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.
Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon
Prices
Highlights
Spend 7 days cycling the Via Rhôna from Switzerland to France on this guided tour
Experience the legendary Via Rhôna cycling route on the 7-day self-guided Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour. This mesmerizing cycling holiday, which takes you from the magnetic streets of Geneva to Leon's picturesque lanes, is the perfect way to experience the beauty of the Alps and the charm of the French countryside as you explore the upper Rhône Valley. The well-known Via Rhôna cycling route has seen cyclists riding from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean since 1995. The 815km route comprises a portion of the famous EuroVelo cycling route, and this tour invites you to experience a section of it.
Discover a true "global city" as you begin your tour in Geneva, where you'll enjoy world-class dining and spectacular sightseeing. Then, hop on your bike and take in the beauty of the Alps as you pedal into France. Explore and stay overnight in Seyssel, Champagneux, Villebois, Pérouges, and Lyon, where your tour concludes.
The Via Rhôna will have you cruising through the awe-inspiring mountains and valleys of the upper Rhône, where you'll discover an authentic France. Cycle through medieval villages, explore majestic castles and cruise alongside sprawling vineyards as you make your way towards the elegant city of Lyon. Once in Lyon, savour the experience of visiting a true gastronomic hub of France, where dining is nothing short of a divine experience.
Along the cycling route, enjoy either standard or deluxe accommodations during your overnight stays in the most iconic towns and villages on the Rhône.
Hop on your bike and discover an extraordinary side of France on the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour.
Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival
Your tour begins in the “capital of peace,” cosmopolitan Geneva, full of vibrant charm and situated on the famous Lake Geneva. Settle into your accommodations here and set out on a stroll along the lake, followed by dinner at one of the city’s many spectacular restaurants.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Geneva
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 2 Switzerland to France
With your sights set on France, you'll depart Geneva this morning, tracing the Rhône to discover the "Défilé de l'Écluse" as you pedal a series of vineyards interspersed with spectacular views of the alps mountains and valleys.
Arriving in Seyssel, you'll note a departure from the hustle and bustle of Geneva as you settle into your cozy hotel in the quiet town of Seyssel, perched on the banks of the Rhône.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Seyssel
- Distance
- 60km
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 3 Cycle Small Villages to Champagneux
A delightful ride awaits you this morning as you set out, hugging both banks of the Rhône, enjoying your amiable position between lofty ridges and a plateau. Arrive in Chanaz and perhaps stop for lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the Savières Canal.
You’ll ride to Culoz and Belley, two quintessential small French villages brimming with warmth and charm. Your last ride will be to tonight’s accommodations in beautiful Champagneux, where you’ll spend an evening savouring local food and wine.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Champagneux
- Distance
- 58km
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 4 Cycle Small Villages to Villebois
Bound for Villebois, you'll cruise through a lovely collection of small villages on your ride this morning. Saint-Genix-Sur-Guiers comes into view first, and you'll want to hop off your bike here to try their famous brioche pralines, perhaps grabbing a doggy bag for the road! Continue to Glandieu, where you'll take in a beautiful waterfall as you cruise through a lovely natural oasis.
Press on to Villebois, where you'll spend another lovely evening.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Villebois
- Distance
- 65km
- Meals
- Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5 Cycle Burgey to Pérouges
Your experience on the Via Rhôna will introduce you to the serene countryside of Bugey as you pedal a scenic route just above the Rhône. Today you’ll ride through Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey, Sault-Brénaz, and La Balme-les-Grottes, known for its cryptic caves and vibrant town center.
Following several stops in picturesque villages along the way, you’ll arrive in Pérouges, a medieval town known as one of France’s most beautiful towns. Enjoy!
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Pérouges
- Distance
- 54km
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 6 Sail into Lyon
Your final day of cycling will first take you through the parks and lakes of greater Lyon and then into the vibrant city center. Cruise the banks of the Rhône, and you’ll soon spot the river’s confluence with the Saône. You’ll enjoy a day exploring Lyon however you please!
Whatever you decide to get up to in this captivating city, be sure to reward yourself with a farewell dinner at one of 20 Bouchons in the city where you’ll enjoy authentic Lyonnaise cuisine and fantastic local wines. Raise a toast to a magical week cycling the Via Rhôna and enjoy your final evening of the tour in Lyon!
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Lyon
- Distance
- 46km
- Meals
- Breakfast
Day 7 Departure
Your cycling tour comes to an end this morning following breakfast. Check out of your hotel and depart for the airport.
- Overnight Location
- None
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- Breakfast
Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon Price and Dates
This self-guided cycling tour along the Rhône is run as a private tour for your group and the price depends on the time of year in which you choose to travel, the class of accommodation, and the kind of accommodation you prefer.
Prices below are per person:
Standard Accommodation
- Price per solo traveller: $1,550USD
- Price per person staying in a single room (group of 2+): $1,395USD
- Price per person sharing a double room: $995USD
- Price per person sharing a triple room: $875USD
Deluxe Accommodation
- Price per solo traveller: $1,750USD
- Price per person staying in a single room (group of 2+): $1,595USD
- Price per person sharing a double room: $1,125USD
- Price per person sharing a triple room: $1,025USD
Accommodation on the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour
This tour is available with either standard or deluxe accommodations. Hotels and B&Bs on the standard tour are 2-star and 3-star and offer basic conveniences. Hotels and B&Bs on the deluxe tour are 3-star and 4-star and offer modern conveniences.
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.
Night 2
Hotel Beau Séjour in Seyssel
Guests will enjoy the lovely terrace and great bar at this simple but charming hotel.
Night 3
See Tripadvisor ReviewsB&B Les Vieilles Portesc in Champagneux
This is a cozy B&B that offers guests a “home away from home” feel, well-located in Champagneux.
Night 4
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHôtel Domaine des Cèdre in Villebois
This hotel is set in a charming environment that offers guest fun amenities like a bar and lounge and on-site tennis courts.
Night 5
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel la Bérangère in Perouges
A small family-friendly hotel that welcomes guests with open arms and has an outdoor pool and excellent restaurant.
Night 6
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHotel Ibis Gerland Musée des Confluences in Lyon
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.
Standard Accommodation
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.
Night 2
See Tripadvisor ReviewsL’Hôtel du Rhône in Seyssel
Guests will enjoy their stay at this stylish hotel with plenty to keep them entertained, from a billiards room to karaoke.
Night 3
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHôtel les Bergeronnettes in Champagneux
Find the perfect mix of value, comfort, and convenience at this lovely hotel that boasts a pool and lounge.
Night 4
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHôtel Domaine des Cèdre in Villebois
This hotel is set in a charming environment that offers guest fun amenities like a bar and lounge and on-site tennis courts.
Night 5
See Tripadvisor ReviewsHostellerie de Pérouges in Pérouges
A mix of rustic and medieval styles, this unique stay has guests staying at various houses around the city.
Night 6
See Tripadvisor ReviewsNovotel Gerland Musée des Confluences in Lyon
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.
Deluxe Accommodations
What’s Included in the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour?
Meals
6 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 6 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Geneva and after the tour in Lyon 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 during the Tour
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.
Also Included
- Detailed route notes and maps
- Tourist information on all places of interest
- Tourist city tax
- 24/7 emergency phone support
Not included
- Travel insurance
- Flights
- Guide services
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Visas is required
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before, during, or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Deluxe hotel option
- Bike rental:
-
- Hybrid bike: $125USD
- E-bike: $250USD
Frequenty Asked Questions about Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon
How hard is the Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour?
We rate this tour a 3/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 60km in a day, potentially with the help of an e-bike. The terrain is a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be an experienced cyclist to get the most out of this tour.
Do I need a visa to travel to 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 Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour?
6 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 start point 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 Rhône River by Bike: Geneva to Lyon tour end?
The tour ends in Lyon. You can fly out of Lyon Airport (LYS) or travel back to Geneva by train. 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 Men/Lady Alloy Frame 24-speed hybrid bikes or SCOTT E-Sub 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 France?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for 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 Upper Rhône Valley for this cycling tour is during the shoulder seasons of April-May and September when there are lighter crowds and mild temperatures.
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Tour Difficulty
We rate this tour a 3/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 60km in a day, potentially with the help of an e-bike. The terrain is a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be an experienced cyclist to get the most out of this tour.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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