Cycling The Grand Crus of Bordeaux

Cycling information

The route takes you on quiet country lanes and well marked paths through vineyards to sleepy villages. Well marked cycling paths are also used throughout.

Day 1: Arrival in Bordeaux

A world-renowned city, Bordeaux is famed for its vineyards, gastronomy, and unique art de vivre. The newly redesigned banks of the River Garonne provide the setting for a stroll and the Old Town, listed by UNESCO, is a treasure box of 18th Century architectural gems.
You stay at Hotel Novotel St Jean**** (Breakfast included)

Day 2: Bordeaux - Cadillac (48km/29.8mi)

Today discover the taste of 'Entre deux Mers' appellation: the Garonne River to the south, the Dordogne River to the north makes incredible diversity of relief, exposure and soils also mean that the wine come here in all colors. Dry and sweet whites, reds, roses, Clairets, Cremants and even a spirit, the Fine de Bordeaux, all add to the variety.

Leave Bordeaux on the cycling path which will lead you to the fortified village of Creon. Then continue through the vineyards of Cadillac and the surrounding wall of the village.
You stay at Chateau de la Tour*** (Breakfast included)

Day 3: Cadillac - St Emilion (50km/31.1mi)

Ride through the 'Entre-deux Mers' vineyards, between the Garonne and the Dordogne River. Visit Rauzan, overlooked by its dignified medieval chateau, before reaching the prestigious village of Saint-Emilion, with its rich historical testimonies.

Legend tells that the town bears the name of a Breton monk that performed miracles while living an exemplary life. In order to retire from social life, he settled in a natural grotto in 750, which can still be visited nowadays in the heart of the town. Meet the winemakers and taste exceptional wines and vintages.
You stay at Auberge de la Commanderie*** (Breakfast included)

Day 4: St Emilion Blaye (64km/39.8mi)

A ride along Bordeaux and Cotes de Blaye vineyards. Explore the 17th century citadel, in Blaye, overlooking the Gironde River. The Blaye - Cote de Bordeaux appellation offers white and reds wines. Red wines aromas are strong and fruity for a young wine, with musk and spice notes developing with age.

The dry whites are intense and powerful, with notes of boxwood and citrus (lemon, grapefruit).
You stay at Hotel La Citadelle*** (Breakfast included)

Day 5: Blaye - Bordeaux (61km/37.9mi)

Take a deep breath of iodined air. Start this ride by crossing the Gironde river by boat to reach Lamarque and its famous Médoc vineyards and chateaux wine cellars. Over on the other side, you can discover the jewel in the crown of the Verrou Vauban (the Vauban defensive system): Fort Médoc. Next, it's time to explore the Bordeaux Wine Route in Médoc as you pass through the world-renowned Margaux area. The route continues along small roads which pass through the Médoc's vineyards, small hedged fields and moorland as far as Bordeaux.
You stay at Hotel Novotel St Jean**** (Breakfast included)

Day 6: Leave Bordeaux