Cycling between the castles and forests of Île-de-France
In summary
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Sports
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Duration3 days
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LevelConfirmed
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DestinationFrance / Ile-de-France
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AgeFrom 18 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions24.18 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Set off on a cycling tour along the royal roads of western Île-de-France , discovering the region's architectural and natural treasures. This three-day, 232km circuit , starting from Paris , is aimed at intermediate to experienced cyclists looking for a sporting challenge and cultural enrichment .
Between majestic forests , charming villages and historical sites , each stage reveals a facet of the heritage of Île-de-France . From the Noisy coast to the Houdan keep , passing through the castles of Thoiry , Maintenon or Rambouillet , this route invites you to immerse yourself in the heart of history.
The second day offers a bucolic interlude along the Avre aqueduct , before a well-deserved night in a comfortable hotel . Finally, the route culminates with the legendary climb of the 17 bends and the triumphant arrival in the gardens of the Palace of Versailles .
An active weekend, between effort and wonder , ideal for lovers of wide open spaces , cycling and French culture .
The highlights
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Discover the iconic castles of Île-de-France
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A varied itinerary combining nature and heritage
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Sporting challenges adapted for intermediate cyclists
Photos
Sport
Level
Road cycling
Management
Program
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A sporty getaway to Houdan, between coasts, forests and castles
- Activity Road bike
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Embark on an 86km cycling adventure through the diverse landscapes of the Île-de-France region. The journey begins with the climb up the Noisy road , a steady 6-7% gradient , perfect for warming up. You'll then cross the Marly forest , offering a cooler and more peaceful respite, before reaching the Château de Tremblay-sur-Mauldre . The route continues towards the Châteaux of Thoiry and Béhoust , before a well-deserved break at the fortified farm of La Troche . The final push takes you to the Houdan keep , the endpoint of this loop rich in heritage and memorable experiences.
Day 1 -
From Houdan to Rambouillet, between aqueducts and castles
- Activity Road bike
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Starting in Houdan , this 82km loop is a true heritage experience. You'll begin by following the Avre aqueduct , an impressive structure that will guide your first pedal strokes. A stop is a must at the Château de Mormoulins before continuing towards the splendid Château de Maintenon , a true testament to French history. The final stretch winds through peaceful countryside , culminating at the majestic Château de Rambouillet , marking the end of this regal stage.
Day 2 -
From Rambouillet to Versailles, the culmination of a cycling adventure
- Activity Road bike
- Accommodation 3-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
This final stage from Rambouillet to Versailles blends cycling challenges with historical richness along a prestigious route. The start is gentle, passing by the Château de Dampierre , nestled in the heart of the valley. Next comes the climb of the Côte des 17 Tournants (Côte of 17 Turns) , renowned for its hairpin bends and its importance in the cycling culture of the Île-de-France region. Your effort rewarded, you finally reach the Palace of Versailles and its magnificent gardens , an exceptional setting to conclude this cycling adventure in style.
Day 3
Note
Day 1: Paris - Houdan
distance: 86 km
Time: 4h30
positive elevation gain: 670m
Route type: 50% cycle path, 35% road (including cycle route), 10% street, 5% path
Day 2: Houdan - Rambouillet
distance: 82 km
Time: 4h30
positive elevation gain: 320 m
Route type: 30% cycle path, 50% road (including cycle route), 20% paths/trails
Day 3: Rambouillet - Versailles
distance: 64 km
Time: 3 hours
positive elevation gain: 520
Route type: 35% cycle path, 35% road (including cycle route), 20% path, 10% street
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
From Paris-Nord train station :
- Metro : Take metro line 4 from Gare du Nord station to Réaumur - Sébastopol . The journey takes approximately 5 minutes, followed by a 5-minute walk to Rue de Cléry.
- Bus : Line 39 takes you from Gare du Nord to Poissonnière - Bonne Nouvelle in about 13 minutes, followed by a 5-minute walk.
From Gare de Lyon :
- Metro : Take line 14 to Châtelet , then change to line 4 to Réaumur - Sébastopol . The total journey takes approximately 15 minutes, followed by a 5-minute walk.
From Montparnasse Station :
- Metro : Take line 4 directly to Réaumur - Sébastopol . The journey takes approximately 15 minutes, followed by a 5-minute walk.
Price details
The price includes
- Accommodation in single rooms on days 1 and 2 in guesthouses or hotels
- Trip organization
- GPX track
The price does not include
- Luggage transport
- Transportation from your home
- Meals
Options
- Road bike rental : CHF137.22 / unit
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
- Bicycle helmet
- Poncho
- Anti-theft
- Tire repair spray
- Phone holder
- Multi-tool
- 2 x 20L panniers
- Repair kit
Equipment to bring
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Cap or buff
- Cycling gloves
- External battery
- Charging cables
Clothing to bring
- Cycling jersey or breathable technical t-shirt
- Windproof and/or waterproof jacket
- Thermal underlayer (if cold)
- Cycling shorts or bib shorts
- Long tights or waterproof over-trousers (if it's cold or raining)
- Lightweight gloves (summer) or thermal gloves (winter)
- Technical socks
- Buff / neck warmer
- Beanie under helmet (if cold)
- Comfortable T-shirt
- Fleece or lightweight down jacket
- Lightweight trousers or shorts
- Tights or leggings (if cold)
- Lightweight sandals or flip-flops
- Appropriate shoes
- Waterproof overshoes
- Rain pants
- Breathable waterproof jacket
- Warm hat and gloves
The Alexis team
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