward the German batteries of Longues-sur-Mer to view World War II coastal fortifications dramatically set on a headland overlooking the English Channel.

Next, cycle inland to the Abbey of Longues-sur-Mer for a private guided tour of this former Benedictine abbey. Stroll through its tranquil gardens before sitting down to a generous picnic lunch featuring local specialties, including Normandy apple cider and juice. The region’s orchards have been prized since the 1600s, producing world-class cider and the area’s signature brandy, Calvados.

After lunch, cycle to Port-en-Bessin, the region’s leading fishing port, renowned for its scallops, which hold the prestigious Label Rouge quality mark. Stroll around the harbor to admire colorful fishing boats or browse shops for local goods. Pause for coffee or a refreshing drink along the lively waterfront before continuing your ride back to Bayeux in the afternoon.

The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. You might step inside the Cathédrale Notre-Dame, browse local shops, or relax at a café over coffee or cider. Bayeux also offers excellent museums, including the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum.

This evening, dinner is on your own in town.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Bayeux to German Batteries and Abbey — 13 km (8 miles)

Afternoon: Abbey to Port-en-Bessin and Bayeux — 20 km (13 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride takes you to the German coastal batteries perched on a windswept bluff with sweeping views of the English Channel. Expect gentle hills and quiet rural roads, with some exposure to sea breezes near the coast. From there, a gentle descent leads to the Abbey of Longues-sur-Mer for your guided visit and picnic lunch. In the afternoon, ride from the abbey to Port-en-Bessin, enjoying a thrilling downhill stretch before taking time to walk along the quays as fishing boats unload their catch. The final segment follows a mix of bike lanes and quiet country roads back to Bayeux.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 33 km (8 – 21 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, cycle through rolling farmland and timeless Norman villages en route to the coastal town of Arromanches, which played a pivotal role in the D-day landings. Here, the Allies constructed one of the ingenious Mulberry harbors—portable, temporary structures designed to offload troops and supplies. Remnants of the harbor are still visible offshore at low tide.

During an included audio-guided visit to the D-day Museum, learn more about the harbor’s history and its impact on the success of the Allied invasion. For additional independent exploration, you may visit Arromanches 360, a circular theater that presents a powerful film about D-day and its aftermath, blending wartime footage with present-day images. Enjoy lunch on your own in town—and, if you wish, perhaps even wade into the English Channel!

This afternoon, you may either cycle or shuttle back to Bayeux. Upon your return, you might explore the Battle of Normandy Memorial Museum, which offers an in-depth look at the military campaigns that followed D-day, or simply enjoy a stroll through the old town’s narrow lanes lined with cafés and shops.

Later, regroup with your fellow travelers for dinner at the hotel.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Bayeux to Arromanches — 22 km (14 miles)

Afternoon: Arromanches to Bayeux — 12 km (7 miles) OR Arromanches to Bayeux PLUS — 20 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

This morning’s route leads through the rural Norman countryside, passing traditional farms and villages on the way to the coastal town of Arromanches, where you’ll enjoy views of the historic artificial harbor. In the afternoon, if you choose to continue cycling, you can select from shorter or longer routes back to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for independent exploration in Bayeux before regrouping at the hotel for dinner.

Cumulative Distance Range: 12 – 42 km (7 – 26 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

This morning, cycle through the verdant countryside and fragrant orchards of Normandy, passing stone farmhouses and quiet hamlets on your way to Omaha Beach—perhaps the most well-known of the D-day landing sites. Here, meet your knowledgeable local guide, a World War II historian, who shares compelling insights into the pivotal events that unfolded along this historic coastline.

Pause midday for an included lunch at a nearby restaurant before continuing your guided exploration. Walk along the shoreline and take a moment to reflect on June 6, 1944, when Operation Overlord—the largest military invasion in history—began.

Next, cycle a short distance to the American Cemetery, a 170-acre (69-hectare) memorial overlooking Omaha Beach and the English Channel. Rejoin your guide to learn more about this sacred site, where 9,387 white crosses and Stars of David mark the resting places of American servicemen and women who gave their lives during World War II.

This afternoon, board your private coach for the journey west to Saint-Malo, a striking walled city perched on Brittany’s Emerald Coast. Once the stronghold of French corsairs, Saint-Malo captivates with its massive granite ramparts, golden beaches, and lively Old Town filled with cafés and shops. Your seaside base is a gracious Belle Époque property set directly on the broad sandy beach, offering elegant accommodations and access to its renowned seawater spa and heated indoor Aquatonic pool.

This evening, gather for dinner at a nearby restaurant.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Bayeux to Omaha Beach — 30 km (19 miles)

Afternoon: Omaha Beach to American Cemetery — 9 km (5 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s ride begins on city streets and bike lanes leading out of Bayeux and into the Normandy countryside. You’ll pass meadows and apple orchards along quiet, narrow roads before reaching Omaha Beach for a guided visit and lunch. In the afternoon, continue with a short but steep ascent to the American Cemetery, where the guided portion concludes. From there, travel by coach to Saint-Malo, arriving around 5:45 p.m.

Cumulative Distance Range: 9 – 39 km (5 – 24 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, shuttle about 40 minutes to Dinan, one of Brittany’s most picturesque and best-preserved medieval towns. Perched high on a bluff overlooking the River Rance, Dinan boasts nearly two miles of ramparts, a striking 13th-century castle, and winding cobblestone lanes lined with half-timbered houses. Join a local guide for a walking tour through the town’s atmospheric center, which may include visits to the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur or the Church of Saint-Malo—two of Dinan’s most notable Gothic landmarks. After the tour, enjoy free time to browse the market stalls, explore artisan workshops, or relax in a café before lunch on your own.

Reunite with your bike at Dinan’s riverside port and set off on a scenic ride along the River Rance. Pause to explore Saint-Suliac, a charming fishing village often listed among “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” where granite cottages are adorned with fishing nets and colorful flowers.

Later this afternoon, return to Saint-Malo, the legendary corsair city whose walled Old Town brims with ramparts, narrow cobbled lanes, and a lively harbor. Your hotel is ideally situated on the broad sandy beach, with direct access to the seaside promenade. You might choose to unwind at the hotel’s spa, swim in the ocean (weather permitting), or take a leisurely stroll along the shore. Dinner is on your own this evening, with recommendations from your Trip Leaders.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Dinan to Saint-Suliac — 26 km (16 miles) | Saint-Suliac to Saint-Malo — 19 km (12 miles)

What to Expect:

After a tour and time to explore Dinan’s market, begin your ride from this beautifully preserved Breton town along a gentle, designated bike route that follows the Rance River. The path includes a few miles of hard-packed gravel before reaching the charming fishing port of Saint-Suliac. For those choosing the longer option, the ride continues from Saint-Suliac along quiet country roads before transitioning to the slightly busier streets leading into Saint-Malo.

Cumulative Distance Range: 19 – 45 km (12 – 28 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today’s ride traces the beautifully rugged Brittany coast, where crashing waves meet dramatic headlands. En route, pause at the Jacques Cartier Manor House, the former home of France’s most celebrated explorer. In 1534, Cartier sailed across the Atlantic and up the St. Lawrence River as far as present-day Montreal, naming the land “Canada.” After his explorations, he returned to his native Brittany and lived here. During your visit, you’ll watch a short film and gain insight into his remarkable voyages.

Continue cycling to Pointe du Grouin, a windswept promontory offering sweeping views of the Channel Islands and the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. Your destination is the picturesque fishing port of Cancale, world-famous for its oysters. So prized were these huîtres that King Louis XIV had them delivered daily to Versailles. Stroll through the lively oyster market, where you can sample them fresh from the sea alongside locals and fishermen.

After lunch on your own in Cancale, loop back to Saint-Malo along a different scenic route. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore the town’s walled Old Town, with its cobbled lanes, ramparts, and inviting boutiques—perfect for picking up Breton striped shirts, salted caramels, or bottles of local cider. Or, if you prefer, relax at a café or unwind in the hotel’s renowned Aquatonic Course, with its seawater pools and spa amenities.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for an apéritif at the hotel before a festive farewell dinner celebrating the flavors of Brittany.

Today's Ride Choices

Morning: Saint-Malo to Cancale — 24 km (15 miles)

Afternoon: Cancale to Saint-Malo — 13 km (8 miles)

What to Expect:

Admire sweeping views as you ride along the rugged Brittany coastline to Cancale this morning. In the afternoon, extend your ride inland through a fertile agricultural region known for its diverse vegetable crops.

Cumulative Distance Range: 13 – 37 km (8 – 23 miles)

Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, say goodbye to your VBT trip leaders. As you are not continuing with our Post-Tour package, you have two options for concluding your journey:

You are welcome to join us for an all-day coach transfer that includes a visit to one of France’s most iconic landmarks: Mont Saint-Michel. Upon arrival, meet your local guide in the Mont Saint-Michel parking area, then accompany them across the causeway through the Gulf of Saint-Malo to the island village. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the cone-shaped island is famed for its spectacular and well-preserved 13th-century Benedictine abbey, perched approximately 240 feet (73 meters) above sea level. Your guide will lead you through the narrow medieval streets that spiral up to the Gothic monastic buildings. Afterward, enjoy free time for lunch and to explore the shops and atmospheric alleyways on your own. Then rejoin the coach for the journey to Versailles, where the tour officially ends at the hotel Le Louis Versailles Château around 6:30 p.m. From there, you are free to continue your travels independently.

Alternatively, you may choose to end your tour in Saint-Malo and make your own departure arrangements from the Grand Hôtel des Thermes. Checkout time is 11:00 a.m. Trains depart from Saint-Malo to Paris Montparnasse or Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport via Rennes. A taxi to the Saint-Malo train station takes under 10 minutes. You are responsible for your own transportation. We recommend asking your VBT trip leaders or the hotel staff for assistance with travel reservations at least one day in advance.

Included Meals: Breakfast