Arrive in Bordeaux at the time of your choice. This first evening of your trip is the opportunity to discover the city on foot and to start experiencing the local cuisine and get a head start on sampling the region’s finest wines.

Start from your hotel, strategically located in the centre of Bordeaux. Bordeaux's cycling infrastructure has improved considerably. It is now considered one of the most cycle-friendly cities in France. You'll start by following the Garonne River before passing through the northern suburbs of Bordeaux. Soon you'll be cycling through some of the world's most famous vineyards - and on two wheels you'll experience their beauty in a way you can't by car. Your destination is Pauillac, situated on the estuary of the Garonne.

GPS or not, you won't get lost! Keeping the estuary on your right, you'll pass through some of the prestigious vineyards of the Haut Medoc before following the Atlantic coast to Verdon-sur-Mer. The bliss doesn't stop there!  You'll board the ferry for a 30-minute crossing across the estuary to Royan where you will overnight.

You'll follow a very scenic route through villages, beaches and panoramic views. The beauty of cycling is that you can stop whenever you like - no parking problems, no traffic to worry about. The village of Talmont-sur-Gironde is well worth a stop. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, it is also a great place for a late lunch in one of the village's fish restaurants. Your destination is Blaye, famous for its UNESCO-listed citadel.

You'll first follow the Estuary before heading inland towards Libourne. Shortly after, you're bound to see some signs for some of the world's most famous vineyards: Lalande de Pomerol and Pomerol. Visits (and tastings!) can be done in some estates. From there, Saint-Émilion is just a few pedal strokes away. You'll overnight in this authentic village—modest in size but grand in reputation—where foodies and wine enthusiasts will enjoy a memorable evening.

Note that it is possible to arrange an extra night in Saint-Emilion with an extra loop that will take riders to Castillon-la-Bataille and along the Dordogne river" 

Most of today's route is in the Entre-deux-Mers, which literally means 'between two seas'. There are no seas, but there are rivers! You'll ride from the Dordogne to the Gironde through lesser known vineyards on very quiet roads - perfect for cycling! - and through beautiful villages such as Rauzan and its medieval castle or, a little further on, Sauveterre-de-Guyenne and Saint-Macaire. As you cross the Gironde, you'll know your destination is in sight, or at least a few pedals away.

You're not going straight to Bordeaux! The route first takes you on a semi-circular route to the famous and imposing Château Yquem, the most famous estate in Sauternes. Continue through the vineyards of Graves and Pessac-Leognan. Cycling through these prestigious estates gives you a unique perspective that you can't get any other way. Say goodbye to the vineyards. A short section through the suburbs and you'll soon be in Bordeaux.

After breakfast, depart from Bordeaux at a time of your choosing.