Emerald Coast by bike: an unforgettable Breton getaway

From Erquy to Matignon – The Great Departure Facing the Cliffs 🏖️

This first stage of 29 km takes you along the coast via quiet roads. Erquy welcomes you with its fishing port and the Cap d'Erquy: 70 meters of pink sandstone cliffs plunging into turquoise water. The route alternates between coastal sections and countryside, passing through Pléneuf-Val-André and its Belle Époque villas. The two-kilometer beach invites you to take a break before heading to Matignon via paths lined with hydrangeas. 🌺

Sights Not to Miss

The Cap d'Erquy is a classified natural site with trails among heather and gorse. In Pléneuf-Val-André, admire the seaside architecture from the 1900s along the promenade. For those who wish to make their journey easier, consider renting a suitable electric bike before your departure. ✨

Recommended Accommodations

In Matignon, you will find welcoming guest rooms with local breakfast. The family atmosphere will recharge you for the rest of your journey. Otherwise, Plancoët, 5 km away, offers more options. 🏡

From Matignon to Pleslin-Trigavou – Towards the Rance Valley 🌳

This second stage of 25 km takes you away from the coast to dive towards the estuary of the Rance. The hilly yet accessible route follows this maritime river where sailboats navigate up to Dinan. The banks alternate between small ports and discreet coves, while the vegetation changes: maritime pines, oaks, and chestnut trees replace the moors. To extend your Breton adventure, explore our Saint-Malo - Arzal itinerary that crosses the entire region. 🚴

Sights not to be missed

The Rance dam is a technical marvel: the world's first tidal power plant (1960s). You cross it by bike with a unique view of the estuary. Just after, Dinard and its Anglo-Norman villas are worth a 5 km detour. Saint-Suliac, listed among the most beautiful villages in France, deserves a stop. 🏰

Recommended accommodations

Pleslin-Trigavou is calm and rejuvenating. The campsites near the Rance offer spots with a view, some with unusual accommodations. Head to Dinan (10 km) for more options. 🏕️

From Pleslin-Trigavou to Saint-Malo – The Highlight of the Show ⚓

27 km separate you from the corsair city. This stage follows the Rance and then joins the coast via secure bike paths. The arrival facing the ramparts is memorable. You pass through hamlets of blonde granite where hollyhocks grow against the walls. Saint-Suliac offers a perfect coffee stop before the final stretch. 🏴‍☠️

Sights Not to Miss

Saint-Malo intra-muros features 1.8 km of ramparts telling four centuries of maritime history. Climb for a 360° panorama of the bay. The Fort National (accessible at low tide) and the tomb of Chateaubriand on the islet of Grand Bé are must-sees. The beach of Sillon stretches for two kilometers. If you are coming from afar, our Paris - Saint-Malo itinerary will allow you to reach this coast from the capital. ⚡

Recommended Accommodations

Saint-Malo offers a wide choice: sea view hotels or family guesthouses. Book in advance during the high season. For an authentic experience, opt for a malouinière, these 18th-century shipowner residences. 🛏️

From Saint-Malo to Cancale – The Gourmet Finale 🦪

18 km of pure happiness for this final stage. Head towards Cancale, the capital of Breton oysters, along a coastal road with the sea as your companion. Short, beautiful, and it ends with a seafood platter facing Mont-Saint-Michel. You ride between sea and countryside: Rothéneuf and its sculpted rocks, the Val, Le Verger... At low tide, the foreshore reveals its oyster parks. Our Saint-Malo - Cancale route with all-inclusive services can simplify your organization. 🌅

Sights Not to Be Missed

Cancale is authentic despite its fame. The Pointe du Grouin (5 km north) offers an exceptional panorama of the bay of Mont-Saint-Michel. The port of La Houle is the headquarters of oyster farmers: buy your oysters directly from the producers and enjoy them with your feet in the water. Simple and perfect. 🐚

Recommended Accommodations

Cancale is full of seafood restaurants and bay-view hotels. The guesthouses in the center offer excellent value for money. Treat yourself to a good meal: you’ve earned it after 100 km! 🍽️

Ready to hop on your bike for more adventures? The Emerald Coast is just the beginning. At DolceVia, we organize tailor-made cycling trips with bike rentals, accommodation bookings, and luggage transfers. All you have to do is pedal and enjoy. So, shall we go for it? 🚲✨