Paris to Deauville by bike: the Seine in the heart of Normandy

Today you enter a landscape reminiscent of a masterpiece painting. As you progress, orchards , hills , and the meanders of the Seine create an increasingly pastoral scene. The route leads you through unspoiled nature, marking the gradual transition between Île-de-France and Normandy . Upon arrival in Giverny , you'll discover the home of Claude Monet . A visit to his house , his flower-filled gardens , and the famous water lily pond offers a direct immersion into the places that inspired the Impressionist movement. This stage perfectly combines cycling , artistic discovery , and cultural heritage .

Leave behind Monet's legendary gardens and follow the meanders of the Seine through the heart of the Normandy landscape. On the way to Aux Andelys , the terrain rises dramatically against the backdrop of majestic limestone cliffs . There, you'll discover the ruins of Château Gaillard , the famous fortress built by Richard the Lionheart, offering a breathtaking view of one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region. The cycle route continues peacefully, between verdant hills and river heritage , until you arrive in Poses . In this former village of boatmen , the towpaths and houses lining the water's edge bear witness to the river's history.

Today you'll cycle up the Seine to reach the Norman capital. Your route begins by crossing Pont-de-l'Arche and its charming medieval streets , before passing Bonport Abbey and former cloth-making towns like Elbeuf . The path then winds between the impressive chalk cliffs and the verdant setting of the La Londe-Rouvray forest . At the end of this accessible stage, the silhouette of Rouen 's spires appears on the horizon. All that's left is for you to park your bike and stroll through the heart of the historic center , among the half-timbered houses , the iconic Gros-Horloge (Great Clock) , and the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral .

You leave Rouen to immerse yourself in the landscapes of the Seine Valley in Normandy , following the river's meanders and charming villages. In La Bouille , the colorful facades lining the water's edge perfectly illustrate what captivated the Impressionist painters . The route then follows the famous Fruit Route , where apple and pear trees punctuate your journey through the heart of the local countryside. Your day ends in Jumièges , where the imposing ruins of the thousand-year-old abbey stand facing the river, providing a magnificent backdrop to conclude this day of cycling.

Today, we're exploring Normandy's thatched cottages , orchards , and vast, unspoiled landscapes. In the heart of the Boucles de la Seine Normande Regional Natural Park , you'll follow the famous Thatched Cottage Route . The route winds its way through typical villages where thatched roofs , dovecotes , and timber-framed architecture bear witness to an authentic rural heritage. The landscape then opens onto the vast wetland of the Marais-Vernier . Amidst reedbeds , meadows , and the river's ancient meanders, you'll cycle in a calm and enchanting atmosphere, ideal for observing the flora and fauna of the Norman estuary .

The sea air becomes noticeable as you make your way towards the coast. Leaving the unspoiled landscapes of the Marais-Vernier , you follow the Seine estuary through a peaceful countryside dotted with hamlets steeped in fishing and sailing traditions. The route leads to the famous Old Port of Honfleur , lined with its iconic narrow houses with slate facades. Take the time to stroll through the cobbled streets , admire the architecture of the entirely wooden Church of Sainte-Catherine, and walk in the footsteps of the Impressionist painters . To conclude this day of exploration, local specialties such as scallops , fresh fish , and Norman cider offer a delightful culinary experience in the heart of the port.

For this final leg of your journey, trade the meanders of the river for the sea spray of the Côte Fleurie . Leave the Vieux Bassin and the half-timbered houses of Honfleur for a short bike ride through the Normandy countryside before reaching the coast. Upon arrival in Deauville , the Belle Époque villas , the beach, and its iconic boardwalk offer a final change of scenery. After Paris, Giverny, Rouen, and Honfleur, end your trip in style facing the English Channel , concluding eight days immersed in Impressionist art , Normandy heritage , and wide-open spaces.