Paris - Mont Saint Michel by bike, on the Véloscénie itinerary

So, have you decided to embark on the Véloscénie adventure? Well, strap on your helmet, because it's off to a great start! The starting point is none other than the square in front of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, ground zero on the roads of France (it's quite a sight, isn't it? 😎 ).

After a few pedal strokes between the streets of Paris, slaloming between its emblematic monuments, we head for the "coulée verte", starting at Place de Catalogne. The coulée verte is a kind of red carpet for cyclists. It's a greenway that takes you safely and smoothly out of the hectic city of lights. And if you're the curious type, a short detour will take you to the splendid Domaine Départemental de Sceaux. A place not to be missed! 🏞

The quiet roads of the Bièvre valley then take over. Feel that sense of freedom? That's the Véloscénie spirit. And before you know it, the royal city of Versailles appears on the horizon. We told you it was off to a great start! 💪

Leaving Versailles, the route takes us directly to the heart of the Vallée de Chevreuse, a pearl nestled at the gateway to Paris. 🌳

Here, every pedal stroke reveals a new treasure: majestic châteaux, museums rich in history, picturesque lavoirs and little villages that seem to have come straight out of a postcard. And what about the local delicacies that punctuate this stage? Melting cheese, sweet syrups and even craft beer (in moderation, because we stay in the saddle!): enough to recharge the batteries after a few kilometers! 🧀🍺

The vast and majestic Rambouillet forest stretches out before us. Its cycling trails and soothing landscapes are a paradise for cyclists in search of tranquillity. Then there's the Eure valley, with its bucolic landscapes and pretty villages like Épernon, a real invitation to stroll (don't forget the lens though 😉 ).

And finally, here we are in Chartres! This city, famous for its luminous stained glass windows and exceptional historical heritage, is the perfect conclusion to this memorable stage. As we arrive, we can't help but marvel at the cathedral that stands proudly in the sky. The shadow of its towers invites us to explore its alleyways, discover its secrets and, of course, take a well-deserved break 🥳.

After a last, admiring look at the luminous Chartres cathedral, we slowly make our way into the nascent Loir valley, heading for Illiers-Combray. For fans of literature, this village is sure to ring a bell: it was here that Marcel Proust drew his inspiration for "À la recherche du temps perdu". A literary outing in the middle of our cycling epic, who would have thought? 📖

But make no mistake, the journey continues, and nature is shaping up to be the star of the show (with some diva-like whims, at times! ⛈️). Leaving the Beauce plain behind, the route plunges us into the heart of the Parc Naturel du Perche. And here, a life-size postcard unfolds before our eyes: green countryside, steep hills, picturesque villages and manor houses. If you're lucky, you might even come across a Percheron horse, the sturdy and proud emblem of this region. 🐎

Yes, the Perche, with its authentic landscapes, is one of those places where every step is a discovery. And even if some routes require a little effort, every pedal stroke is worth it. The views? Simply splendid. At the finish line, the silhouette of the Château Saint-Jean in Nogent-le-Rotrou, historic capital of the Counts of Perche, greets you, as if to reward you for this adventure through its territory. 🏰

Normandy, with its breathtaking panoramas and rich heritage, has always been a favorite destination for nature lovers. But to experience it all by bike? It's a totally different kind of tourism experience! 🚴‍♀️

Nogent-le-Rotrou to Alençon: Crossing the Normandy countryside

After bidding farewell (hopefully not too tearfully 🥹 ) to the splendid Château Saint-Jean in Nogent-le-Rotrou, head for Alençon! On the way, be prepared for "ohs" and "ahs" at every turn, as the rolling countryside of the Parc Naturel Régional is a visual feast.

Once you reach Alençon, it's time to take a break! After all, it would be almost criminal not to stop and admire the delicate art of Alençon Point lace. This art is so classy, it's been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hats off to you! 🌍👒

Alençon to Bagnoles-de-l'Orne: a getaway between forests and hot springs

When you leave Alençon, put on your sunglasses, because you're about to shine brightly in the Normandie-Maine Regional Nature Park! 😎 Between the Écouves forest and the Château de Carrouges, the kilometers fly by like Instagram stories: fast but still impressive.

And to top off this sporty escapade, there's nothing like... a spa! Welcome to Bagnoles-de-l'Orne, the spa that combines the glamour of Belle Époque villas with the well-being of a bubble bath. Let yourself be pampered, you've earned it! 🛁🌟

Bagnoles-de-l'Orne to Mont Saint-Michel: The approach to the legendary monument

Departure from Bagnoles-de-l'Orne is marked by a passage along the edge of the Andaines forest, then set course for the medieval town of Domfront: an unmissable visit (it's almost like being in an episode of Game of Thrones 🐉 )!

As the route continues, the landscape changes, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The Mortain waterfalls, unique in western France, are well worth a detour. But the highlight of the show is yet to come. 🥰

Nothing really prepares you for the majesty of the finish. Like a mirage in the center of the bay, the silhouette of Mont Saint-Michel takes shape, offering a spectacle to match all your previous stages. It's there, grandiose, a vibrant reminder of history, heritage and sheer beauty. 🌅

As you enter the historic center, you feel the ancient soul of the place, each stone telling a story, each alley evoking bygone eras. A visit to the abbey, perched at the summit, is a must. From its terraces, you can look back and see the road travelled, a winding road of discovery and adventure. 🛤

My best memory? The morning after spending a serene night in the very heart of Mont Saint-Michel. When I woke up, a peaceful atmosphere enveloped the cobbled streets. Far from the usual crowds, I was able to discover the Mont's authentic charms. 🚶‍♂️

In the final analysis, the Véloscénie is much more than just a bike ride, it's a journey through the history, culture and landscapes of rural France. And even if it's not the destination that counts, but the journey, this one's still pretty incredible, isn't it? 🚴‍♂️🌅🏰