Cycling Normandy’s Flax Trail with a dog

Did you know that Normandy was one of the world’s leading producers of flax, also called linseed? To combine the joys of a cycling trip and the discovery of flax fields, a cycling trail “la Véloroute du Lin” was created in 2018, stretching from Hautot-sur-Mer near Dieppe to Fécamp. I decided to embark on this cycling itinerary through the heart of the Pays de Caux with my dog Roxy, a golden retriever and excellent trail companion! Here’s the story of our two-wheeled adventure, riding hand in paw, through Normandy’s large fields of flax plants and stunning landscapes.

DAY 1: FROM HAUTOT-SUR-MER TO SAINT-PIERRE-LE-VIGER

Our journey began in Hautot-sur-Mer, a small town on the outskirts of Dieppe and the starting-point of the Véloroute du Lin. Before we hit the road, we enjoyed a short walk on the waterfront and marveled at the sight of the dramatic white chalk cliffs that inspired the paintings of impressionist master Claude Monet. It was a great way for my furry pal to burn off that boundless energy before focusing on the trail. Off we went towards Offranville for the first section of the cycling route! After a two-hour ride, we took a short break at the « Parc du Colombier” in Offranville, a lovely picnic spot to refuel on energy. As we next  headed toward Saint-Pierre-le-Vigier, we encountered the first flax fields on our itinerary, for which this part of Normandy is renowned! The best time to admire the flax is in June as the landscape blossoms in a burst of striking that only lasts 15 to 25 days before it is harvested. Nevertheless, at this time of the year, the sight of endless green flax fields inscribing the changing movement of the wind was breathtaking! After a 30 km ride, it was time to settle for the night at la Linerie, an old farmhouse transformed into a gite- dog-friendly of course.  A good rest for both of us was needed!

DAY 2: FROM SAINT-PIERRE-LE-VIGER TO CANY-BARVILLE

After a good night’s sleep, we were back on track the next morning. Direction the town of Cany-Barville!  This section of the cycling route followed a shared road with vehicles, yet very safe small country lanes with very little traffic and stunning views to snap along the way. This little hilly section involves riding uphill and downhill. We reached Cany-Barville at the end of the afternoon and enjoyed a well-deserved break on the banks of the Durdent river. Our next stop was then village of Then where we checked in a cute wooden bungalow for the night at the campsite  “les Près de la Mer” in Vittefleur. Exhausted, it didn’t take long for us to fall asleep after a comforting, delicious meal.

DAY 3: FROM CANY-BARVILLE TO FÉCAMP

We set off on this third and last day of adventure with an uphill section over a few kilometers. A perfect way to wake up and get started! We soon completed 50 km of the itinerary, across the beautiful verdant flax fields until the picturesque village of Valmont appeared in the horizon, dominated by a 12^th century castle. The final stage of the cycle route was getting closer and closer and we soon reached the maritime town of Fécamp. We arrived at noon and visited the tourist office for local information and insider tips on where to eat and what to see here. We celebrated our team challenge with a scrumptious and guilt-free lunch at the Double 6 restaurant located in the city centre. Mussels and French fries on the menu for me and croquettes for Roxy of course ! Surrounded by the tallest cliffs in Normandy, Fécamp was such a dramatic place to end this exciting 3- days cycling adventure with my four-legged buddy !  An exhilarating experience that delighted all our senses!