Cycling La Vélodyssée, Léon to Capbreton
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La Vélodyssée - by Kiki on Google
Description
The Vélodyssée is the name given to the French section of the EuroVelo 1 (EV1), a.k.a. the Atlantic Coast Route, a ~8,200km route that connects the North Cape in Norway to Sagres in Portugal. The 34th section of the Vélodyssée is 33km long and links Léon (just south of the namesake lake) to Capbreton going past Moliets, Messange, Vieux Boucau and Hossegor in the process. There is hardly any climbing along that section, so it is beginner and family friendly. Anybody can join the route and leave it at any time and therefore choose an itinerary depending on fitness level and time investment.
Access & Transport
Coming in by car to the region, the northern-most access will be at Leon, exiting the A63 in Castets and the southern-most will be exit 8 of the A63 at Benesse-Marenne near Capbreton. It is possible to rent bicycles in many seaside towns only a few kms from the cycling track.
Instructions & Recommendations
Find a shop where to rent bikes if you do not have one and do not forget to take water with you, some sunblock and wear helmets. The Lac de Leon with the Courant d'Huchet and the various beaches provides plenty of exploration opportunities beyond, but close to, the cycling track.
Environmental & Social
Green activity Any amount spent there (F&B, accommodation) helps the local rural economy.
Conclusion
Riding a section of the Velodyssée, or for that matter any cycling track in the Landes area, is an eco-friendly and active way of exploring the area. Perfect for beach hoping and marrying exercise with tourism. It may give you a taste for cyclo-tourism and take on longer trips along the EV1 !
Key positive
Free access and easy to get on/off the track to explore the surrounding areas
Great outdoor family activity
Key negative
Need to rent bicycles if you do not have your own
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but younger children may need to sit at the back of their parents' bike. A little fitness will help expand the riding range.
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:4h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo