After a day of walking or cycling, where you stay shapes your experience of each stop. Storage for your equipment, dinner on site or a location close to the trail often matter more than a long list of facilities. Here are four places to stay along our walking and cycling routes in Europe, from a village hotel to a mountain inn.
This selection helps explain what we look for when planning a trip. Availability and the accommodation planned may vary depending on your dates: the trip description and departure information remain your reference when booking.
Le Vernay in Autrans, for walking in the Vercors
Le Vernay is a family-run hotel and restaurant in Autrans, at an altitude of 1 050 m. Its ski and bike storage makes it easy to head out for the day. The restaurant serves seasonal food made with local produce, so there is no need to drive again in the evening.
We like this hotel as a base for exploring the Vercors, both in winter and in the warmer months. It is a useful example of the accommodation available around Autrans and Méaudre. Up-to-date details of its services are available on the Le Vernay website.
Villa Argentina in Pocol, facing the Dolomites
Villa Argentina is in Pocol, around 5 km from Cortina d’Ampezzo. Its location provides access to routes in the Dolomites while keeping you away from the centre of Cortina. Accommodation on a given trip may differ; check the current trip details before booking.
On a centre-based walking trip, staying in the same place for several nights gives you more flexibility each day. Compare centre-based itineraries around Cortina for details of the walks. The hotel presents its rooms and services on the Villa Argentina website.
Le Relais d’Arpette, a stop on the Tour du Mont-Blanc
Le Relais d’Arpette is a mountain inn at an altitude of 1 630 m, above Champex in Switzerland. It welcomes walkers on the Tour du Mont-Blanc and lies below the Fenêtre d’Arpette alternative route. This alternative remains demanding and depends on conditions: the standard route is still an option to consider in light of the day’s information.
On a point-to-point trip, the appeal of this inn lies in its location and the experience of staying there along the way. It is one of the inns hikers may encounter along the Tour du Mont-Blanc. Access details and opening information are available on the Relais d’Arpette website.
Hôtel de Brienne in Toulouse, before a point-to-point cycling trip
Hôtel de Brienne is near the canal of the same name, which connects to the Garonne and the Canal du Midi. Its Accueil Vélo certification and city location make it a practical stop before setting off on a point-to-point trip. You can pack your panniers, check your bike and reach the start of the route without adding a long connecting ride.
This hotel is well suited to a trip such as the Canal du Midi from Toulouse to Sète. The Hôtel de Brienne website lists its current services and opening hours.
What to look for when choosing a hotel on a walking or cycling trip
We first check its location in relation to the route. A lovely hotel far from the route may require a transfer and make the day less flexible. Next come dinner options, equipment storage and breakfast times. In the mountains, access and seasonal opening also matter.
The level of comfort varies from one trip to another. An inn with shared accommodation may suit a point-to-point journey, while several nights in a hotel work better for centre-based walks. If you are unsure which option to choose, compare our walking trips and our cycling trips, or ask the team for advice, explaining the pace you are looking for.
Article written by
Solène Roux
Editorial lead
Passionate about travel and a keen advocate of slow travel, I am fortunate to turn my love of adventure into engaging stories. As editorial lead at GrandAngle.Travel, an agency specialising in trekking and cycling…
