the “Vélomaritime” with the family

Founded by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, Caen has preserved its remarkable heritage with its medieval castle, the Abbaye aux Hommes and the Abbaye aux Dames. Scarred by the Second World War but rebuilt with vigour, the city now offers a green and welcoming setting, perfect for a family holiday. Children particularly enjoy visiting the castle, exploring the Memorial, and discovering the lively parks and quays in the city centre.

Distance to cover: 17 km (10,5 miles)

This first stage follows the greenway from the Caen Canal to the sea, ideal for families. The flat and safe route allows you to cycle at a leisurely pace while enjoying the natural surroundings and the locks along the canal. Don’t miss a stop at Pegasus Bridge. This was one of the most strategic points of the landings and was liberated by a commando of British paratroopers very early in the night of 6 June. Young and old alike can discover history in a fun way thanks to the museum and explanations accessible to children.

The day ends in Ouistreham, a friendly seaside resort with large sandy beaches and a lively harbour.

Distance to cover: 18.5 km (11,5 miles)

This stage follows La Vélomaritime along a flat, safe route, offering varied views of the Normandy coastline as you head west. After Ouistreham, the circuit passes through sites emblematic of the 1944 D-Day landings. Sword Beach recalls the Allied operations on the east coast of Normandy, while Juno Beach, in Courseulles-sur-Mer, bears witness to the participation of Canadian forces in the landings. The Juno Beach Centre allows you to explore this major chapter in history, with exhibitions, authentic artefacts and stories that pay tribute to soldiers and civilians.

Courseulles-sur-Mer is a charming little port, and its sandy beaches are the perfect place to end a day at the beach.

Distance to cover: 33 km (20,5 miles)

We continue cycling westwards with a slightly longer day’s ride and many sites to discover along the way:

Arromanches: famous for its artificial harbour built during the D-Day landings.
The remains of ‘Mulberry B’ bear witness to the ingenuity of the Allies and provide an insight into how troops were supplied during Operation Neptune. The circular cinema recalls the tragic events, while the museum provides all the information you need to understand how the landings were organised.
A little further on, the German battery at Longues-sur-Mer offers an impressive view of the D-Day beaches and allows you to observe the perfectly preserved German defensive positions.
The circuit ends at Port-en-Bessin, a former strategic port used to transport fuel to the Allied forces.
Today, it is a small, lively and picturesque fishing port.

Distance to cover: 17.5 km (10,8 miles)

This final stage connects the coastline to the Normandy countryside, following a pleasant route through the heart of Bessin! An ideal stage to conclude the cycle tour. After leaving Port en Bessin and its maritime atmosphere, the route crosses green landscapes dotted with typical villages.

You finally arrive in Bayeux, one of the first French towns to be liberated by the Allies on 7 June 1944. Having escaped bombing, it is one of the few towns in the area to have preserved its medieval monuments.

So take some time to visit:
The Tapestry recounting the epic story of William the Conqueror in England in 1066
The cathedral built in honour of William
The old buildings in the historic centre
(The Bayeux Tapestry Museum is currently closed for renovation for two years. It is scheduled to reopen in October 2027).

For foodies, the town is full of excellent restaurants!

End of stay in Honfleur after breakfast or additional night to enjoy the town.