Road to Freedom

Welcome to Caen, the historic heart of Normandy and emblematic city of William the Conqueror’s duchy. Founded in the Middle Ages and marked by the Second World War, Caen offers a rich and contrasting heritage. Visitors can explore the vast Château de Caen, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe, admire the two abbeys founded by William and Matilda – the Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames – or stroll through the historic Vaugueux district. The Caen Memorial, a major museum dedicated to peace and 20th-century history, is also a must-see. With its heritage, culture and relaxed lifestyle, Caen is a wonderful starting point for your cycling adventure.

Distance to cover: 36km ( 23 miles)

Starting from Caen, the route first takes you along the Orne Canal, a flat and pleasant course where you can enjoy the calm of the water and the passing boats. Along the way, the silhouette of the Pegasus Memorial recalls the early hours of the D-Day landings, a moving and unmissable site. As you approach the coast, the air becomes saltier and the horizon opens up: you then reach Courseulles sur Mer, a lively fishing port and key location in the Juno Beach sector. The seaside, with its wide beaches, historical remains and summer atmosphere, offers a peaceful arrival. A gentle, easy day rich in discoveries, between river landscapes, nature and memorial sites.

Distance to cover: 35km ( 22 miles)

From Courseulles sur Mer, the day begins along the coastline, with views of the vast beaches and low cliffs that saw the Allies land in 1944. Very quickly, the route leads to Arromanches-les-Bains, famous for the remains of the Mulberry artificial harbour, a symbol of the ingenuity of the D-Day landings. The site offers impressive views of the sea and the beach, as well as a fascinating museum recounting these historic events. You then continue westward to reach Port-en-Bessin, a picturesque little port where colourful trawlers rub shoulders with pleasure boats. With its bustling quays, fish markets and stone houses, the place perfectly embodies the maritime charm of Normandy, while preserving the memory of a strong and moving past.

Distance to cover: 42km ( 26 miles)

From Port-en-Bessin, the day begins by following the coast eastwards. Very quickly, the route reaches Omaha Beach, one of the iconic beaches of the D-Day landings. Its wide stretches of sand and remnants of the Atlantic Wall evoke the intense fighting of June 1944. Not far from there, the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer pays tribute to the thousands of soldiers who fell for the Liberation, offering a place for reflection and remembrance.The route then continues to Pointe du Hoc, a spectacular cliff overlooking the sea, where American Rangers scaled the cliffs to take German positions. The craters and bunkers are a reminder of the violence of the fighting, while the views of the coastline offer an impressive panorama of the Normandy coast.Leaving the sea behind, the route crosses the Normandy countryside, between meadows, hedges and small traditional farms, before arriving at Isigny sur Mer, a charming little town known for its dairy products and its quiet river port.

Distance to cover: 58km ( 36 miles)

From Isigny-sur-Mer, the route gradually moves away from the coastline to cross the Carentan marshes, vast expanses of water and meadows where nature reigns supreme. Here, the flora and fauna are remarkable: herons, egrets, wild ducks and marsh flowers accompany cyclists.You then reach the coast at Utah Beach, one of the D-Day landing beaches, famous for the American troops’ assault. The remains of the Atlantic Wall and nearby museums provide an insight into the history that unfolded here. The west coast of the Cotentin then reveals itself in all its wild beauty: deserted beaches, low cliffs, dunes and fishing villages punctuate your ride.Finally, you arrive at Saint-Vaast-la-Hougue, a lively port famous for its Vauban towers, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for its authentic maritime atmosphere.

Distance to cover: 45km ( 28 miles)

From Saint-Vaast la Hougue, the route first follows the eastern coastline of the Cotentin Peninsula to Barfleur, one of the most beautiful villages in France. This historic fishing port, with its granite houses and bustling quays, is a must-see stop to enjoy the maritime atmosphere and local heritage. After Barfleur, the route leaves the coastline to follow the valley of the Saire, a small winding river lined with meadows and traditional farms. This peaceful path allows you to discover another side of the Cotentin. You finally arrive at your destination. In Cherbourg, immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of a large seaport and explore the Cité de la Mer, a fascinating museum about the oceans, submarines and legendary transatlantic liners. Then stroll through the city centre to fully enjoy the life and charm of this Cotentin town.