Paris to Geneva Cycle Ride - itinerary
Linking two of the Europe's most classical cities this cycle ride is sure to inspire you.
Day 1
London to Paris via Eurostar
After loading our bikes on to a support vehicle we take a morning Eurostar from St Pancras to Paris.The afternoon is then yours to explore Paris before meeting in our hotel for an evening meal and detailed trip briefing.
Day 2
Paris - Sens - 125km
An early morning start sets us in good stead for our first day of pedalling.We head out from Paris more or less following the course of the River Seine. Before you know it we will have left the hustle and bustle of the city behind us and will find ourselves meandering through French farmland.The regions we travel through are very good for wine growing as a result of the rolling chalk hills and are fantastically historic with many medieval and roman villages.Thankfully there are no tough or lengthy climbs today and you will soon set your sights on the gothic cathedral in the town of Sens which is our stop for the evening.
Day 3
Sens - Semur-en-Auxois - 125km
Another early start this morning with a lengthy day in front of us but what a feeling to see those miles clocking up! This morning is undulating and sees us going through wild forest areas as well as open fields of various crops.The vineyards that we will see on the southern slopes belong to Pinot Noir.There are no main towns to deal with for the bulk of the day and we will be primarily cycling along quiet agricultural lanes. Crossing a lovely stone bridge and a little climb up hill will mark our entry for the evening's rest stop Semur-en-Auxois.
Day 4
Semur-en-Auxois - Lons-le-Saunier - 150km
This morning we set off in a southerly direction just missing Dijon.We take our route through the wine region of Burgundy and pass through Beaune and cross over the River Saone. Spending most of the day passing through fields we can enjoy a mostly flat day in the saddle although that is not to say that there are no sharp hills - just to keep those legs on the ball for tomorrows challenge! Tonight is spent in Lons-Le-Saunier a simply stunning Roman spa town.
Day 5
Lons-Le-Saunier - Geneva - 110km
Less miles today but don't let that fool you - today is a toughie as we head into the Jura Mountains and into Switzerland. As we leave the hotel we start climbing almost straight away but what a view we are rewarded with across the valley. A relaxed pace is set to enjoy the fantastic landscape and rest the legs on those long awaited down hills which set us in good stead as we make our way higher into the mountains.The route uphill takes in almost 12km of famous hairpin bends as seen on the Tour de France, rightly so we take a breather at the highest point Col de la Faucille (1232m) for a well deserved rest and pat on the back. Fingers crossed for a clear day and we should be able to set our sights on Mont Blanc.What goes up must come down and from here we enjoy a great descent down to the international border where we cruise to the finish point in Geneva.Tonight we will have our well earned celebration meal.
Day 6
Geneva - London
Today you will have free time to take in the sights of Geneva before we head back to London on the train (lunch and dinner not included).
Due to the nature of the challenge, this complex itinerary is subject to change