This Seine à Vélo stage takes you meandering through the typical Norman scenery of the Brotonne Forest and Vernier Marsh. First, cross the Seine by ferry at Jumièges. Then the route leads you along the river’s south bank, offering the finest views over the Seine. Arriving at Aizier, La Route des Chaumières (or Thatched Cottages Route) takes you to the edge of the Marais-Vernier, a precious natural site, its unique ecosystem extending across 4,500 hectares. You cross undulating landscapes providing a mix of natural riches, traditional Norman architecture and some startling encounters, in the form of storks and Camargue white horses. Along the way, make time to stop at the Maison du Parc Naturel des Boucles de la Seine Normande, a visitor centre that explains all about these parts and the flora and fauna here.
The route
On this stage, you cycle along roads with little traffic, and with no particular difficulties. Do take care though at the start of the stage, along the D143 road, the only stretch where traffic is generally much busier. The road between Aizier and Saint Opportune la Mare is much calmer, while the road through the Marais-Vernier is calmer still. There are some slopes to tackle around Vieux Port (in the direction of Paris to the sea, 2km at 5.5%) and at the level of Saint Opportune la Mare (in the direction of the sea to Paris, 1.6km at 6.5%)
Gradients and elevation
Slope breakdown
Road types
- Cycle path
- Routes reserved for cyclists and pedestrians (greenways, cycle tracks, towpaths), separated from cars for maximum safety.
- Shared road
- Quiet minor roads with little traffic (unless otherwise stated in the stage details). Shared with cars (stay alert).
- Not specified
- Data unavailable or being assessed. Please refer to the detailed stage description.
- Provisional
- Section on a road or cycle path awaiting better-quality facilities (see stage details).
Surface
- Smooth
- Asphalt, tarmac or smooth concrete. Optimal comfort.
- Rough
- Fine gravel, compacted stabilised surface or worn tarmac. Less comfortable, vibrations possible.
- Natural
- Dirt, grass, roots or stones. Under 5%: short sections with little impact. Higher percentage: route suited to mountain or gravel bikes only.
- Not specified
- Data unavailable or being assessed. Please refer to the detailed stage description.
Don’t miss
- La Maison du Parc Naturel Régional des Boucles de la Seine Normande: PNR / heritage / fauna / flora / thatched cottages / Seine / meander / birds / Park / exhibition / Route des Chaumières
- La Route des Chaumières (Thatched Cottages Route) and its villages: Aizier, Vieux-Port, Trouville-la-Haule, Saint-Opportune-la-Mare, Le Perrey, Bouquelon, Le Marais-Vernier.
- The Marais-Vernier and the views (at Saint Opportune la Mare): The Marais-Vernier is an extensive wetland located along an important migratory route for birds. It forms a veritable natural amphitheatre where you can observe the local ecosystem from a panoramic tower. This exceptional micro-region has been recognized at European level (awarded the RAMSAR label) given the wealth of its flora and fauna.
