Exploring Normandy by Bicycle: A Journey from Paris to Paris
Embarking on a cycling adventure from Paris to Paris through Normandy offers an immersive experience into the region’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and culinary delights. This journey, spanning approximately 1,600 kilometers, is a testament to the enduring passion of cyclists Gigi and Ida, who have traversed various terrains over the past 35 years. Their latest expedition in August 2025 was a profound exploration of Normandy’s diverse offerings.
Departure from Paris
The journey commenced from their residence in Cene, with bicycles loaded and spirits high. A night-time Flixbus ride transported them to Paris Bercy, where the early morning arrival provided a serene and romantic start to their adventure as dawn illuminated the City of Light.
Along the Seine: Paris to Giverny
Starting their ride along the Seine, Gigi and Ida reveled in the beauty of Paris. A visit to a local boulangerie provided the necessary sustenance before they pedaled through the Champs-Élysées, under the Arc de Triomphe, and onward to Giverny. This enchanting village, home to Monet’s house and gardens, was a highlight. Unfortunately, due to long queues, they couldn’t tour the gardens but appreciated the village’s charm before heading to Les Andelys for the night.
Rouen: A City of Impressionists
The next morning, an early visit to the ruins of Château Gaillard offered breathtaking views of the Seine’s meanders. Continuing to Rouen, the capital of Normandy, they explored its half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and majestic cathedrals. A poignant visit to the Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was martyred, added depth to their historical journey.
The Alabaster Coast: Dieppe to Etretat
Eager to reach the ocean, they arrived in Dieppe, stashed their luggage, and cycled to Le Tréport to witness the grandeur of the Alabaster Coast. The route unveiled magnificent landscapes of cliffs, verdant fields, and vibrant fishing villages. After sampling local oysters in Dieppe, they returned to their hotel, guided by their headlights and the Komoot app.
The following day, they traversed the market in Dieppe, brimming with oysters, seafood, and local produce, before setting course for Etretat. Descending to Veulettes-sur-Mer beach, they were captivated by the imposing cliffs. Continuing to Fécamp, they camped near Saint-Léonard, enjoying a sunset over the sea—a quintessential Normandy experience.
Etretat and the Normandy Cliffs
In Etretat, an early morning hike along the cliffs, accompanied by cows and seagulls, led them to the famous arch. After a hearty breakfast, they explored the beach and took a refreshing dip in the sea. The allure of the D-Day beaches beckoned, prompting their departure through Le Havre and across the Pont de Normandie. They camped in the picturesque Honfleur, savoring cider and the town’s vibrant atmosphere.
Caen and the D-Day Legacy
An early start took them through the seaside towns of Trouville and Deauville to Caen, where they dedicated the afternoon to the D-Day Memorial. The visit profoundly immersed them in the history of June 6, 1944. Eager to visit Omaha Beach, they set off the next morning, passing by monuments and signs commemorating the D-Day landings.
Omaha Beach: A Solemn Tribute
At the British Memorial, reading a soldier’s letter to his family before battle was deeply moving. In Arromanches, they observed the remnants of the artificial harbor and watched a 360° film with countless testimonies. Reaching Omaha Beach, they were struck by the serene and somber atmosphere, with white crosses at the American cemetery in Colleville. The “Les Braves” monument on the beach was a poignant culmination of their journey.
Barfleur and the Authentic Normandy
Continuing to Barfleur via Utah Beach, they experienced the typical Normandy weather—gray and rainy. Barfleur’s gray stone houses epitomized the region’s charm. They observed the tidal shifts in the harbor while enjoying a meal of oysters and mussels.
Through the Norman Countryside to Mont-Saint-Michel
They spent the night in a unique rural house, communicating with the elderly hostess in their limited French. The next morning, a breakfast with local products prepared them for the journey to Coutances. Passing through Cherbourg, they immersed themselves in the Norman countryside, camping in Coutances with a panoramic view of the cathedral.
The destination was Mont-Saint-Michel, the iconic landmark of Normandy. After passing through Granville, they glimpsed the mount in the distance, which grew closer as they approached. The abbey and bay were a fitting conclusion to their 450-kilometer journey.
Return to Paris
With limited days remaining, they considered taking a train to shorten the journey but decided against it to honor their cycling commitment. Planning stops in Alençon and Rambouillet, they faced two challenging stages. They departed, enjoying the countryside with its picturesque rural houses. In Alençon, after a 149 km day, they set up camp and met a fellow cyclist from Perugia, sharing travel stories.
The final stretch took them through the Swiss Normandy, characterized by forested hills and numerous lakes. Approaching Rambouillet, the area became more refined, influenced by the proximity to Versailles and Paris. After 168 km, they arrived at 8:30 PM, finding the campsite reception closed. Fortunately, most French campsites offer “Accueil Vélo,” ensuring cyclists always have a place to stay.
A Pleasant Surprise
During dinner at the campsite, they met a Milanese cyclist who had just completed his journey. Remarkably, he was friends with the Perugia cyclist they had met earlier. The world felt small, and the unexpected encounters enriched their experience.
These last two stages brought them closer to Paris, allowing for a relaxing final day with visits to the beauties of Versailles and Paris. After touring the magnificent gardens of the palace, they headed to the Eiffel Tower, capturing a photo with their bikes in front of the five Olympic rings. Then, they cycled to the beautiful Montmartre and concluded at the restored Notre Dame Cathedral.
The End of the Journey
While photographing the cathedral, their fully loaded bikes attracted the attention of a Spanish tourist who inquired about their journey. They shared stories in a mix of Spanish, English, Italian, and French, understanding each other perfectly.
As evening fell, they enjoyed a typical dinner in the Spanish Quarter and retraced the Seine to Bercy station. The night bus took them back to Milan Lampugnano, and from there, they cycled home to Cene, concluding their journey—1,600 km with their faithful bicycles that never let them down.
A sense of sadness lingered as they realized the trip had ended, but the memories of the immense Normandy would stay with them forever.
Discover More Travel Stories at the Cycling Tourism Fair
If this account has inspired you, don’t miss the upcoming Cycling Tourism Fair 2026 in Padua from March 27 to 29. There, you’ll find stories, experiences, destinations, and practical advice to plan your next cycling vacation.