Travel this route of civilizations with over 2,000 years of history, between the Mediterranean and Europe. Landscapes, towns and villages, vineyards and gastronomy will follow the rhythm of the territories crossed. Pending the completion of the ViaRhôna, which will take several years, a provisional itinerary is now available for more experienced cyclists. For a gentler approach, prefer the stages that are already open and accessible to all.
ViaRhôna is 87% developed, with completion scheduled for 2020.
ViaRhôna
ViaRhôna's declared ambition is to take you from the shores of Lake Geneva to the beaches of the Mediterranean by bike, following the Rhône River.
ViaRhôna Saint-Gingolph
About
Signs
Depending on the area you cross, you'll find different types of signposting with the ViaRhôna logo and EuroVelo 17 identifier. Please note that signage is not yet present on the entire route.
Difficult passages
Please note that from Saint-Gingolph to Evian, the route is reserved for experienced cyclists. We strongly recommend that families start the itinerary in Evian-les-Bains or Thonon-les-Bains. Caution between Geneva and Seyssel: this section of the ViaRhôna is reserved for experienced and determined cyclists. Its route, topography and motorized traffic make it inadvisable for families and leisure cyclists. Between Lyon and Givors, a provisional route is in place (with signposting), but this may prove complicated for families and the uninitiated. Train (TER) strongly recommended between Lyon and Givors.
Topoguides references
The ViaRhôna from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean - Chamina Discover the 780 km ViaRhôna itinerary along the Rhône, from Lake Geneva to the Camargue and Sète. 36 fully-marked stages to discover by bike, either as a touring route or as a series of rides. Publisher: Chamina Author: Olivier Scagnetti Pages : 111 Cartography: 1:100,000 Price: €15 -------------- ViaRhôna from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean - Ouest France From Geneva to the Mediterranean, discover the 15 best stages of the Véloroute du Rhône, the tourist gems, towns, detours and museums to discover along the great sunshine cycle route. Publisher: Ouest France Author : Michel Bonduelle Pages: 142 Cartography: 1:100,000 Price: €14.90 -------------- ViaRhôna from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean - Le Routard / Hachette One of the most beautiful cycling challenges is to link Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea, the heights of the Alps to the marshes of the Camargue, following the course of the Rhône: this is the ViaRhôna route. Publisher: Hachette Authors: Philippe GLOAGUEN and Philippe COUPY Pages: 200 Cartography: 1:100,000 Price: €14.90
Further informations
Hard coating (tar, cement, flooring)
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Nearly 130 Accueil Vélo accommodations (campsites, hotels, gîtes, chambres d'hôtes) are located within 5 km of the itinerary, guaranteeing you quality services such as a closed garage for your bike. We strongly recommend that you book your accommodation in advance, especially in tourist areas.
Prices
Free access.
Reception
It is possible to travel with a pet transported in a luggage unit. But while it's tempting to consider having your dog run alongside your bike, this won't be possible everywhere: it will often have to be kept on a leash, and must be carried on sections of the route shared with motorized traffic. Dogs may not be allowed on certain departmental cycle paths or greenways. In France, by law, dogs must be kept on a leash on public roads and in public places, on pain of a 1st class fine (up to €38; category 3 dogs), or a 2nd class fine (up to €150; category 1 - attack dogs - and category 2 - defense or guard dogs - which must be muzzled). Not all accommodations accept pets. If they do, a supplement and proof of vaccination may be required. Dogs are not allowed in food stores.
Period of practice
All year round.
Subject to favorable weather.
Services
- Pets welcome
Contacts
Access
Start of the route: at the intersection of Rue du Lac and Rue du Port, near the Saint-Gingolph ferry terminal.
