Cycling from Annecy to Valence via the Belle Via

You leave Albertville for a 39km stage with easy terrain, winding along the Isère Valley. This route immerses you in the unspoiled heart of Savoy, where cycle paths hug the contours of the land between the Bauges and Belledonne mountain ranges. Along the way, you'll pass through typical villages with baroque churches and colorful facades. The route runs alongside the famous Savoy vineyards, offering the perfect opportunity to stop at a winery and discover local wines. Your journey continues between mountains and hillsides until you arrive in Sainte-Hélène-du-Lac. This peaceful village, nestled at the foot of the Alpine foothills, offers a relaxing setting to end your day of cycling in complete serenity.

You're embarking on a 46km stage from Sainte-Hélène-du-Lac to Grenoble. The route follows La Belle Via, a safe cycle path that winds through the Isère Valley. Throughout this gradual descent, you'll enjoy spectacular scenery where the Chartreuse and Belledonne mountain ranges meet. As you approach the Alpine city, the peaks of the Vercors come into view on the horizon, framing the city in a truly mineral setting. Once you arrive, you can explore the historic center, strolling through Place Grenette or Place Saint-André. To end the day, a cable car ride in the famous "bubbles" takes you to the Bastille Fort. At 476m altitude, this promontory offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding peaks, marking a beautiful end to your journey.

You leave Grenoble for a 50km stage on La Belle Via, heading towards Saint-Marcellin. This flat and safe route follows the meanders of the Isère River, offering a smooth ride through the heart of the famous walnut groves and orchards of the Dauphiné region. As you cycle, the imposing limestone cliffs of the Vercors Regional Natural Park rise on your left, creating a striking contrast with the gentle valley. Approaching your destination, you'll cross a landscape of small country roads dominated by the peaks of the Chartreuse mountains to the north. Your day ends in Saint-Marcellin, a town renowned for its PGI cheese. Take the time to stroll through its charming provincial center or extend your exploration to the hanging houses of Pont-en-Royans. Nearby, the village of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye also makes for an excellent cultural stop to conclude this flavorful stage.

You begin your final 45km leg towards Valence, marking the end of your journey on La Belle Via. The route descends gradually along the Isère River, crossing the sun-drenched landscapes of the Drôme des Collines region. Between orchards and cultivated fields, the mountains gradually give way to a wider valley with a distinctly Mediterranean feel. As you approach the city, you reach the landscaped banks of the Rhône, whose powerful current accompanies your final pedal strokes. Once you arrive in Valence, take the time to explore the historic center to admire the Maison des Têtes, a Renaissance gem, as well as the Romanesque Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral. To end your trip in style, a stroll through Jouvet Park is a must. This terraced garden offers a splendid panorama of the river and the Ardèche hills, an ideal conclusion to this Alpine crossing.