Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
Press Pack
                                       2021

Seine Maritime ©David Darrault –
         The Seine Valley by bike
Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
Summary :
                                  Cycle tourism in France                                           P.3

                                  La Seine à Vélo® - The Seine Valley by bike                       P.4-7
                                                                                                              Cycle Tourism
                                  «Embark on a journey of wonder between Paris and the              P.8-11
                                  Channel coast»
                                                                                                              Holidays on two wheels: France’s Top Touring
                                                                                                              Experience
                                       -   Big nature
                                                                                                              Within a few years, cycle tourism has grown so rapidly
                                       -   A rich bounty of history and heritage
                                                                                                              it has become the number one way of touring France. A
                                       -   Impressionism along the Seine
                                                                                                              real trend embraced by 59% of French travelers choosing
                                       -   An emblematic river                                                bike tours as a way to explore the country differently and
                                       -   Regional food and local produce                                    spend time in nature* at their own pace. This new travel
                                                                                                              experience seems to be reflective of the general attitude
                                                                                                              towards slow tourism, a willingness to explore small
                                  Sections of the itinerary to explore                              P.12-25   towns and areas much more intimately, connecting with
                                                                                                              people and getting more embedded in the local culture
                                       - Discovering the banks of the Seine river, from Paris to    P.12-13   as well as a mounting concern over our environmental
                                                                                                              footprint. On top of this, the Covid-19 pandemic has
                                       Conflans-Ste-Honorine
                                                                                                              undeniably impacted the increasing number of travelers
                                       - Delving deep into history, from Conflans-Ste-Honorine      P.14-15
                                                                                                              taking part in bike touring adventures over the summer
                                       to La Roche-Guyon
                                                                                                              season.    To   accommodate       tourists       seeking   those
                                       - Capturing the colors of Impressionism from La Roche-       P.16-17   alternative methods of travel, various cycle routes are
                                       Guyon to Les Andelys                                                   being developed throughout France, such as La Seine à
                                       - Interconnecting between natural and cultural assets,       P.18-19   Vélo, launched on October 15th, 2020. A unique cycle trail
                                       from Les Andelys to Rouen                                              through 130 towns and villages following the Seine river in
                                       - Exploring history and traditions, from Rouen to Jumièges   P.20-21   a new, exciting and environmentally friendly way.
                                       - Reaching Le Havre, from Jumièges to Le Havre               P.22-23
                                                                                                              * Source : « Observatoire du tourisme à vélo » by the French
                                       - Indulging in a Deauville wellness break, from Jumièges     P.24-25
                                                                                                              Cycling Federation.
                                       to Deauville

                                  Useful Information                                                P.27

                                                                                                                                                           ➔                 Rouen metropolis ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo
Warm welcome in a guest house
©David Darrault La Seine à Vélo                  2                                                                                         3
Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
LA SEINE À VÉLO®                                                                                                                                                                                                      LA SEINE À VÉLO®

Le Havre                                                                                                                                                       Key Figures
Deauville
                                                                                                                                      270 miles                                                2 regions and 8
                                                                                                                                      (430km) to explore                                       departments covered

                                                                                                                   Paris                                                    1 emblematic river
Freewheeling along the                                                                                                                                                      as a common thread

Seine river                                                                         Our partners
As the departments of Normandy and Ile-de-France
considered a joint way to enhance tourism in the
Seine Valley, a specific focus on the river became
                                                             The Seine à Vélo project has the backing and support of 15 key
                                                           strategic territories in partnership with the State to promote the    + 130                       2 Regional Nature Parks:
                                                            Seine Valley destination and contribute to the visitor economy,      towns to                    the Vexin Regional Nature Park and Norman Seine River
obvious. The symbolic Seine à Vélo cycling itinerary
was developed in 2015 to bring sites of great emotional     while focusing on a tourism product that takes into account the      cross                       Meanders Regional Nature Park
power together behind a shared vision. The trail links
                                                           needs of tourists, local residents, businesses and the environment.
the city of Paris to the Channel coast, covering

                                                                                                                                                                            2 estuary branches :
over 270 miles (430km) through bustling market
towns, picturesque villages, unspoilt countryside,
breathtaking scenery, exceptional attractions and
iconic places, crossing 8 departments such as Paris,                                                                                                                         Paris-Le Havre and Paris-Deauville
Seine-Saint-Denis,   Hauts-de-Seine,    Yvelines,   Val-
d’Oise, Eure, Seine-Maritime and Calvados.

                                                                                                                                             Le Havre :                                       Deauville :
                                                                                                                                             the city reconstructed by Auguste Perret,        an internationally famous

                                                                                                                                             listed as a UNESCO World Heritage                seaside resort

                                                                                                                                                                            5     cities awarded with the label « City of Art and History»

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
LA SEINE À VÉLO®

M ap

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
“EMBARK ON A JOURNEY OF WONDER BETWEEN PARIS AND THE CHANNEL COAST”

                                                                                                                                           Jumièges Abbey ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo               Villa Savoy in Poissy ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                  A rich bounty of history and
                                                                                               Big Nature
                                                                                                                                                  heritage
                                                                                     Be prepared to enjoy endless natural beauty         The   Seine   à   Vélo     route   takes   in   some
                                                                                     on the Seine à Vélo itinerary as the journey        outstanding heritage sites that span France’s
                                                                                     takes you through the wonderful scenery of          history, from epic religious landmarks such as
                                                                                     the state forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye,          the cathedrals of Paris and Rouen, ancient
                                                                                     the Norman Seine River Meanders Regional            abbeys such as Jumièges and Saint Wandrille,
                                                                                     Nature Park and the vast Seine estuary that         the châteaux of La Roche Guyon, Bizy, Château-
                                                                                     leads to Le Havre harbour. The route crosses        Gaillard and the DDay Landing Beaches as the
                                                                                     some of the most treasured preserved areas          historical highlights of a fascinating past.
                                                                                     such as Port Îlon and the Guernes loop located      The cycle route also encompasses famous
                                                                                     in the French Vexin Regional Nature Park, or        UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the
                                                                                     the Grande Noé bird reserve hosting colonies        Cathedral Basilica of Saint-Denis and its
                                                                                     of protected bird species since 1987 at the         royal necropolis, the Villa Savoye in Poissy, a
                                                                                     confluence of the Seine, Eure and Andelle           contemporary architectural masterpiece by
                                                                                     rivers. A stop at Val-Saint-Martin, at Orival, at   Le Corbusier. The long-distance cycle route
                                                                                     Poses and at Les Andelys offer superb views         ends in two iconic cities: UNESCO listed Le
                                                                                     of the dramatic cliffs overlooking the banks        Havre, referred to as the reconstructed city
                                                                                     of the Seine and a real sense of getting away       and Deauville, a 19th century trendy seaside
                                                                                     from it all.                                        town famed for its glorious sandy beach and
                        Jumièges Abbey gatehouse ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                                       stylish, elegant villas.                                   Epinay-sur-Seine towpath ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
“EMBARK ON A JOURNEY OF WONDER BETWEEN PARIS AND THE CHANNEL COAST”

                                                                                                                                             Honfleur lighthouse ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                             La Capucine Giverny ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                                                Regional food and
                                                                                                 Impressionism along the Seine                          An emblematic river                                     local produce
                                                                                       Cycling the Seine à Vélo route is a hedonistic         Plenty of sights along the routes appeal to            From Paris to Honfleur, through Giverny and
                                                                                       invitation to experience the landscapes that           water sports enthusiasts, allowing numerous            Rouen, opportunities to savour fresh regional
                                                                                       gave rise to an art movement that revolutionised       stops at ponds, lakes, water activity centers or       flavours and local cuisine abound. In the Paris
                                                                                       the history of art across the world. The Seine         marinas. The quays of Rouen host magnificent           region, the bustling market of Saint-Denis
                                                                                       Valley   is   the   birthplace of Impressionism,       tall ships during The Armada, a key event in the       or the Hauts-de-Seine tourism craftsmen
                                                                                       where artists found the inspiration and the            international sailing calendar. The next edition       (pastry chefs, brewers, chocolate makers) take
                                                                                       perfect environment to embrace a radical new           of this major maritime and festive gathering           local produce to a whole new level. Normandy
                                                                                       approach to painting. Visit the unmissable town        will take place in 2023. The route is scattered        has its fair share of traditional dishes with a
                                                                                       of Giverny and the Monet Foundation, the house         with sites that capture the river’s industrial         story to tell. From hearty Norman pastry called
                                                                                       where Claude Monet lived for 43 years, as well         history. In the riverside town of Conflans-            “Bourdelot” to delicious cider, from a visit of
                                                                                       as the Musée des Impressionnismes. In Chatou,          Sainte-Honorine, the fabulous Museum of                the orchards of Giverny to the Fruit trail or
                                                                                       explore the Impressionists island where Renoir         Inland navigation and waterways (musée de la           Calvados tastings, get prepared to eat your
                                                                                       set his easel to paint the famous «Déjeuner            batellerie et des voies navigables) provides a         way around Normandy’s traditional food. Treat
                                                                                       des canotiers».      Step into the vivid, colourful    deep insight into the role played by the Seine         your      tastebuds   to   signature   restaurants
                                                                                       scenes of impressionist paintings at the MuMa          river and the Saint-Denis Canal in industrial          and local inns with archetypal dishes shaped
                                                                                       Museum in Le Havre, home to an exceptional             times. In Le Havre and Deauville, where the            around bounty of the sea and riches of fertile
                                                                                       collection of masterpieces.                            trail ends, you can revel in the delight of iconic     plains.
                   Giverny Museum of Impressionism ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                                          harbours, nestled in timeless landscapes.

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
Blue promenade ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                          Saint-Nicolas Church La Frette-sur-Seine ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                  Île-de-France’s                            The Imperial Cities of Rueil-Malmaison and                                            Savours
                                                                                                                                                                                  thriving arts scene                        Saint-Germain-en-Laye                                                                 & Flavours
                                                                                                                                                                       From       downtown      Paris,     the    Lift history off the pages and              visitors   completely        invigorated.   Follow your tastebuds and enjoy
                                                                                                                                                                       greenway runs along the iconic             explore historic France! Less than          There are miles of forest tracks,           the   delectable       delights    this
                                                                                                 Bateaux Lavoirs Canal Saint-Denis ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo   Saint-Martin canal to join the             ten kilometres from the capital,            waymarked footpaths and cycle               section of the trail has to offer.

Sections of the itinerary to explore
                                                                                                                                                                       Saint-Denis canal featuring the            there’s evidence of the incredible          tracks to discover these green              For an on-route stop, tuck into a
                                                                                                                                                                       colourful Street Art Avenue, a             Napoleonic heritage at every turn           lungs just outside Paris, listed as         delicious traditional experience
                                                                                                                                                                       true   open-air    art   gallery.   The    in the town of Rueil Malmaison,             a protected natural area for its            at the restaurant Les Rives de
                                                                                                                                                                       route leads to the historic centre         from the Château de Malmaison,              wildlife and biodiversity.                  la Courtille on the impressionist

Discovering the banks of the Seine river
                                                                                                                                                                       of Saint-Denis where the famous            the private residence of Napoleon                                                       island of Chatou, housed in the
                                                                                                                                                                       royal necropolis and the gothic            Bonaparte and Empress Josephine                                                         former boating club depicted in
                                                                                                                                                                       Basilica that inspired Notre-Dame          to   the   church of Saint-Pierre-                                                      delightful,   light-infused       water
From Paris to Conflans-Ste-Honorine                                                                                                                                    de Paris await. Further along, La          Saint-Paul, his final resting place.                    Don’t miss                      scenes. With its fine selection of
                                                                                                                                                                       Frette-sur-Seine      overlooks      “la   Wander around the historic district                                                     6 natural beers, the craft brewery
From    Paris     to       Île-de-France,   industrial past. The route then                                                                                                                                                                                       The      former      towpath
                                                                                                                                                                       Promenade      des    peintres”     (the   of Saint-Germain-en-Laye for a                                                          “La P’tite sœur” in Sartrouville
surprises are endless on La Seine           runs along the “blue promenade”,                                                                                           Painters’ Walk). Here, you’ll find epic    journey back in time. Treasured by              going by the name of the                provides a refreshing stop for
à Vélo itinerary! The ride begins at        a   former   towpath    along   the                                                                                        spots that still bear the stamp of         kings, the Château-Vieux is now                 “Promenade Bleue” crosses               beer lovers. You can learn about

                                                                                                              Getting there
the spectacular Notre-Dame de               banks of the Seine. Combining a                                                                                            the greatest Impressionist artists         home to the National Archaeology                                                        the beer making process from
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  departmental parks along
Paris cathedral. The path takes you         great mix of nature and heritage,                                                                                          such as Marquet, Daubigny or               Museum. A visit of the historic                                                         the   brewers    themselves,       two
into the vibrant and cosmopolitan           this first section from Paris to                                                                                                                                                                                      the    Seine,   between      the
                                                                                       Departure : Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral                                       Pissaro.                                   family home of Claude Debussy                                                           childhood friends who have taken
streets of Paris to discover its            Conflans-Sainte-Honorine is an                                                                                                                                        gives visitors a fascinating insight            Colombes bridge and Rueil               up the challenge of making the
                                                                                       Access : RER C and Transilien St-Michel Notre-Dame
monuments,      then        follows   the   invitation to discover a variety of                                                                                                                                   into the world of the famous French                                                     leap from a homebrewing hobby
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Malmaison.
banks of the Saint-Denis canal              historical sites, time periods and         Distance : ~ 40,4 miles (65 km)                                                                                            composer. By the chateau, a walk                                                        into retail brewing.
which    offers        a     fascinating    architectural styles.                                                                                                                                                 through the state forest leaves
glimpse of the capital’s glorious

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
SECTIONS OF THE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE

                                                                                                                                                                              Port Ilon Green Lane ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                      Edge of the Seine at Conflans-Saint-Honorine ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                     Conflans-Sainte-                             Poissy, a journey                             Get back
                                                                                                                                                                                     Honorine boating town                        through time                                  to nature
                                                                                                                                                                          No      trip     to     Conflans-Sainte-      From Poissy to Mantes-la-Jolie,              In   the    town     of   Andrésy,    the
                                                                                                                                                                          Honorine is complete without a                the cycling route transports you             island of Ile Nancy offers pristine
                                                                                                                                                                          visit of the “Musée de la Batellerie”,        through    time.   Nothing   defines         environments          and       peaceful                   Don’t miss
                                                                                                                                                                          a    museum           dedicated   to   the    a place quite as distinctly as its           scenery perfect for connecting
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Immerse yourself in the
                                                                                                                                                                          history of inland navigation. The             architecture and you’ll encounter            with the natural world. The only
                                                                                                                                                                          town, at the junction of the Seine            a few masterpieces on the way.               option to reach the island is to                 magical     world     of   the

                                                                                                 Collegiate Church of Mantes-La-Jolie ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo   and the Oise rivers, has long served          The internationally famous Villa             board the ferry boat operating                   painter     Claude      Monet

Delving deep into history
                                                                                                                                                                          as a hub for crews on vessels and             Savoye designed by Le Corbusier              from April to November. Nestled
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      while visiting the house he
                                                                                                                                                                          cargos.        The    museum      provides    from 1928 to 1931 showcases the              at the heart of one of the most
                                                                                                                                                                          unparalleled knowledge about the              fundamental principles of modern             beautiful curves of the Seine, the               lived in during his stay in

From Conflans-Ste-Honorine to La Roche-Guyon                                                                                                                              role waterways played in France’s             architecture.      After   years   of        island is home to a leisure park                 Vétheuil (1878-1881), now a
                                                                                                                                                                          burgeoning               industrialisation.   neglect, the outstanding building            you can explore by foot before
The Seine à Vélo journeys along the     collegiate church Notre-Dame, from                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            guesthouse.
                                                                                                                                                                          Experience life onboard by visiting           was restored by the French state             jumping back on your saddle. Enjoy
river, heading up to awe-inspiring La   the church of Vétheuil painted by
                                                                                                                 Getting there
                                                                                                                                                                          two canal boats moored in the                 and became a listed building in              the tranquility of Port Ilon with
Roche-Guyon, the only village in the    Claude Monet to the chateau of La                                                                                                 port Saint-Nicolas.                           1964. In Mantes-la-Jolie, don’t miss         its 100 acres pond surrounded
Île-de-France region awarded with       Roche-Guyon. The sense of history                                                                                                                                               out on the captivating visit of              by trees. This protected wildlife
                                        you get exploring these heritage                 Departure : Conflans-Sainte-Honorine city centre
the prestigious title of “prettiest                                                                                                                                                                                     the impressive Collegiate Church             sanctuary      listed     Natura     2000
villages in France.” Mile after mile,   places is evident, but it’s also alive in        Access - Transilien J : Conflans-Sainte-Honorine stop, direction                                                               of Notre-Dame on the banks of                offers     sublime    natural      beauty
the route is steeped in rich history.   nature walks, such as in the Parc du                                                                                                                                            the Seine, a flagship of gothic              and a wonderful opportunity to
                                                                                         Gisors or Vernon.
The   Seine    navigates    through     Peuple de l’Herbe in Carrières-sous-                                                                                                                                            architecture.                                observe a range of bird species
centuries in the Vexin, from the        Poissy flourishing with greenery                 Distance : ~ 25 miles (40 km)
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     nesting and migrating. Get your
royal town of Poissy to Mantes-la-      and the wildlife haven of the Bout                                                                                                                                                                                           binoculars ready!
Jolie and its remarkable historic       du Monde at Epône.

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
SECTIONS OF THE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE

                                                                                                                                                                     Les Andelys ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                                          “La Grotte à Bières” La Roche-Guyon ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                                                           The Château de la
                                                                                                                                                                               Giverny, an unmissable                      Roche-Guyon and                              La Grotte à Bières, an
                                                                                                                                                                               Impressionist village                       its garden                                   original experience !
                                                                                                                                                                    Discover     the   authentic       charm      The Château de la Roche Guyon is              Perched on the clifftop of La
                                                                                                                                                                    of     quintessential      Giverny,    the    an incredible piece of history that           Roche-Guyon, La Grotte à Bière
                                                                                                                                                                    village of Normandy made famous               survived centuries from the Middle            (the Beer Cave) guarantees to                            Don’t miss
                                                                                                                                                                    around      the    world     by    Claude     Ages to the Second World War.                 elevate your experience of beer                A visit to La Capucine, in
                                                                                                                                                                    Monet, who lived there from 1883              Overlooking the peaceful mean-                tasting. You have come to the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               Giverny is an experience of
                                                                                                Giverny Museum of Impressionism ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo   to 1926. A true pilgrimage place              ders of the river and the undulating          right place if you’re looking for
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               its own. Full-of-charm café,
Capture the colours of Impressionism
                                                                                                                                                                    for art lovers as he created some             countryside of the French Vexin               something a little out of the
                                                                                                                                                                    of his most iconic paintings here,            Regional Nature Park, the site fea-           ordinary,    just   like   the   owner         restaurant, concept-store,
                                                                                                                                                                    inspired by his unique garden                 tures a medieval keep perched on a            Jean-Michel      Kubler,     who   has

From la Roche-Guyon to Les Andelys
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               tea-room and tree nursery,
                                                                                                                                                                    bursting with colours. Restored               cliff, an 18th century chateau with           combined his lifelong passion for
                                                                                                                                                                    to its original state, the garden             elegant state rooms, troglodyte               beer with the quirkiest tasting                it has many experiential
The rolling hills and picturesque          the   region   of   Normandy   and                                                                                       is an absolute highlight and a                homes, underground passages and               spot:   a troglodyte house. An
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               assets for travelers looking
scenery    of   the    Seine      Valley   discover all the facets of this art
                                                                                                              Getting there
                                                                                                                                                                    delightful place to enjoy a bucolic           an outstanding fruit and vege-                impressive craft beer menu of
inspired        the            greatest    movement in the exact settings                                                                                           stroll. The outstanding collection            table garden awarded the “Jardin              160 beer varieties and a friendly              for conviviality. Grab a cup,
Impressionist artists, who set             of the many paintings depicting                                                                                          of paintings and the garden of                Remarquable” label. Organic fruits            atmosphere       are   the    makings          take a seat, and plan to
                                           the     Seine,      demonstrating          Departure : Haute-Isle church / La Roche-Guyon town centre
up their easels to capture the                                                                                                                                      the Museum of Impressionism                   and vegetables can be purchased               of this great thirst-quenching
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                               linger!
changing effects of light on the           how central this river was to              Access : Bonnières SNCF railway station (TER and Transilien J)                completes this visit perfectly.               directly from the store on site. Visit        tasting experience. An in-depth
landscapes. Take time to explore           Impressionist painters.                                                                                                  This    little   green    haven     where     the nature area to find out more              dive into the world of craft beer!
                                                                                      Distance : ~ 18.5 miles (30 km)
the surroundings of La Roche-                                                                                                                                       flowers      bloom,      art      galleries   about the Réserve Naturelle Natio-
Guyon, Giverny, Vernon or Les                                                                                                                                       and     workshops        abound     oozes     nale des Coteaux de la Seine, the
Andelys.   Embark     on   a     voyage                                                                                                                             tranquility. A picture-perfect stop           national reserve of the limestone
of   the   senses     as   you    enter                                                                                                                             on your two-wheeled adventure!                hillsides of the Seine Valley.

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Press Pack 2021 - La Seine à Vélo
SECTIONS OF THE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE

                                                                                                                                                                 Bonport Abbey - ©altivolus.fr                                                                                                     Léry-Poses ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                         Les Andelys, a town                         In the footsteps of
                                                                                                                                                                         steeped in history                          Richard the Lionheart                           Family Fun
                                                                                                                                                                With a history spanning over 800           A   few   kilometers      from    Rouen,        Everyone likes a splash, and the
                                                                                                                                                                years, the majestic, imposing ruins        at the confluence of the Eure                   lakes,    beaches        and     activities
                                                                                               Château Gaillard Les Andelys ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo
                                                                                                                                                                of the medieval Château-Gaillard           and    the    Seine    rivers,   another        at    Léry-Poses Leisure Park in                           Don’t miss
Interconnecting between natural and cultural                                                                                                                    overlook   the     valley,   oozing   an   medieval site linked to Richard                 Normandy are sure to delight. In a                 Built in 1892, now a listed

assets
                                                                                                                                                                inimitable mythical charm. Once            the    Lionheart       brings     legend        curve of the Seine, the site boasts
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              building, the circus theater
                                                                                                                                                                the home of Richard the Lionheart,         to life: the Cistercian Abbey of                attractions and activities that
                                                                                                                                                                it served as an important military         Bonport. Legend goes that the                   thrill and entertain adults and                    of Elbeuf is one of the last

From Les Andelys to Rouen                                                                                                                                       stronghold, now reduced to the             King   of     England     took    refuge        kids alike : canoeing, water-skiing
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              permanent       circuses    in
                                                                                                                                                                shell of its former glory. A steep         here after falling in the water                 or pedal boating. Connect with
From the church Saint-Sauveur          with inns, activity centres and                                                                                          stroll to the castle at the top of         and almost drowning during a                    nature, share new experiences                      France and the only one
in Les Andelys, the route heads        majestic cliffs dotted along the                                                                                         its hill is rewarded by breathtaking       hunt. He is said to have vowed to               and      stay        overnight    at    the        to feature an Italian style
towards    Rouen    following   the    way.                                                                                                                     panoramic views over the Seine             build an abbey where he reached                 park’s    accommodation:          vintage
Seine’s meandering banks. Take a                                                                       Getting there                                            Valley and its chalk cliffs. Below         land safely, hence the place was                caravans,       chalets,    self-catering
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              theater

quick pit stop in the former boating     “This stretch of                                                                                                       the   castle,      picturesque     half-   named        Bonport     (meaning     to        cottages        or    camping     on    the
village of Poses to discover the
                                          the trail offers                     Departure : Saint-Sauveur church / Les Andelys town centre                       timbered    houses       are     aligned   arrive safe and sound in French.)               banks of the Seine. On top of that,
intriguing Seinoscope, a unique                                                Access : SNCF train station of Saint-Pierre-du-Vauvray (TER), SNCF               along the towpath of the former            An enchanting visit of the abbey                immerse yourself in the tropical
way of observing fish swimming         incredible diversity                                                                                                     fishing village.                           provides a fascinating insight into             forest    of     Biotropica,     a     giant
                                                                               train station of Val-de-Reuil and Rouen (TER)
upstream on the river whatever             and beautiful                                                                                                                                                   the life of this mythical character             greenhouse with lush vegetation
the season. Right up to Rouen, this                                            Distance : ~ 46.5 miles (75 km)
                                         scenery along a
                                                                                                                                                                                                           who shaped the course of English                and an outdoor animal park home
quiet and picturesque section of                                                                                                                                                                           and French history.                             to more than 100 species from
the route runs along a towpath           quiet towpath”                                                                                                                                                                                                    around the world.

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SECTIONS OF THE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE

                                                                                                                                                                         Gros-Horloge at Rouen ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                                               Bac La Bouille-Sahurs ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                Rouen, travel back                               Legacy of an
                                                                                                                                                                                in time                                          illustrious past                                 Timeless villages : Sahurs and La Bouille
                                                                                                                                                                       Famed for its traditional half-              Bringing together heritage and                     Nearby Rouen, Sahurs is loved            still very much alive in La Bouille
                                                                                                                                                                       timbered       buildings,     Rouen     is   literature, this section takes a                   for its picturesque rural village        and it’s easy to understand why
                                                                                                                                                                       an absolute gem teeming with                 closer look at the listed Pavillon                 scenery,    natural   meadows    and     generations of artists are drawn to
                                                                                                                                                                       charm and history, labeled «City             Flaubert,       the   only    remain     of        the Forêt Domaniale de Roumare           its idyllic setting.
                                                                                                                                                                       of Art and History» and known as             the estate in which the French                     forest. Before boarding the ferry
                                                                                                                                                                       the «City of a hundred steeples».            novelist Gustave Flaubert lived for                across the Seine to reach La
                                                                                                                View of La Bouille ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo
                                                                                                                                                                       Each chapter of Rouen’s history              35 years, wrote his brilliant novels               Bouille, (free of charge) there is a

History & Traditions                                                                                                                                                   is uncovered through its cobbled
                                                                                                                                                                       pedestrian streets, quirky lanes
                                                                                                                                                                                                                    and hosted his illustrious friends
                                                                                                                                                                                                                    such    as      writers      Maupassant,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       wonderful opportunity to wander
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                       through the magnificent gardens
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             Don’t miss
From Rouen to Jumièges                                                                                                                                                 and heritage : its emblematic                George Sand or Théophile Gautier.                  of the Château de Soquence. This             Two      itinerary      options
                                                                                                                                                                       clock,   the    Gros    Horloge,       the   In   2021,      Normandy      is   set   to        romantic and bucolic walk delivers           are   available:     follow   the
Between   Rouen    and     Jumièges,    buildings   await   in   Sahurs,    La                                                                                         impressive        Notre-Dame           de    celebrate the bicentenary of his                   breathtaking views of the Seine.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    greenway which runs along
history   and   cultural    heritage    Bouille, Duclair and Jumièges. The                                                                                             Rouen Cathedral and medieval                 birth. As you reach Jumièges, the                  On the other side of the river, you
mingle in a joyful package of           towpath of Sahurs is a historical                                    Getting there                                             houses. The city has fascinated              bewitching decor of the famous                     can soak up in history while you             the   disused      railway    line
astonishing     and      captivating    and   cultural   journey   into    the                                                                                         painters such as Pissarro who                Abbey      of    Jumièges      destroyed           stop in the Impressionist village            between Duclair and Le Trait
                                                                                      Departure : Rouen city centre
discoveries. After soaking up the       Seine’s past. Its surroundings still                                                                                           immortalised      Rue       Damiette    in   in the 19th century dominates                      of La Bouille, sometimes called
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    or follow the curve of the
vibrant atmosphere and exploring        bear the mark of Impressionism                Access : by TGV or TER station in Rouen and by BUS to Duclair.                   1884, or Claude Monet obsessed               the skyline. Victor Hugo named                     “Little Honfleur”. Stroll through the
Rouen’s   highlights,   the   visitor   that flourished along the river.                                                                                               by the front of the cathedral.               the monastic site and its white                    medieval lanes and admire the half-          river. The choice is yours!
                                                                                      Distance : ~ 34 miles (55 km)
is drawn back to the Seine and                                                                                                                                         The antique dealers’ district is a           towers “the most beautiful ruin in                 timbered fishermen’s houses from
heads for the Norman Seine River                                                                                                                                       pleasure to explore.                         France”.                                           the 15th century. With streets lined
Meanders Regional Nature Park.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         with workshops and art galleries,
A wealth of castles and religious                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      the   impressionist   movement      is

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SECTIONS OF THE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE

                                                                                                                                                                         Victor Hugo Villequier Museum ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                                              Harfleur ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                    Cultural escape to                         Harfleur, a                                  Soak in Le Havre’s
                                                                                                                                                                                    Rives-en-Seine                             medieval gem                                 cultural scene
                                                                                                                                                                     In      Caudebec-en-Caux,                 delve   A few pedal strokes lead you to          Last but not least: Le Havre
                                                                                                                                                                     deeper         in     local    culture      as    the medieval town of Harfleur and        is   your    final   destination.   Its
                                                                                                                                                                     the     MuséoSeine            traces      back    transport you to ancient times           thriving cultural scene makes it                      Don’t miss
                                                                                                                                                                     the history of the river,of its                   where huge defensive buildings           an unmissable stop on the Seine               Pedal your way through
                                                                                                                     Havre Beach ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo   people         and     landscapes         from    such as the Porte de Rouen were          à Vélo itinerary. Sure to delight
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Normandy’s orchards and
                                                                                                                                                                     Antiquity to present days on an                   used to protect the people and           young and old alike, its buzzing

Reaching Le Havre                                                                                                                                                    interactive tour that combines
                                                                                                                                                                     new technologies and historical
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       the town’s wealth. Packed with
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       listed buildings such as the Town
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                city centre built in concrete and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                designed by Auguste Perret has
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              fruit trees. Sample local

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              apples, pears and cherries
From Jumièges to Le Havre                                                                                                                                            replicas. The Timescope is the
                                                                                                                                                                     museum’s flagship attraction and
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Hall, the church of Saint-Martin
                                                                                                                                                                                                                       and hidden gems around every
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                resulted in becoming a UNESCO
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                World Heritage Site in 2005. With             purchased      directly   from

After Rouen and Jumièges, the              this section of the Seine à Vélo                                                                                          tells the story of the river through              corner, you can experience an            architectural masterpieces and                producers to tickle your
Seine river meets the Norman               itinerary comes to an end. Echoing                                                                                        a    360°       immersive          experience.    eclectic mix of culture, history         art works scattered around the
Seine     River   Meanders    Regional     the grandeur of Paris, Le Havre                                  Getting there                                            A     little    further,      in    Villequier,   and nature outings in Harfleur.          public space, along a further 54
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              taste buds.

Nature Park, a special place to            dazzles visitors with its cultural                                                                                        the Victor Hugo Museum, also                                                               municipalities making up the Le
                                           landmarks, monuments, museums             Departure : Abbey of Jumièges / town centre of Jumièges                                                                                                                    Havre Seine Metropolitain area
come and see some the region’s                                                                                                                                       known as the Vacquerie House,
finest    wildlife   and   biodiversity.   and unique post World War II              Access : BUS in Jumièges and TER in le Havre                                    bears      witness       to    the       strong                                            also boasting heritage buildings
After an inspiring immersion in            architecture.                                                                                                             connections between the Hugo                                                               and exceptional landscapes, it is
                                                                                     Distance : ~ 53 miles (85 km)
nature,    the    route    follows   the                                                                                                                             and Vacquerie families. Several                                                            no wonder the great city of Le
curves of the Seine through the                                                                                                                                      pieces of the famous writer are                                                            Havre won the prestigious title
park’s awe-inspiring landscapes,                                                                                                                                     displayed        in   the     billiard    room                                             of “County of Art and History” in
leading to the city Le Havre, where                                                                                                                                  dedicated to his life and work.                                                            2019.

                                                                                22                                                                                                                                                                         23
SECTIONS OF THE ITINERARY TO EXPLORE

                                                                                                                                                                          Deauville Beach ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo                                                      lodging des Cigognes Marais Vernier ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                                                                                                                                                                   A little taste of                              Nature and heritage                           Final stages :
                                                                                                                                                                                   happiness                                      unfold at every step                          Honfleur & Deauville
                                                                                                                                                                         On the way to Deauville, gourmets            Providing a haven of peace and                  As the Seine à Vélo trail draws to an
                                                                                                                                                                         will be spoilt for choice with a             tranquility,    the Marais Vernier              end, you’ll be surprised by how much
                                                                                                                                                                         variety   of    local   delicacies     to    is nestled in the curves of the                 remains to be seen! Honfleur is one                    Don’t miss
                                                                                                                                                                         sample. In the Marais-Vernier, you’ll        Norman Seine River Meanders                     of the most popular places to visit in        In    Pont-l’Evêque,       Cal-
                                                                                                            Vieux Bassin in Honfleur ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo   find high quality local cuisine on           Regional Nature Park. To explore                France. While its charming harbour
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    vados Experience is an
                                                                                                                                                                         offer at the Auberge de l’Etampage           this area of outstanding natural                “Vieux Bassin” takes us back to great

Indulging in a Deauville wellness break                                                                                                                                  in an original and convivial setting.
                                                                                                                                                                         Enjoy the owners warm welcome
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      beauty,      follow     the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      chaumières (Thatched Cottage
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     Route des        maritime adventures and strategic
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      battles, its town centre and the
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    immersive      museum      de-

                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    voted to calvados apple
From Jumièges to Deauville                                                                                                                                               and enthusiasm to share their
                                                                                                                                                                         knowledge of the Marais-Vernier
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Trail)    winding      between
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      landscapes and historic houses
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        scenic        district of l’Enclos connects us to
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      the golden age of the city of painters,
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    brandy and the secrets

The seaside resort of Deauville is     really   relax!   Before   you   reach                                                                                            and tips to find local tasty treats.         along the Seine river. On the                   birthplace of Impressionism. Arriving         of its production. Enjoy a
the perfect place to escape the        Deauville, the opportunities for                                                                                                  The   long-established          Trouville    way, admire splendid examples                   in Deauville, be prepared to be awe-
hustle and bustle of everyday          exploring the stunning Norman                                          Getting there                                              Fish Market is a seafood lovers              of    half-timbered        houses   with        struck by the magnificent sandy
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    multi-sensory experience

life. If you’re feeling active, on     Seine River Meanders Regional                                                                                                     dream     -    fresh    fish,   shellfish,   thatched roofs which have stood                 beach along the Promenade des                 culminating in a calvados
                                       Nature     Park     and    Normandy’s         Departure : Abbey of Jumièges / town centre of Jumièges                                                                          the      test   of     time.   Appreciate       Planches, the famous boardwalk
foot or by bike, there are plenty                                                                                                                                        Normandy oysters, scallops and                                                                                                             tasting and uncover all
of activities to enjoy: golf, horse-   captivating heritage are endless.             Access : BUS in Jumièges and TER in Pont l’Evêquet and Deauville                    other flavours of the sea await.             the      traditional    know-how     and        built in the early 1920’s. Take a stroll
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                    the secrets of this tradi-
riding, horse-races, the casino and    There is just so much to discover                                                                                                 No experience of Normandy would              preserved architectural heritage.               through town and discover a wealth
                                                                                     Distance : ~ 71,5 miles (115 km)
entertainment of all kinds. If that    between     Paris   and    the   coast                                                                                            be complete without indulging in a                                                           of chic boutiques, the casino and a           tional apple spirit.
sounds too hectic then why not         by bike, by far the best way to                                                                                                   traditional Calvados tasting in one                                                          variety of elegant Belle Epoque Villas
indulge in the thalassotherapy         experience the wonder.                                                                                                            of the many distilleries… another                                                            such as the stylish Strassburger
centre or grab a deckchair and                                                                                                                                           must-try foodie experience!                                                                  villa open to the public for visits.

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Useful information :

   1              Taking Your Bike on
                  a Train
       As a general rule, all bikes can travel
                                                       2             “Accueil Vélo”, a
                                                                     label for cyclists
                                                           The national brand Accueil Vélo
                                                                                                   3   From
                                                                                                                   Where to sleep ?
                                                                                                                  comfortable        hotels      to
       on RER trains and TER (regional                     (Cyclists Welcome) was set up to            guest      houses,     camping         sites
       trains) for free without having                     meet the growing demand for                 to     holiday     parks,     you’ll    find
       to disassemble it, and without                      cycle tourism throughout France.            many accommodation services
       prior booking. However, you may                     The green logo in the shape of              commit to providing you with
       need to book a space on board                       a cyclist helps identify facilities         the best places to stay while
       for your full-sized bike if there                   and accommodation divided into              cycling.    These      accommodation
       is no space available on these                      6   categories     (accommodation,          providers have greatly adapted
       trains. Some high speed TGVs and                    tourist offices, bike hire companies,       to     a   demanding        clientele     by
       most Intercity trains with a seat                   bike maintenance, attractions and           offering      tailor-made        services
       reservation system also offer a                     leisure   activities,   restaurants)        including bike rentals, secured
       bike reservation option (10 euros                   and located within a 5 km radius            bike       shelters,     repair         kits,
       per bike), prior to travelling, either              distance of the signposted cycle            luggage          transfers,       laundry
       directly   at   the   station   or   via            route.                                      services, quality breakfasts to
       the oui.sncf website. Additional                                                                fuel some serious two-wheeled
       information about taking your bike                                                              adventurers and much more.
       on a train is provided on France
       Vélo Tourisme website.

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                                                                                                                                                       27   ➔   Vernon station ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo
➔          Haute Isle ©David Darrault – La Seine à Vélo

                                       PRESS CONTACT :                         COORDINATION OF THE
                                       Interface Tourism                       INTERNARY COMMITTEE :
                      @LASEINEAVELO    Morgane Vincent & Alison Ghezi          coordination@laseineavelo.fr
                                       laseineavelo@interfacetourism.com       +33(0)2.27.34.02.95
                                       + 33(0)1.53.25.51.07
www.laseineavelo.fr

                      @LASEINEAVELO
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