Rail biking in Normandy

Normandy’s a bit of an expert when it comes to repurposing disused railway tracks, having already turned several into popular rail biking routes. Explore our region in a new way by rail biking in a group through some of its most scenic natural landscapes. Suitable for all ages, this activity is great for the whole family!

Bagnoles-de-L’Orne

Rail biking company Vélorails des Andaines offers two routes in and around the Andaines Forest in southern Normandy. The first starts at the former railway station in the spa town of Bagnoles-de-l’Orne before heading out on a 7km circuit that takes you through the atmospheric Andaines Forest and past the Priory of Saint-Ortaire. The second circuit, also 7km in length, starts further south in the town of Couterne, and runs to Méhoudin, exploring Normandy’s traditional hedgerow landscape and skirting the Mayenne river as it goes.

The Suisse Normande

Those feeling energetic might like to challenge themselves to a 13km rail biking round-trip in the hilly region of Normandy known as the Suisse Normande (Norman Switzerland). The Vélorail des Collines Normandes route begins at the former railway station at Pont-Erambourg, taking you along the Noireau valley until the Gouttes tunnel near Pont-d’Ouilly, showcasing all the charm of the Suisse Normande along the way. If you fancy learning more about the region’s railway history, head to Condé-sur-Noireau either before or after your ride, where train enthusiasts have transformed some former post carriages into a museum.

The Vire Valley

This rail biking route starts at the former Condé-sur-Vire railway station and heads along the Condé-sur-Vire to Gourfaleur railway line, out of service since 1989. After crossing a bridge and two level crossings, you enter the picturesque Vire Valley where there is no shortage of picturesque views, as well as two picnic areas along the route where you can stop off for refreshments. New to this route this year are electricity-assisted rail bikes, so everyone can enjoy the ride without working too hard!

etretat

Etretat is a popular tourist attraction for anyone wishing to see its cliffs, so famously captured on canvas by the Impressionists. But what you may not know is just outside the town, there is a rail biking route that uses part of the old railway track that once linked Etretat to Rouen! A fun round-trip for all the family and easy enough for kids to cycle, this scenic route, operated by Vélo-rails d’Etretat, starts in the nearby town of Les Loges and runs 5.2km to the outskirts of Etretat. For the return trip, hop on the tourist train (included in the price), which will take you back to the starting point! There is also a train restaurant serving tasty local cuisine.