Cicerone Press 2023
– From the Alps to the Mediterranean
Guidebook to cycling the Rhone Cycle Route, an 895km ride through France and Switzerland from the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. Divided into 20 stages, each approximately 45km long, the route can be completed by most cyclists in 10 to 14 days. Includes information on preparation, navigation, accommodation and amenities on route.
Seasons:
Except for the prologue and stage 1 in the high Swiss Alps, the route can be cycled between April and October. The Furkapass is free of snow from around mid-May to mid-October, allowing the route to be cycled in its entirety.
Centres:
A point-to-point route passing through Martigny, Montreux, Geneva, Lyon, Vienne, Valence, Montélimar and Arles.
Difficulty:
A straightforward route that is generally downhill or level (though there are a few short ascents, and the optional prologue stage involves some 900m of climbing). Mostly asphalt surfaces in good condition that are suitable for hybrid or touring cycles. Much of the route follows dedicated off-road cycle tracks, suitable for family cycling, though there are a few short sections where main roads are used.
Must See:
The Rhone glacier, Furka pass, Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon, Montreux, Lausanne, Geneva, Lyon, Vienne, Valence, Montélimar, vineyards of the Côtes du Rhone, papal city of Avignon, Roman Arles, Camargue delta.
