Cycling Abroad from Geneva to Marseilles

Why Cycling Abroad From Geneva to Marseilles

Some say that France is THE most beautiful country in the world. I would not argue with that statement, and just say that it is ONE OF THE MOST beautiful countries you can visit. And when it comes to cycling infrastructure, France has a lot to offer as well.

France has so much to offer besides so many well-marked, well-maintained cycling routes. The scenery, the food, the wine, the beauty, some great cities, chateaus, its history, and much more.

It seems that the main (and maybe only) problem when it comes to cycling in France is how to choose the right route to meet your expectations. I had several chances to ride in France: One of them was during our trip from Frankfurt to Zurich, when we crossed the border from Germany to France near the city of Cherbourg, and rode along Elsas, visiting beautiful Colmar, before heading back east to Basel, and Zurich.

The other bicycle trip in France is between Paris to Cherbourg, part of it along the Saine River, and Normandy. But this trip described here take place in a different area in France: the south.

About Our Bicycle Trip From Geneva to Marseilles

The uniqueness of this multi-day, self-guided bicycle trip is that it is very diverse, and even though you are cycling at a relatively slow speed (in comparison to other means of transportation, such as car or train), the landscape is changing quite dramatically.

You will start riding from Geneve Airport, overlooking the Alps. You will ride near Grenoble, visiting some beautiful lakes (such as Ancey and …). before heading west to join the EuroVelo route #17 located on the banks of the Rhone River.

As we get closer to the southern part of the trip, the landscape is changing. The greenish colors are gradually changing to brown, with some touches of the lavender’s purple strong colors. The architecture and the weather are changing as well.

In its last two days you will cross Provance, visiting the city of Isle-Sur-La-Sourg, before heading south to your final destination, Marseiless.

Trip Information

Origin	Geneve Airport
Via	Lake Anesey, Rhone River, Provance
Destination	Marseiless Airport
Distance	445Km (2326m Climb)
Cycling Level	Moderate
Map (Komoot)	Download the planned route

Geneva to Marseilles Trip Details – Day by Day

Day 1

We will start our trip after landing, taking the French side of Geneve airport. After reassembling your bicycles you will start riding towards Veyrier, a town located near the Telepherique du Saleve funicular lower station. You can take the cable car up the mountain. The funicular can accommodate up to 6 bikes, and it will take you to the Panorama Sur le basin Genevois, which is exactly what it is – A panoramic view of the southern part of Lake Geneva. You should stop there for a cold beer and some locally made Ginger tea.

Next the brake you will continue riding up and down along the beautiful rustic countryside road. The view of the towering Alps, including the famous Mont Blanc.

You can consider staying overnight at Domaine des Avenieres Castle, or continue riding to the lovely Inter Hotel Rey and conclude our first day with a great French dinner in the near by restaurant.

Route	Hotel
	Inter-Hôtel Rey

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 2

On this day you will visit two lakes: Lake Annecy and Lac du Bourget. After a typical local breakfast, consisting of many types of cheeses, cured meats, and croissants, you will start riding towards the beautiful Annecy. The road winds between picturesque villages and the green color dominate the views.

After crossing a beautiful bridge we arrived at the turquoise-colored Lake Annecy. I can suggest a short ride along its northern shore, and thereafter a coffee break at Annecy’s main street.

Continue riding southwest, the road is getting steeper by the minute. You will find beautiful countryside if you just dare to leave the main road, and avoid the busy traffic. Back to the main road, it will lead you to Brison Saint Innocent, located on the eastern bank of Lac du Bourget, the biggest lake in France, where your final destination for the day, Hotel & Spa Marina d’Adelphia is located.

Route	Hotel
	Hotel & Spa Marina d’Adelphia

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 3

After the first 15 warmup kilometers along the east bank of Lac du Bourget, you will start a long and continuous climb southward, passing some charming villages. The final 10 Km were a long and steep downhill towards your destination – Hotel Novotel Voreppe.

Route	Hotel
	Novotel Grenoble Nord Voreppe

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 4

After yesterday’s tough ride, today’s ride is relatively short and easy, and very enjoyable. At first, you will ride along the L’Isere River. The trail is quite flat, with only a few slopes here and there, and a few crossings of the river.

Today’s hotel is a family-style, small place. At Maison Bel Canto you will be welcomed by the owner. You can expect a unique and authentic experience, another proof that sometimes the best things in life are unplanned.

Route	Hotel
	Hôtel du Musée de l’Eau

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 5

After a French typical breakfast that includes baguettes and croissants you will head to the Rhone Valley. On the way, you will ride along the southern bank of L’Isere in a well-marked and signed bicycle path towards the city of Romans Sur Isere.

After stopping for a short coffee and cake break there you continue riding along the river until the L’Isere meets the Rhone River. On your way, you will pass some cherry orchards, and if you are lucky enough you will have the chance to join the cherry-picking party.

Riding along ViaRhone, a well-made and beautiful way – one of the longest France national bike trails, the scenery changed and the Alps will seem to you quite distant. you will arrive at the lovely town of Valance, and continue riding along the ViaRohne until reaching your final stop for that day – the town of Pouzin.

Route	Hotel
	La Saleine

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 6

In the first half of the day you will still ride along the Rhone River. On your way, you can stop in the village of Vivarais, or ride along the narrow streets of Pierelatte. As you approach the Mediterranean sea, the views are gradually changing. The greenish colors of the northern part of the route turn yellow.

Route	Hotel
	Relais du Silence Le Moulin de Valaurie

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 7

Today, on your way to Provence, you will ride along some pastoral trails and by rustic country Mansions surrounded by fragrant lavender fields. You will visit the city of Orange, time permitting. I would recommend you to stop at the village of Uchaux, where you can enjoy a fresh coffee and a cake.

For several kilometers you will ride along a unique bike trail built on top of an old railroad, on your way to the town of Carpentras, where you can have your lunch break. Do not forget to try the unique and delicious lavender ice cream. You can also visit the most ancient synagogue in France, located in the city center.

After visiting Carpentras you will continue riding southwards to your final destination of the day: the magical town of L’Isle sur-la-Sorgue, where you can spend the evening drinking a cool beer by the river, and have a quality French dinner.

Route	Hotel
	Hotel Les Nevons

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

Day 8

Unbelievable: Today is your last riding day. You can take a morning tour of the picturesque streets and market of L’isle Sur la Sorgue, before continuing riding out of town. The pastoral countryside views are slowly changing as you approach the urban area of Marseiless.

On your way to the town of Coucoux you will pass Mallemort and Lambesc. A long climb is followed by a steep descend, with impressive views. On the 2’nd half of the day, you will approach your final destination: the Best Western Marseille Airport.

Route	Hotel
	Best Western Marseille Aeroport

Here you can download the Planned Route and our Actual Route.

What’s Next

If you like my Geneva to Marseilles self-guided bicycle trip you are invited to Contact Us to get more detailed information, including variations to the basic trip, tips about the best season to travel and much more advice from my and other travelers experience. You are also welcome to check out some of my own bicycle trips to get an idea of this type of exciting cycling style.

Useful Links

• Komoot – The Best bicycle trip planning and tracking tool
• Bicycle Route Planner
• Via Rhona
• France Velo Tourism
• BikeMap.cpm
• Geneve Weather
• Marseille Weather

Pictures

“Don’t go around saying the world owes you a living.
The world owes you nothing. It was here first.”
Mark Twain