The Vélomaritime: Deauville - Cabourg greenway (EuroVelo 4)

The Vélomaritime between Cabourg and Deauville: An immersion between sea, cliffs and Belle Époque heritage

On the banks of the Côte Fleurie, the step between Cabourg and Deauville of the Vélomaritime (EuroVelo 4) offers a superb cycling getaway, between Seaside, architectural heritage and unspoiled landscapesThis route of approximately 32 kilometers, located in the department of CalvadosIt alternates between greenways, cycle lanes and shared roads, and appeals to both those seeking tranquility and more experienced cycling enthusiasts.

The departure is at Cabourg, a true gem of the Côte Fleurie, nicknamed the “Queen of the Belle Époque”Its urban plan, in the shape of an ancient theatre, is centred around the Casino Gardens, and its many luxurious villas, bear witness to the splendor of the resort at the end of the 19th century. To better understand this elegant era, a visit to the Villa of Time Regained A museum dedicated to the world of Marcel Proust and the society of the Belle Époque is essential.

The first portion up to Houlgate, long 8 kmtakes place in walking and cycling path, on a perfectly safe and very accessible route. Houlgate charms with its lively seaside, Its historic villas and its family atmosphere. After Houlgate, the route becomes more varied, alternating between shared roads and cycle lanes, with some sections awaiting development or marking.

À Villers-sur-Mer, the cliffs of "Black Cows cliffs" mark a striking geological and visual transition. This natural site, renowned for its Jurassic fossilsIt is a prime stop for nature lovers or paleontology enthusiasts. PaleospaceAn interactive museum allows visitors to delve into the region's prehistoric past. Further on, the Villers-Blonville marshes offer a refreshing break and biodiversity in a preserved space, ideal for wildlife observation.

The approach of DeauvilleAlthough more physically demanding, it offers one of the most beautiful panoramas of the route with the climb towards the Mont Canisya natural viewpoint offering a breathtaking 360° views of the sea and the Normandy countrysideA rewarding effort for motivated cyclists!

Finally, you join Deauville, a chic and legendary resort on the Normandy coast, known for its wooden planks, Its beaches lined with colorful beach huts, casino and cultural eventsIt's an ideal stop to conclude your stroll, combining leisurely wandering with Norman elegance.

On the practical side, several SNCF train stations mark the route: Cabourg-Dives, Houlgate, Villers-sur-Mer, Blonville-sur-Mer and of course DeauvilleAll connected by a seasonal line, facilitating train journeys to and from the starting and ending points. The route is accessible from spring to autumn, with one piece of advice: avoid sections on the D513 in summer, due to a heavy tourist traffic.