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VéloSud, from Lourdes to Biarritz

Price per person

From 1040€

Type of stay

Bicycle trip

Location

Lourdes, Biarritz - France

Duration

7 jours

Difficulty

Departures

Available on request every day from April to October. No departures on Wednesdays on the Lourdes–Biarritz route

Capacity

2 personnes minimum

Reference

Cyclo 60

Your stay

Cycling tour from Lourdes to Biarritz

The ‘Vélosud’ is a brand-new 658-kilometre cycle route, offering a more accessible alternative to the Pyrenean mountains. Running from Biarritz to Barcarès, this route follows the French side of the Pyrenees, passing through the picturesque landscapes of the Pyrenean Piedmont.
Whilst it avoids the legendary but very challenging mountain passes, the Vélosud route focuses on the cultural heritage of the various regions of the Pyrenees, such as the Basque Country and Béarn. The cycle route offers views of the peaks of the Pyrenees and passes through magnificent valleys, taking in numerous picturesque, traditional villages: Nay, Sauveterre-de-Béarn, Salies-de-Béarn, Urt… Not to mention major towns such as Lourdes, Pau, Bayonne and Biarritz.

From the Sanctuary of Lourdes to the Rocher de la Vierge in Biarritz, via the Château de Pau; it’s impossible to draw up a complete and exhaustive list of the places of interest to discover along the Vélosud route.

You’ll be accommodated every evening in 3-star hotels or charming guesthouses.

You'll enjoy :

Discover Lourdes and its many monuments
Pau, the capital of Béarn, where town meets countryside – do take the time to explore the town
The Town of Salt: Salies-de-Béarn
The charming, picturesque villages of Sauveterre-de-Béarn and Urt
Set off to explore Biarritz and Bayonne and immerse yourself in Basque culture
An accessible cycle route running alongside the Pyrenees mountain range

Back to travel

Daily program

Day 1 - Arrival in Lourdes

You will be welcomed at your hotel in Lourdes. You will be given information about the region and a travel guide setting out your itinerary.

Situated in the heart of the Pyrenees, Lourdes is the fourth-largest Catholic shrine in the world. Famous for the Grotto of Massabielle, where Bernadette Soubirous is said to have seen the Virgin Mary in 1858, it attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists who come to pray or explore its heritage.

Overnight stay in a 4* B&B hotel, including breakfast.

Day 2 - From Lourdes to Pau

On this stage from Lourdes to Pau, you will leave the Marian town, world-famous for its sanctuary. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, with its famous Grotto of Massabielle, is the heart of the town. It was here that Bernadette Soubirous is said to have had her visions in 1858, and today, millions of pilgrims come to pray and reflect, hoping to find healing and inner peace. The baths of Lourdes, where believers immerse themselves in the waters of the miraculous spring, are also a tradition for many visitors.
Following the course of the Gave de Pau, you will then reach SaintPé-de-Bigorre, home to the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Bétharram. Founded in the 17th century by the priests of the Congregation of Bétharram, this sanctuary, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, welcomes many pilgrims every year. Just a few kilometres away, the Bétharram Caves are one of the region’s most beautiful natural sites. Discovered in the 19th century, this vast network of galleries, chambers and remarkable geological formations is a true masterpiece sculpted by nature.
Finally, you will continue your journey towards Pau, passing through the charming village of Nay – whose architecture is typical of the bastides of the South-West – before reaching the capital of Béarn, at the foot of the Pyrenees.

Overnight stay in a 3-star B&B with breakfast.

Day 3 - From Pau to Orthez

Setting off from Pau, the capital of Béarn, you’ll enjoy an exceptional setting at the foot of the Pyrenees, with superb panoramic views of the mountain range. The town is particularly renowned for its castle, the former residence of the Kings of Navarre, which now houses a museum dedicated to the history of the region and the royal family.
Before setting off, be sure to visit Boulevard des Pyrénées, an iconic spot offering breathtaking views of the Pyrenean peaks.
As you follow the Gave de Pau valley, taking a few detours through charming villages in the Béarn region, you’ll gradually reach Orthez.
On arrival, you can continue exploring by making the most of the town’s leisure centre. Its lake offers a peaceful, leafy setting ideal for a range of water sports, such as fishing, canoeing and pedalos. Hiking enthusiasts will also enjoy the walking trails that criss-cross the surrounding area and offer beautiful views of the Béarn countryside.

Overnight stay in a B&B, guesthouse or 3* hotel, including breakfast.

Day 4 - From Orthez to Salies-de-Béarn

Starting from Orthez, the former capital of Béarn, take the time to explore its iconic heritage. Its Pont Vieux, dating from the 14th century, is the town’s symbol. With its majestic arches, it spans the Gave de Pau and offers a splendid view of the surrounding area. As you stroll through the historic centre, don’t miss the Moncade Tower, an impressive remnant of an ancient fortified castle, as well as SaintPierre Church, notable for its architecture.
You will then leave the Gave de Pau valley for the day and follow the classic Vélosud route to reach Sauveterre-de-Béarn, on the banks of the Gave d’Oloron. Listed as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’, this medieval village charms visitors with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and the ruins of its ancient fortress. Overlooking the Gave d’Oloron, discover the majestic Saint-André Church, the famous Pont de la Légende and the Monréal Tower, which offers a superb panoramic view of the surrounding area.
You will then continue your journey to Salies-de-Béarn, famous for its history closely linked to salt. This charming spa town invites you to stroll through its picturesque narrow streets and discover its well-preserved heritage, featuring old houses, Belle Époque architecture and a
peaceful atmosphere.

Shorter option via VéloSud
20 km + 188 m | – 212 m
You can choose to stay on the VéloSud route and take a shorter, easier stage along the Gave de
Pau.

Overnight stay in a B&B, guesthouse or 3-star hotel, including breakfast.

Day 5 - From Salies-de-Béarn to Urt

Starting from Salies-de-Béarn, take the time to explore this charming town, renowned for its salt springs. A veritable oasis of greenery, it has been known since ancient times for the healing properties of its thermal waters. Its rich heritage bears witness to this unique history: don’t miss the old salt works, the thermal baths, the Museum of Salt and Béarn Traditions, and the Bayaà crypt.
As you leave Salies-de-Béarn, the banks of the Bidouze and then the Adour will guide you peacefully through the Pyrenean foothills. You will pass through Bidache, where the Château de Gramont stands.
Listed as a historic monument, this building illustrates the evolution of castle architecture from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Burned down in 1523, it was rebuilt and transformed into a stately castle by the Gramont family before being ravaged by fire once again in the 18th century. From its keep, you’ll enjoy an exceptional 360° panoramic view of the Bidouze valley and the Pyrenees mountain range.
Your stage will end in Urt, a peaceful village nestled on the banks of the Adour. Renowned for its river port and fishing tradition, it is a delightful gateway to the Basque Country. Its natural setting, between the river and the green hills, makes it an ideal stopover before continuing your journey.

Overnight stay in a 3-star B&B with breakfast.

Day 6 - From Urt to Biarritz

Setting off from the little harbour of Urt, you’ll follow the banks of the Adour towards Bayonne. A ‘City of Art and History’, Bayonne charms visitors with its rich heritage and warm atmosphere. Take the time to stroll along the Vauban ramparts that encircle the city. Built on the remains of the first Roman fortifications of the ancient castrum of Lapurdum, they bear witness to the city’s military past. Discover also Sainte-Marie Cathedral and the Grand Bayonne district with its historic alleyways, then let yourself be charmed by the lively atmosphere of Petit Bayonne, renowned for its many cafés and restaurants where you can sample Basque specialities.
As you leave Bayonne, the River Adour will guide you to the coast. You’ll reach the long, golden sandy beaches of Anglet before following the cliffs to the Biarritz lighthouse. Your journey will end overlooking the ocean, in the heart of Biarritz.
Biarritz is one of the most renowned seaside resorts in France and Europe. Its magnificent ocean beaches and the surfing enjoyed there, its thalassotherapy treatments and its numerous golf courses are appreciated all over the world. Come evening, its restaurants, bars and nightlife venues will make for a delightful evening.

Overnight stay in a 3-star B&B with breakfast.

Day 7 - Departure

Departure after breakfast

rates

Price per person

	April to October	July and August
7 days – 6 nights :	1040 €	1100 €

The price includes

6 nights in 3* and 4* hotels or guesthouses, including breakfast (in a double or twin room)
The itinerary (map and directions)
1 GPS app
Luggage transfer at each stop
Hotline 24/7

Extra charge

Touring bike : 185 €
Electric bike : 325 €
Gravel bike : 315 €

Further information

Nous nous occupons de transporter vos bagages à chaque changement d’hébergement afin que vous voyagiez léger et profitiez pleinement de votre randonnée journalière.

Vous laissez vos bagages à l’accueil de votre hébergement avant votre départ.

En fin d’après-midi, vous les retrouvez à la réception de votre nouvel hébergement ou directement dans votre chambre.

Bagages acceptés par personne : 1 valise ou sac de voyage (23 kg maximum) + 1 bagage à main.

Votre dossier de voyage correspond aux documents ou fichiers que vous recevez avant votre voyage (généralement un mois avant) et/ou à votre arrivée au premier hébergement.

Il inclut :

Un courrier d’accueil avec les principales informations pratiques :

La plage horaire des transports de bagages
Le détail de la livraison et de la récupération des vélos de location si besoin
Votre contact sur place et le(s) numéro(s) de téléphone en cas d’urgence
Des informations complémentaires éventuelles

Le carnet de voyage incluant carte avec le tracé (à l’échelle adaptée) et indications directionnelles, touristiques et pratiques

Les vouchers éventuels nécessaires à remettre au(x) prestataire(s)

Sur demande et en fonction des circuits :

L’application « Evazio » à télécharger sur smartphone pour une navigation « GPS » avec guidage visuel (lecture du tracé sur l’écran de votre smartphone) et/ou oral. L’application contient également des informations pratiques et touristiques. Une fois le voyage téléchargé, aucune connexion internet n’est nécessaire
Le prêt d’un appareil GPS avec les traces préenregistrées
L’envoi des traces GPX de chaque étape à utiliser avec votre propre support de navigation

Sur ce circuit, nous vous proposons de vous fournir au choix et sur réservation :

Un vélo VTC adapté à la randonnée et au parcours

Un vélo électrique adapté au parcours

Avec son équipement :

Antivol

Casque

1 sacoche arrière
1 sacoche guidon
1 kit de réparation
1 casque (sur demande)
1 antivol
1 chargeur (pour le vélo électrique)

Un vélo gravel

Pour les plus jeunes, nous pouvons proposer en fonction de l’âge et de la taille

Un vélo enfant
Un siège bébé
Une remorque
Un vélo suiveur

Le vélo est ajusté à votre taille et livré au premier hébergement.

A la fin du circuit, le vélo doit être laissé au dernier hébergement avec son équipement. Nous nous occuperons de leur récupération.

Ce circuit est proposé en catégorie “supérieure”

Rappel des catégories hôtelières :

Confort : Le circuit présente principalement des hôtels classés 2 et 3 étoiles (ou niveau de confort équivalent) et des chambres d‘hôtes.
Supérieure : Le circuit présente principalement des hôtels classés 3 et 4 étoiles (ou niveau de confort équivalent) et chambres d’hôtes de charme.
Luxe : Le circuit présente principalement des hôtels 4 et 5 étoiles (ou niveau de confort équivalent)

Durant toute la durée de votre séjour, notre assistance téléphonique est disponible :