Night 1
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Ibis Centre Lac in Geneva
Located in the city center, this modern hotel is just minutes away from several of Geneva’s top attractions.
Discover the upper and lower Rhône Valley on this 13-day self-guided cycling tour
Challenge yourself to an epic cycling adventure that will have you completing the Via Rhôna cycle route, cycling from Geneva, Switzerland to Orange, France. This 13-day multi-country self-guided cycling tour will introduce you to the spellbinding beauty of the upper and lower Rhône Valley.
The famous Via Rhôna cycling route has had cyclists riding from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean since 1995. The 815km route contributes a section of the famous cross-euro EuroVelo cycling route. This tour will have you complete almost the entire marvellous route that links Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea via the mighty Rhône.
Beginning in magnetic Geneva, you'll cross over into France, first exploring and staying in towns and villages like Seyssel, Champagneux, and famous Lyon. Then, entering the gates to beautiful Provence, where you'll experience the unparalleled elegance and charm of authentic France in Orange.
Cycle accompanied by awe-inspiring views of the French Alps as you ride through Savoie and take in the Jura Mountains' foothills in Bugey. The tour will introduce you to several authentic small French villages each brimming with charm, and every stop along the route will provide you with the opportunity to soak up French culture and history.
Explore the region of Ardèche, where you'll be mesmerized by its cryptic caves and ancient archeological sites. Enjoy an evening of true indulgence in Lyon, where you can dine in a famous "petit Bouchon," delighting in the food and wine of France's gastronomic capital. Witness the Rhône's wild side as you pedal the vineyard of Côte-Rôtie, known for producing one of the world's most seductive and elegant wines.
You may call this the tour that keeps on giving, as each stop along the way will be filled with delightful experiences and epic adventures. Complete the Via Rhôna cycle route and render yourself a true champion as you cycle from Geneva to Orange!
Arrive in Geneva, a true global city, known for its progressive humanitarian tradition and often dubbed as the “capital of peace.” Geneva is full of magnetic energy and life and is the perfect place to begin an epic cycling journey. Located on the famous Lake Geneva, the city is not only known for its upstanding character but also its natural beauty!
Settle into your accommodations here head out to experience this remarkable city, making sure to take in the famous Lake Geneva with a stroll along its scenic banks.
Your journey to France can either be completed by bike or train, depending on how you'd like to experience this part of the route. If you plan to cross over from Switzerland to France on bike, you'll trace the Rhône, discovering the "Défilé de l'Écluse" on your way. The route continues through a series of gorgeous vineyards and opens to sensational views of the alp's majestic mountains and valleys.
Once in Seyssel, you'll enjoy the tranquillity of this quiet town and note a swift departure from the bustle of Geneva. Settle into your accommodations here and enjoy the wonderful views of the Rhône.
Back on bike this morning, you’ll enjoy a pleasant ride, tracing both banks of the Rhône and savouring superb views as you find yourself flanked by ridges and a plateau. Your arrival in Chanaz will likely time well for a stop for lunch! Enjoy some mouthwatering French cuisine at a local restaurant, or perhaps post up near the Savières Canal and enjoy a nice picnic.
Then, your route continues to Culoz and Belley, two beautiful French villages that won’t disappoint. Finally, you’ll ride to Champagneux, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations.
Today’s route will introduce you to some more spectacular small villages on your way to Villebois. Saint-Genix-Sur-Guiers is up first. Known for its famous brioche pralines, a short stop to fill up on local specialties comes highly recommended here! Then, ride to Glandieu and finally press on to Villebois, where you’ll rest your head this evening.
Today the Via Rhôna will introduce you to the spellbinding countryside of Bugey as your route takes you on a beautiful stretch of the track above the Rhône. Ride through Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey, Sault-Brénaz, and La Balme-les-Grottes, each with its unique ambience and charm.
Arrive in the medieval town of Pérouges, known as one of France’s most beautiful towns!
Pedalling towards Lyon, you’ll enjoy cycling the parks and lakes of greater Lyon as you make your way towards the city center.
Lyon, known as France’s gastronomic capital, is sure to be a highlight of the tour! Enjoy your time here, eating and exploring your way through this most elegant town.
Departing Lyon, you’ll either cycle or train to Vienne. The route on bike takes you first through Grigny and Givors, and then on to St-Romain-en-Gal.
After experiencing the nature of the Rhône over several days, today you’ll be invited to learn more about the famous river’s history, with optional visits to museums in both St-Romain-en-Gal and Vienne. They provide an in-depth look at the Rhône, all the way from classical to contemporary times.
Today’s route has much in store, especially for lovers of history, nature, and gastronomy! Departing Vienne, you’ll ride towards the L’île au Beurre Nature Reserve, where the Rhône runs wild and free. Steeply terraced vineyards will flank your ride as you make your way into the prestigious Côte-Rôtie Wine area, where one of the world’s most elegant wines is produced. It goes without saying that you may want to hop off your bike for a tasting (or two!) during today’s magical route.
Continue to Serrières, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations.
Your route today will be flanked by breathtaking scenery as you pedal among steep vineyards and vibrant orchards, entering the wild and rugged Ardèche region. The river's importance in this region is unparalleled as it supports orchards, extensive crops, and top-class vines, all reliant on the river's life-giving flow.
Enjoy the remarkable scenery of this region bursting with life as you pedal to Valence, with an optional stop in Tournon-sur-Rhone, a town with fascinating Gallo-Roman roots.
Hop on your bike this morning for a pleasant ride along the Rhône's western bank, enjoy a brief stop at Valence's southern river port of L'Epervière on your way out of town.
Today you'll explore the historical region of Ardèche, known for its fascinating caves, archeological sites, charming villages, and grand châteaux.
The route will have you pedalling the Himalayan-style footbridge at Rochemaure, taking you over the Rhône where you'll be met by the gates to Provence. Arrive in Montélimar, where humans have roamed for over 50,000 years. Enjoy a pleasant stroll in the old town center this evening and soak up the remarkable charm of this ancient town.
Say farewell to beautiful Montélimar this morning and set out through several small villages before hopping off your bike to explore Viviers and its enchanting medieval spirit.
Back on the bike, you’ll continue to Bourg-Saint-Andéol, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations. Bourg-Saint-Andéol is known for its extremely rare sculpture of a Mithraic deity, which you’ll discover during your walk around town.
A bittersweet day has arrived, as today marks your final day of cycling and also your grand arrival in beautiful Orange!
The final route begins with impressive views of Provence, where you’ll soak in the scenery and aromas of this famous region of France. Make your way through the lovely village of Pont-Saint-Esprit, then continue to your final destination of Orange.
Orange is a town steeped in awe-inspiring history and is home to several Roman buildings and monuments, like the famous City Wall, Arc de Triumph, and the Roman Amphitheatre. Enjoy your final evening of the tour in this charming town and enjoy a mouth-watering farewell dinner to celebrate the passing of this epic cycling journey on the Via Rhôna.
Your cycling tour comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Check out of your accommodations and head to the airport to depart.
This self-guided cycling tour of the Via Rhôna is always run as a private tour for your group and the price per person depends on the number of people staying in one room, as well as the type of the accommodation.
Prices below are per person.
Standard Accommodation
Deluxe Accommodation
This tour is based in hotels. Hotels are 2-star and 3-star in the standard package or 3+ star in the deluxe package. All accommodations will offer either basic or modern conveniences that can make your stay more pleasant.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller or you prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed prices.
Located in the city center, this modern hotel is just minutes away from several of Geneva’s top attractions.
Guests will enjoy the lovely terrace and great bar at this simple but charming hotel.
This is a cozy B&B that offers guests a “home away from home” feel, well-located in Champagneux.
This hotel is set in a charming environment that offers guest fun amenities like a bar and lounge and on-site tennis courts.
A small family-friendly hotel that welcomes guests with open arms and has an outdoor pool and excellent restaurant.
Located in the trendy Gerland district, this recently renovated hotel offers guests an array of amenities, with several highlights of Lyon right on the hotel’s doorstep.
An old coaching inn dating back to 1750 has been converted to a cozy hotel in the center of Vienne here. Guests will enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere as well as a delicious breakfast buffet here.
Guests will enjoy their stay at Hotel Schaeffer which is located among the gorgeous vineyards of the Rhône Valley.
Hotel Alpes Cevennes is a great hotel that prides itself on providing a “home away from home” atmosphere.
Le Printemps is a lovely hotel offering guests an ideal mix of comfort and convenience. The hotel also boasts a pool, lounge and restaurant.
Enjoy this small romantic hotel with a refreshing pool, billiards room, and a cozy bar and lounge.
Enjoy a stay on the edge of Provence at this historical hotel located in the heart of the old Roman City.
Located in the city center, this modern hotel is just minutes away from several of Geneva’s top attractions.
Guests will enjoy their stay at this stylish hotel with plenty to keep them entertained, from a billiards room to karaoke.
Find the perfect mix of value, comfort, and convenience at this lovely hotel that boasts a pool and lounge.
This hotel is set in a charming environment that offers guest fun amenities like a bar and lounge and on-site tennis courts.
A mix of rustic and medieval styles, this unique stay has guests staying at various houses around the city.
A modern masterpiece in the heart of Lyon, guests will love their stay at this modern hotel that has a pool, gym, and lovely terrace.
This is a lovely hotel featuring a cozy bar and lounge, located near several top attractions in Vienne.
Guests will enjoy their stay at Hotel Schaeffer which is located among the gorgeous vineyards of the Rhône Valley.
Contemporary rooms and proximity to top attractions in Valence, such as the Musee de Valence, make this an ideal base for exploring the charming town of Valence.
A historic 17th-century private residence has been beautifully restored into a charming hotel complete with a tranquil courtyard and welcoming lounge.
Enjoy this small romantic hotel with a refreshing pool, billiards room, and a cozy bar and lounge.
Enjoy the charming and friendly ambience of this gorgeous hotel in a typically Provencal town, made up of several smaller houses, and set around a lovely tranquil patio filled with colourful flowers.
12 breakfasts are included.
Accommodations for 12 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Nevers and after the tour in St-Brevin-les-Pins are not included but can be added as a supplement. You can also book ahead to extend your stay at any of the overnight locations along the route.
Transportation for you and your luggage are included throughout the tour. Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
How hard is the Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange Coast tour?
We rate this tour a 3/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 70km in a day over a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be a fit cyclist to get the most out of this tour.
Do I need a visa to travel to Switzerland or France?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange Coast tour?
12 breakfasts are included on this tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Geneva to start this tour?
Fly into Geneva Airport (GVA) and take a shuttle bus to the city center where you’ll find your starting hotel. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to your accommodations as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer.
Where does the Full Via Rhôna Cycling Route: Geneva to Orange Coast tour end?
The tour ends in Orange. You can take a train from Orange to Geneva via Lyon, which takes approximately 5 hours. Once in Geneva, you can take public transport or a taxi to Geneva Airport (GVA) to depart. You can also depart out of Lyon Airport (LYS) to shorten the departure journey. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to the airport as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer.
Can I rent a bike?
Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are SCOTT Sub Cross 24-speed hybrid bikes or SCOTT E-Sub Tour e-bikes.
What equipment is included in the bike rental?
The bikes come with a pannier, handlebar bag, spare tube, tools, pump, helmet and lock.
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Switzerland or France?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Switzerland or France?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to France for this tour?
The best time to travel to the Loire Valley for this cycling tour is during the shoulder seasons of April-June and September-October when the crowds are lighter than during peak summer months (June-August).
All tours on 10Adventures are operated by highly vetted local tour operators and guides.
Having local tour operators and guides means you get a more authentic experience, and your booking creates jobs in the local communities you visit.
Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
There are no written reviews yet.
11 total ratings, 0 with reviewsStephen L.
I’ve been using 10A route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10A made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
Valeria R.
I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
Isabella N.
I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
We rate this tour a 3/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 70km in a day over a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be a fit cyclist to get the most out of this tour.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy! Let us take care of all the travel planning details, so you don’t have to.
Let us help you get exactly what YOU want with a customizable adventure tour centred around your active interests and passions.
We don’t believe in hidden fees like credit card fees, booking fees or more. Even better, most people can pay in their local currency!
We want your journey to meet your expectations, and we will work with you to solve any issues you’ve encountered.
Our dedicated adventure travel concierge will curate the perfect itinerary to make your travel dreams a reality.
Book with confidence, knowing that our team has carefully hand-picked each tour operator and they use local, experienced guides.
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers