ViaRhôna, the bike route from lake Geneva to the Mediterranean sea

Located on the banks of Lake Geneva on the Swiss border, Saint-Gingolph is the starting point of the ViaRhôna route. Tucked between the lake and the mountains, the spa towns of Evian and Thonon-les-Bains are the high spots for strolling or just hanging out along the lake's edge.

Since the route between Saint-Gingolph and Evian is reserved for seasoned cyclists, we strongly recommend families begin their trips in Evian-les-Bains or Thonon-les-Bains

After Thonon-les-Bains, a series of bike paths and small roads bring you to the villages in the Bas-Chablais. Two must-see sites in the area are the medieval villages of Yvoire and Nernier on the banks of Lake Geneva.

The small ports and beaches are the ideal place for a foray or swim. Because the ViaRhôna has not been completed on the French side, we recommend taking the marked route in Switzerland to Geneva.  

This cross-border stage on the ViaRhôna, between Switzerland and France, begins on the lake in the beautiful city of Geneva. Geneva is a mix of present and past with a genuine feel and a rich, international focus.

The ViaRhôna takes you on small roads and greenways through the local, verdant vineyards to the foot of the Alps

Located between steep cliffs and deep valleys, this part of the ViaRhôna offers beautiful viewpoints of the Rhône and its surroundings. You’ll take the Défilé de l'Écluse before arriving in Seyssel.

Seyssel has been an active riverport for ages. Today, the small city is a lively centre for cultural activities and recreation on the water. This stage involves road travel with high traffic volumes at times, so only experienced cyclists should attempt it.

This leg of the ViaRhôna travels along the two banks of the Rhône. Waterfalls and lakes dot this temporary bike route, nestled between summits and plateaus.

Further along, you'll come across charming small cities in the Bugey Hills known for their food and wine: Belley, Culoz, and Chanaz. Roads and greenways alternate during this stage.

This leg of the ViaRhôna crosses the Bugey Hills and includes the majestic Rhône, the Grand Colombier peak, and the Marais de Lavours National Nature Reserve. Further south, the plains, mountains, and vineyards in the Lhuis and Izieu areas offer a variety of landscapes bathed in the light all nature lovers adore.

This stage has greenways and accessible routes, except for the narrow and heavily travelled Tunnel de la Balme.