FRALV0039    Mont St Michel

Self-guided Brittany Bike Tour

An unforgettable journey through the historic heart of Brittany, this itinerary takes you from the iconic Mont Saint-Michel to the coastal beauty of Morlaix, weaving through medieval towns, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Over 9 days, you’ll experience a blend of architectural wonders, local gastronomy, and breathtaking seascapes that make Brittany so magical.

Start

Pontorson

Finish

Morlaix

Lodging

casual

Level

moderate to challenging

Avg. dist. cycled

50km / 31mi

Cycling Days

7

Fly-In

Rennes Bretagne Airport (RNS).

Fly-Out

Brest Bretagne Airport (BES)

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 10

Highlights

Highlight Image

Mont Saint-Michel, the Wonder of the West

The tour starts in Pontorson, just 8 kms from Mont Saint-Michel, allowing for easy access to this UNESCO World Heritage monument and pilgrimage site, often called the "wonder of the west"

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

DayPlacecasual Inns (subject to availability)MealsDistanceActivity
DAY 1PontorsonHotel MontgomeryB
DAY 2Saint-MaloQuic en GroigneB62km / 38micycling
DAY 3ErquyLe BeauséjourB70km / 43micycling
DAY 4BinicLe BenhuycB65km / 40micycling
DAY 5PaimpolLes Hauts de KeranoB40km / 25micycling
DAY 6TrégastelHotel Bellevue TregastelB56km / 35micycling
DAY 7LocquirecGrand Hotel des Bains (4-star)B60km / 37.3micycling
DAY 8MorlaixGrand Hotel EuropeB42km / 26micycling
DAY 9DepartureB

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Pontorson

Arrive in the town of Pontorson in Normandy and check-in to your hotel. The famous Mont St Michel is only 8km/5mi away, so feel free to go an explore it.

Enjoy a traditional meal featuring local seafood and the famous omelet at La Mère Poulard.

Overnight stay is in a charming hotel that was served as the manor house of the Counts of Montgomery.

Meals: B
Accommodation: Hotel Montgomery
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Day 2: Saint-Malo

Our local team will meet you at your hotel at 10AM to hand over your bikes and other accessories you will need during your tour.

And thus, your Brittany adventure begins!

Start cycling towards Saint-Malo, a walled city steeped in maritime history. Walk along the ramparts, visit the Fort National, and dive into tales of corsairs or French privateers who once ruled the seas here, harassing English ships and capturing cargo. Saint-Malo is also well-known for the battle of Saint-Malo between Allied armies and the Germans during the Second World War.

In the afternoon, head to Cancale, a coastal town famous for its oysters. Sample fresh seafood while gazing out over Mont Saint-Michel Bay before continuing to your next stop.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 62km / 38mi
Accommodation: Quic en Groigne
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Day 3: Erquy

Start the morning by taking a ferry across the bay of the Rance river that separates Saint-Malo from Dinard. You can then start cycling towards Dinard surrounded by charming scenery. Dinard is called the "Cannes of the North", on account of its popularity among holiday-makers. Winston Chuchill loved holidaying here, while Thomas Edward Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia spent a part of his childhood here.

This part of coastal Brittany is called the Côte d'Émeraude or the Emerald coast.

Continue cycling through the communes of Briac sur Mer and Cap Fréhel to end the day's biking at Erquy.

Erquy is famous for many things.

For one, it is known for its scallops, so make sure to try some local delicacies here.

Erquy is also famous as being the inspiration behind village of the beloved. comic character Asterix.

Finally, Erquy is renowned for its pink sandstone cliffs, the stones from which have been used in the construction of its several charming houses.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 70km / 43mi
Accommodation: Le Beauséjour
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Day 4: Binic

Today you ride through Le Val André, famous for its fine sandy beach which is renowned for being one of the finest on the north coast of France. Continue riding past Saint-Brieuc, noted for its picturesque houses, and onwards towards Binic.

Binic is a historic town noted for its harbor and its market, dating back to the 16th century. In the 19th century, Binic was the main French port for deep sea fishing in Newfoundland. The Binic museum preserves several artefacts of the town's fascinating history, and is worth a visit while you're here.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 65km / 40mi
Accommodation: Le Benhuyc
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Day 5: Paimpol

Today is an easy day on the bike. Start by riding through the charming port town of Saint-Quaix-Portieux, before arriving at the historic Beauport Abbey. Also called the Abbey of St. Budoc, it was the abbey of the Prémontré Catholic order established in 1202 AD. Until the 18th century, the abbey was the hub of economic and religious life in the region. However, it fell in disuse after the French Revolution. Visitors can still visit the abbey and its grounds.

The ride ends in Paimpol, a charming seaside town with beautiful streets lined with colorful houses.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 40km / 25mi
Accommodation: Les Hauts de Kerano
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Day 6: Trégastel

Today you ride along the beautiful Cote d Granit Rose, or the Pink Granite Coast. The region is characterized by its unusual rock formations of pink granite. This is also the beating heart of Brittany, and heartland of the movement to preserve the fast disappearing Breton language native to Brittany. Breton is the only major Celtic language spoken on the European mainland, and is closely related to Cornish and Welsh.

Ride through charming sea side resort towns such as Treguier with its half-timbered houses, and Perros Guirec known for its pink granite rocks before arriving at Tregastel.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 56km / 35mi
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Day 7: Locquirec

Start your day by exploring the stunning Île Grande, a peaceful island known for its rugged coastline, sandy beaches, and diverse birdlife. Continue your journey to Trébeurden, a charming seaside town with picturesque harbors and breathtaking ocean views.

From there, cycle to Lannion, a historic town with half-timbered houses, a lively market, and scenic riverside paths. Pedal onward to St. Michel en Grève, where you can take in the vast sandy bay and enjoy a moment of relaxation by the water.

Finally, arrive at the pretty port of Locquirec, a hidden gem with quaint streets, inviting cafés, and a stunning coastline.

Along the way, savor the fresh sea air, take in the beauty of Brittany’s landscapes, and enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage. This route offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and coastal charm, making for an unforgettable day of cycling.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 60km / 37.3mi
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Day 8: Morlaix

Begin the final stage of your Brittany holiday by cycling through the scenic Trégor region, a picturesque area known for its rolling countryside and charming villages.

Make your way towards St. Jean du Doigt, a small but historically rich village famous for its Gothic church and legendary relic of St. John the Baptist. From there, continue to the mini port of Le Diben, a quiet fishing harbor where you can take in stunning coastal views and watch local boats come and go.

As you ride further, enjoy the rugged beauty of Brittany’s coastline, with its rocky cliffs and secluded coves. Finally, arrive in Morlaix, a vibrant town steeped in history, where you can explore its old town filled with half-timbered houses, winding streets, and the impressive viaduct towering above.

Take time to soak in the unique atmosphere of this medieval town, perhaps stopping at a local café for a well-earned break. This cycling route blends coastal charm, historical intrigue, and breathtaking scenery for an unforgettable day on two wheels.

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Meals: B
Cycling Distance: 42km / 26mi
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Europe

Day 9: Departure

It's time to say goodbye to beautiful Brittany.

Morlaix is well-connected by train and bus to major cities such as Paris and Brest.

Meals: B
Accommodation:

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Dates and Prices

Single Supplement

From US $830

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $150



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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

Exclusions

Airport pickup and drop

We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

Bikes

When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Bike Image

Scott Subcross or similar

hybrid

Included in your trip price

Bike Image

Rando Elios or similar

hybrid

Included in your trip price

Bike Image

Bosch E-bike or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

Your tour begins in Pontorson, Normandy.

The closest international airport to Pontorson is the Rennes Bretagne Airport (RNS). There are buses/trains going from Rennes to Pontorson (2-2.5 hours) or Morlaix (2-3 hours).

You can also take the train from Paris (Montparnasse), TGV+TER, with one connection at Rennes for a total travel time of approx. 3 hours 50 minutes.

Departure

Your tour ends in Morlaix.

The closest international airport to Morlaix is the Brest Bretagne Airport (BES). There are buses/trains going from Brest to Morlaix with travel times ranging from 2-2.5 hours.

If you arrive by one of the Paris airports, you may take a shuttle to Paris’s train station and then take a train from Paris to Pontorson or from Morlaix back to Paris easily.

Weather

The best months for cycling in Brittany are May through September, when the weather is mild, and the days are long.

May and June offer pleasant temperatures, typically ranging from 10–20°C (50–68°F), with fewer crowds and lush, green landscapes.

July and August are the warmest months, with temperatures averaging 15–25°C (59–77°F), making them ideal for cycling, though coastal breezes keep it comfortable. These months are also the busiest due to summer tourism.

September is a fantastic time to visit, with temperatures between 12–22°C (54–72°F) and fewer tourists, allowing for a more relaxed ride.

Please note that since we are riding along the coast for the most part, you can expect some rainfall even in the best months for cycling.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Offseason

April

Mixed

May

Best

June

Good

July

Good

August

Good

September

Best

October

Offseason

November

Offseason

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

What to Pack

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Visa Information

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Insurance

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Is proof of travel insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.

For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.

For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.

We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.

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