The River Rhone Cycle Route : From the Alps to the Mediterranean

Starting high at the Furkapass in the Swiss Alps and finishing at the Mediterranean coast, the River Rhone cycle route is a spectacular journey mostly downhill through Switzerland and France. This comprehensive Cicerone guidebook covers the full route in detail, with stage-by-stage descriptions, 1:150,000 mapping and everything you need to plan and enjoy the ride. Whether you're an experienced cycle tourist or looking for your first European adventure, this route is accessible to most cyclists and typically completed in 12 to 14 days. The route is divided into 20 manageable stages averaging 45km each, with a recommended 12-day schedule. An optional prologue stage from Andermatt or Oberwald takes you to the high-altitude start point, while two route options around Lake Geneva—via Lausanne and Montreux or via Thonon-les-Bains—give you flexibility to tailor your ride. Detailed mapping guides you through key cities including Martigny, Geneva, Lyon, Vienne, Valence, Montélimar and Avignon, and downloadable GPX files enable easy digital navigation on GPS devices or smartphone apps. Drawing on extensive experience of European cycle touring, this guide provides practical advice on preparation, transport, accommodation, food and drink, and what to take. Comprehensive chapters, a facilities summary, tourist information appendix and French/German language glossary ensure you have everything needed to ride one of Europe's great river routes—from the Furkapass to the sea, passing through the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône, the papal city of Avignon and the Roman remains at Arles.