At the end of August, we made the most of a few days in Gironde to cycle as a family along part of the Vélodyssée, between Lacanau and Arcachon Bay. Two hybrid bikes, a trailer and our son’s little bike: everyone had their place on this day out. This account shares our route, our stops and what helped us adapt the ride to a young child.
A day on the cycle paths
We start on a section of the Vélodyssée. That day, we found the signs easy to follow and the surface comfortable for towing the trailer. I head towards the ocean with the two children. I was expecting flat terrain, but one small climb follows another: something to bear in mind when towing a trailer.
Cycling between Maubuisson and Lacanau © Quentin Vanaker
Once we reach the coast, we decide to leave La Vélodyssée and head to Lacanau along a “narrow path” that is not particularly easy with a trailer. This stretch really made our thighs work: a bike gets through without any trouble, but one wheel of the trailer is in the sand!
Narrow cycle path between Maubuisson and Lacanau © Quentin Vanaker
It was beautiful nonetheless! Five kilometres before reaching Lacanau, we join an alternative route of La Vélodyssée. My son finally decides to get out of the trailer and ride his bike.
Family cycling on the Vélodyssée © Quentin Vanaker
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Although his bike has stabilisers, the smooth path lets him ride confidently and at a good pace. He will cycle 4km before we reach Lacanau for lunch. The whole family has thoroughly earned a meal at a little restaurant, a nap on the beach and a swim…
Family meal at a restaurant in Lacanau © Quentin Vanaker
Time flies, and we are already setting off on the return journey.
The children climb back into the trailer as we leave Lacanau. We leave the Vélodyssée route and spend a little time finding our way. Navigating this dense network turns out to be harder than expected. We rejoin the La Vélodyssée cycle path and follow it back towards Maubuisson.
Cycling with a trailer towards Maubuisson © Quentin Vanaker
Arrival at Arcachon Bay
The next day, we set off to explore Arcachon Bay. Along the way is Andernos-les-Bains, where “Grand Angle” cyclists stop for the night! It is a pleasant little town with pedestrian streets, shops and lovely café terraces. At low tide, the water retreats far from the shore and some boats rest on the seabed. The oyster harbour then seems much quieter.
Boats at low tide in Andernos-les-Bains © Quentin Vanaker
As the tide starts to come in, the whole place springs to life. Families head to the beach, and boats begin moving through the channels before venturing a little further afield.
Andernos-les-Bains © Quentin Vanaker
The harbour comes alive, and the oyster huts offer oyster tastings. During our visit, we had dinner at “Chez Huguette”, on our host’s recommendation. We shared fish and seafood as we watched the sun set. Places to eat and their opening hours can change, so it is best to check them before you arrive.
Sunset in Andernos-les-Bains © Quentin Vanaker
It is already time to return to our mountains. With everyone safely buckled into the car, the whole family sets off with their heads full of memories.
Grand Angle invites you to explore the landscapes of Aquitaine at your own pace, from the vineyards to the ocean, or through the vast forests of the Landes: along the Vélodyssée, from the Gironde estuary to Biarritz.
And for even more inspiration, find all our cycling holidays in south-west France and Aquitaine here.
Text & photo credits: © Quentin Vanaker
Article written by
Quentin Vanaker
Travel experts in France and Switzerland
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