Grandcamp-Maisy / Port-en-Bessin-Huppain

Here, you cycle in the tracks of the Allies' D-Day landings of 6 June 1944. Shortly after Grandcamp-Maisy, stop at the Pointe du Hoc, the German artillery battery on this steep headland fiercely fought over, as is movingly recalled. Then this stage, still being laid out at time of writing, leads you via a provisional route behind the coast. Midway along, a link takes you to Omaha Beach, where the majority of American troops landed on D-Day, under terrible enemy fire. Finally, at Port-en-Bessin, reward yourself with a fine seafood platter at a quay-side restaurant.

The route

Soon, this stage will guide you along an exceptional greenway hugging the cliffs of the Bessin area, but if you tackle it before October 2021, you should download the GPX tracks to follow a route from Grandcamp-Maisy to Vierville-sur-Mer taking you behind the coast. Note that this provisional stretch is not signposted. 
From October 2021 onwards, you will be able to cycle along the definitive route, offering a stunning way along the cliffs.

You can reach grandiose Omaha Beach and the beautifully tended American war cemetery above it cycling via paths and minor roads, the way set to be signposted by June 2021, but if riding this way before then, remember to download the GPX tracks. Also, be aware that the surfacing of the route along this way is only being repaired bit by bit.

At Colleville-sur-Mer, you join a stretch that is well signposted, alternating between parish roads and greenways up to Port-en-Bessin. There's a very steep descent (>18%) as you come down to the port. Stop to admire the magnificent views!

SNCF

• Nearby station Bayeux station (10 km from Port-en-Bessin-Huppain), served by Normandy Intercity trains Paris-Saint-Lazare <> Cherbourg or Saint-Lô, via Caen, and Normandy TER trains.