bretagne-cycling-from-rennes-to-mont-saint-michel

Self-guided

Cycling

lvl. 2
New
Mon Roadbook App
Hotel
Multi-day hike
Réf : E3VF
7 days from 1390 € Book / Enquire

Our trip

  • A visit to the legendary Mont-Saint-Michel and its unique bay.

  • Exploring the Breton coastline with its beaches and the towns of Saint-Malo and Dinard

  • A privileged route, mainly along greenways.

  • Discovering the Breton countryside and the medieval towns of Dinan and Dol-de-Bretagne.

  • A touring itinerary with an easy return to Rennes by train or private shuttle.

"Mon Roadbook" app is available for this trip.
More info >>

From Rennes, the journey opens onto a quiet inland Brittany, paced by locks, towpaths, and the soothing rhythm of waterways. Before long, Dinan comes into view - a beautifully preserved medieval town of ancient ramparts, lively lanes, and half-timbered houses. Then the route drifts toward sea air and open horizons: Dinard unfolds its Belle Époque villas and refined seaside charm, while Saint-Malo, the old corsair stronghold, rises behind mighty walls facing the ocean. And finally, the bay takes over. Marshes and polders stretch to the edge of the sky, Mont-Dol stands watch over the landscape, and Dol-de-Bretagne reveals the grandeur of its cathedral. In the shifting light of the salt meadows, Mont Saint-Michel appears at last, almost like a mirage made real. Arriving by bike only heightens the magic - steep cobbled lanes, golden stone, and a thousand-year-old abbey suspended above one of the world's most breathtaking bays.

Your travel option

Hotel april to october

Hotel april to october

Bike rental From 1390 €* Book / Enquire Devis

* Minimum price for the current season, subject to availability based on 4 participants. (Price incl. VAT)

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Itinerary

Level 2: 4 to 6 hours of riding per day (30 to 50 kilometers) on hilly roads or paths; a maximum of 500 meters of vertical gain. Accessible to anyone who exercises on a regular basis.

Cycling : another way to enjoy the trails and back roads. For beginners and experts, a bike allows you to explore a wide variety of places and landscapes in one trip and at your own pace. Our selection of self-guided bike tours also offers the possibility of using an electric bike to make them easier and more accessible to as many people as possible.
Mon Roadbook app: designed for the self-guided trips, "Mon Roadbook" travel assistant guides you throughout your journey via a mobile application to download on your smartphone.
Duration : 7 days
Luggage transfers : With luggage transfer
Lodging : Hotel
Guiding : Self-guided
Group : Minimum 2 persons
Season : april to october

Day by day

Day 1

Welcome in Rennes, capital of Brittany

Lodging : hotel. Meals: depending on the options.
Welcome to Rennes, the capital of Brittany! Relaxed yet full of energy, Rennes balances calm and excitement, revealing itself as a city perfect for strolling, friendly encounters, or unexpected discoveries. Along its cobbled streets, you'll be charmed by lively terraces, Art Deco façades, lovely little restaurants, a market, or a stylish boutique. Check into your city-centre hotel at the end of the day.
Day 2

Rennes to Hédé-Bazouges

Distance : 45 km (28 mi) - Ascent : 200 m (665 ft). Descent : 150 m (490 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast, dinner. Meals not included : lunch.
Settled on your bike, you leave the urban bustle behind and reach the peaceful banks of the Ille-et-Rance Canal. This waterway, once vital for trade, is now a haven of tranquillity for walkers and cyclists, while colourful barges glide slowly along the canal. The towpath, lined with centuries-old trees, offers welcome shade and full immersion in nature as it passes through charming villages with stone houses and historic churches, guardians of local heritage. Local wildlife reveals itself quietly: herons, ducks, dragonflies, and other inhabitants of the riverbanks. Hédé-Bazouges, the destination for this first stage, appears in the distance with its impressive series of locks. This unique site showcases human ingenuity and the importance of this waterway. Check into your hotel near the canal.
Day 3

Hédé-Bazouges to Dinan

Distance : 38 km (24 mi) - Ascent : 250 m (820 ft). Descent : 250 m (820 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
This morning, you gradually move away from the canal and head into the Rance Valley, where the river winds its way through wooded hills. The landscapes are gently rolling, offering varied viewpoints that alternate between green meadows, lush forests, and small characterful villages. You continue to enjoy a completely safe greenway, allowing you to cycle in total peace of mind.
Dinan, a magnificent medieval town, reveals itself with its imposing ramparts and half-timbered houses. You can happily get lost in its cobbled streets, transported to another era, imagining the life of knights and merchants. Below the town, Dinan's port offers a charming scene, with its moored boats and colourful houses. Enjoy the evening strolling through this beautiful town, home to many welcoming restaurants.
Day 4

Dinan to Saint Malo (or Dinard)

Distance : 29 km (18 mi) - Ascent : 165 m (540 ft). Descent : 235 m (770 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
This fourth day takes you from the inland territories toward the coast, a gradual transition between two very different worlds. As you follow the valley back toward the sea, the landscapes open up and the scent of the ocean becomes noticeable. In the distance, you begin to glimpse the Emerald Coast, its rugged shoreline, and its fine sandy beaches. Arriving in Dinard is a delight: its Belle Époque villas bear witness to a splendid and elegant past. A short boat crossing then brings you to Saint-Malo, the corsair city, proud of its maritime heritage and its impressive ramparts. As you wander through the narrow streets of the walled town, you can feel the spirit of sailors and adventurers. The sea breeze, the cries of the seagulls, the salty air... everything reminds you of the power of the sea and the tumultuous lives of seafarers. As the sun sets over the waves, it offers an unforgettable spectacle, the perfect conclusion to this beautiful day in Brittany.
Day 5

Saint Malo to Dol-de-Bretagne

Distance : 45 km (28 mi) - Ascent : 300 m (985 ft). Descent : 270 m (885 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
After a few pedal strokes along the Vélomaritime, you temporarily leave the coastline today to gain some elevation and explore the hinterland with its gently rolling landscapes. The paths are peaceful, the villages welcoming, and the encounters warm. You climb up to Mont Dol, an isolated rocky promontory overlooking the surrounding plain. Its panoramic viewpoint offers a breathtaking spectacle over the bay and the surrounding countryside. You then descend toward Dol-de-Bretagne, a former episcopal city with a rich religious and architectural heritage. The imposing Saint-Samson Cathedral stands as a reminder of the city's historical importance. It's also the perfect opportunity to wander through the streets, admire the charm of the half-timbered houses, and enjoy the town's peaceful atmosphere-especially pleasant in the summer months!
Day 6

Dol-de-Bretagne to the famous Mont Saint Michel

Distance : 35 km (22 mi) - Ascent : 75 m (245 ft). Descent : 90 m (295 ft)
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
The final stage carries a special emotion, as the Mont Saint-Michel draws closer with every pedal stroke. The landscapes become vast and open, offering stunning views over the bay. You ride through cultivated fields, salt marshes, and peaceful villages where time seems to stand still. Migratory birds, abundant in this region, add a touch of magic to the journey. At last, you catch sight of Mont Saint-Michel, its majestic silhouette rising from the horizon, radiating an immediate sense of magnetic attraction, spiritual power, and timeless beauty. You explore the steep alleyways lined with traditional shops as you climb toward the abbey. The viewpoint from the top is unforgettable, offering an exceptional panorama over the bay, a landscape constantly shifting with the rhythm of the tides. Check into your hotel to enjoy an evening on Mont Saint-Michel before returning to Rennes the following day.
Day 7

Bye bye Mont Saint Michel

Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.

End of our services after breakfast.

We can arrange, upon request, your transfer by private shuttle to Rennes train station. Please contact us for details.

The active times are given as an indication and may vary depending on several elements (eg. weather conditions, terrain, etc.). Transfer times may also vary depending on road and traffic conditions. If necessary (eg: weather conditions, decision of local authorities, etc.), we may also be required to adapt the program for the smooth running of your trip and in the interest of the participants.

Pricing

Prices (incl. taxes) from april to october 2026

Hotel
Price per person		Bike rental
Low seasonPeak season
2 people 1 double room1590 €1820 €
3 people 1 room with 3 beds1460 €1680 €
4 people 2 double rooms1390 €1590 €
5 people 1 double room, 1 room with 3 beds1350 €1560 €
6 people 3 double rooms1330 €1540 €
  • Low season : From 01 April 2026 to 30 June 2026, from 26 August 2026 to 31 October 2026
  • Peak season : From 01 July 2026 to 25 August 2026

Pricing

The price includes / does not include

The price includes:

  • Accommodations as described.
  • Breakfast for days 2 through 7.
  • Diner at the hotel in Hedé-Bazouges (day 2).
  • Transportation of your bags every night.
  • According to the chosen option: rental of a trekking bike; electric trekking bike; otherwise, you use your own bike.
  • The roadbook (as well as a map and reservation vouchers) for a 2-to-4-person group.
  • Access to the new mobile phone application (including GPS guidance).
  • 24/7 Emergency telephone support from our office

The price does not include:

  • Transportation to the meeting point at the start of the trip and from the point where the trip officially ends.
  • Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
  • Lunches and dinners (exept on day 2 in Hédé-Bazouges).
  • The ferry crossing from Dinard to Saint Malo (around 10€/pax with a bike).
  • For reservations made less than 15 days before the start, all additional fees for priority processing.
  • Anything that is not specified in the "included in the price" list.

Other expenses:

  • Tickets to any visit, monument, museums or activities during the tour,
  • Drinks and tips.

Currencies

France is part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.
Exchange rate

 

During your trip

Travel documents

You will receive the following documents for this trip:

  • The Mont Blanc Experience roadbook with a step-by-step description of each day.
  • GPX tracks for each day
  • The list of accommodations for your tour and the contact details of the service provider for luggage transfers.
  • Useful contacts with telephone numbers in case of emergency.

Transfers

Only one transfer is required during your stay (day 4 or 5, depending on where you'll stay). On the other days, you'll travel exclusively by bike.
  • Day 4 (or 5): ferry crossing from Dinard to Saint-Malo (costs around €10). 

Lodging

Special attention is given to the selection of accommodations, with priority placed on location, welcome, and the quality of services. Mainly accommodated in 3-star hotels, you will enjoy high-quality comfort.

Please note:

  • Accommodation availability is subject to seasonality. In some cases, we may be able to offer you alternative solutions. Depending on availability, we may also be able to suggest accommodations usually offered on other tours, possibly of a different standard.
  • If you're traveling with friends or family but prefer your own room, single rooms are subject to availability and a supplementary payment.

Meals

Breakfasts are included. Generally consisting of pastries (pain au chocolat or croissant), fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt and cereals. Some accommodations also offer savory dishes with cheese or ham and eggs. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know when you book.

We have chosen not to include lunches and dinners (except on day 2 in Hédé-Bazouges) to give you more flexibility and freedom during the day :

  • For dinners: some of our accommodations have their own restaurant. If not, there are always restaurants nearby.
  • For lunch: you'll always pass by a village, a market or a bakery. Your roadbook will contain suggestions of places where you can buy supplies.
    You should also bear in mind that, as a general rule, shops in small villages are closed on Sundays and Mondays. That's why we suggest you carry a small snack with you at all times.

There are drinking water points along the route where you can fill your water bottles during the day. Be sure to think ahead when it comes to water, and follow the sanitary instructions given.

Luggage transfer

You will carry only what you need for the day. Your bags will be transferred between your accommodations as per your itinerary. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 23kg maximum per person and a maximum size of 158 cm (total height + width + length).

Mont Blanc Experience reserves the right to charge an additional fee if your luggage exceeds the specified size or weight limits.

Trails

The routes have been designed by our team. They take in a mix of cycle paths, quiet country roads and a few short segments on busier roads, usually with a narrow cycle lane or shoulder. Your regularly updated travel documents (roadbook and maps or map extracts) ensure that you can complete the program with complete peace of mind.

We also provide you with GPX tracks via our smartphone navigation application. Simply download the routes to your phone for offline use, and you're ready to go.

The "Mon Roadbook" app allows you to centralize all the necessary information for your trip:

  • The identification of service providers operating during your stay
  • GPS guidance on a map background
  • Photos of crossings
  • The various points of interest on the hike: natural or heritage.

This application, included for this trip, must be downloaded before your departure and works offline (without network).
To learn more, feel free to read our article: Mon Roadbook, your digital travel guide.

Itineraries

Our elevation gains are calculated based on altitude differences provided on maps, not by GPS, which, for technical reasons (GPS altitude inaccuracies + statistical dispersion), often give overestimated elevation gains, sometimes by up to 20%.

Bikes

According to the chosen option:
  • With your own bike: bike rental is not included in our services; you use your own bike.
  • Bike provided: you can reserve a VTC bike. We mainly use Vélodeville touring bikes (Germany), in two versions: "Sport"(a slightly more forward-leaning position for a more dynamic ride) and "Touring" (a more upright position, prioritising comfort over long distances).
    All bikes feature all-terrain puncture-resistant tyres and 29" wheels, providing both good efficiency and excellent stability on roads and cycle paths.
  • You can also reserve a trekking e-bike, usually a unisex Vélodeville model, equipped with a 500Wh Bosch battery and a 9- or 10-speed drivetrain.
    E-bikes are equipped with a small motor to help with pedaling, allowing the rider to use less effort than with a regular "human-powered" bike to cover the same distance. Every evening, plug your bike into a wall or designated electric socket at your accommodations to recharge your bike. The next day you will enjoy a full battery for your ride.

Your bike will be delivered to you on day two in the morning. A security deposit is required. Remember to provide us with your height when filling out the reservation form. Then, drop off your bike at your hotel on the last day of your tour.

NB:

  • In France, wearing a helmet is mandatory for cyclists under 12 years old.
  • The bike will be equipped with 2 waterproof rear pannier (20L), 1 waterproof handlebar bag (4-6 L) and a lock (for two bikes).
    A repair kit (pump, spare inner tube, light tools, puncture repair kit) is also provided.
  • Of course, if these models are not available, we will ensure to offer you a similar model.

Required before leaving

Formalities

American, Canadian, Australian and British Travellers

Visa Requirements

  • No visa is required for American, Canadian, British or Australian citizens for stays of up to 90 days within the Schengen Area (France, Italy and Switzerland included).

Passport Requirements
Travellers must hold a passport that:

  • is valid upon entry, and
  • remains valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen Area.

It is strongly recommended to ensure a minimum of 6 months' validity prior to expiration to avoid potential boarding refusals by airlines.

Asian Travellers - Visa-Exempt Countries

The following nationalities may enter the Schengen Area for tourist stays of up to 90 days without a visa :
Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong (HKSAR passport).

Entry conditions for these travellers are identical to those applicable to American or British nationals:

  • no visa required,
  • passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the planned departure date.

Asian Travellers - Visa-Required Countries

Travellers holding passports from China, India, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Pakistan, and other South and Southeast Asian countries must obtain a Schengen short-stay visa prior to travel, including for stays of less than 30 days.

  • Visa applications must be submitted to the relevant French, Swiss or Italian consular authorities in the traveller's country of residence. Processing times may vary.
  • Passports must be in good, undamaged condition (no tears, stains, staples, clips, or other alterations).
Important Notice:
The information above is provided for guidance only and may change according to decisions made by the French, Italian or Swiss authorities.
Please consult official sources before travelling. 

Health

Routine Vaccinations:
Travellers should ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date, according to national guidelines :

  • Tetanus - diphtheria - pertussis (Tdap)
  • Measles - mumps - rubella (MMR)
  • Polio
  • Seasonal influenza
  • COVID-19

These vaccinations are generally recommended for all adults.

Altitude and Physical Effort
Our tours involves sustained daily effort and includes sections at moderate altitude. Travellers are advised to :

  • ensure they are in adequate physical condition,
  • consult a healthcare professional in case of medical conditions potentially affected by altitude or exertion,
  • bring all personal medication required for the entire duration of the trip.

Dentist and general physician:
We recommend a checkup with both before leaving on your trip.  

Food and Water Safety
In these area, tap water is safe to drink and hygiene standards are high.
Nonetheless:

  • wash hands regularly,
  • use a clean reusable water bottle,
  • avoid drinking untreated natural water sources without proper filtration or purification.

Getting ready

Physical fitness level 2

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking at least twice per week (12km to 15km).

Your first aid kit

It is recommended that you bring a small personal medical kit including your preferred painkillers, throat lozenges, plasters, strapping tape for blisters, etc. If you are taking regular medication you MUST bring those medicines with you PLUS an extra supply in case one pack is lost. If you have any allergies and/or take any medications, you MUST advise us when booking your trek! 

For the medication and pain relievers listed below, we recommend that you check with your doctor beforehand, adding what you need based on personal requirements and the specificity of your trip.

  • An analgesic.
  • An anti-inflammatory (pills or gels).
  • An anti-diarrheal tablets,
  • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips, non-stick bandages, and an elastic bandage.
  • An antiseptic.
  • Sunscreen and a burn cream.
  • Eye drops.
  • Other : survival blanket, scissors, 2 or 3 safety pins, a tick remover, a pair of latex gloves, earplugs.
  • Any personal medication.

Safety

The Mont Blanc Experience promise

No region in the world is 100% safe and without danger.

Mont Blanc Experience keeps you informed and is fully transparent when it comes to the potential risks. We gather security risk information from multiple sources: in-house research, monitoring specialized websites, meetings with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "safety and security" trips in the field, constant contact with our regional specialists, local teams on the ground, and France's travel agency federation.

Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that we cannot make any decisions for you.

If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to:

— Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips).
— Modify the itinerary for our tours.
— Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high.

Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.