Hourtin is a sanctuary for cycling enthusiasts, just a stone’s throw from Bordeaux. Here, cars take a back seat to nature. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist on the Vélodyssée or a family looking for safety, the area offers an exceptional network of trails.
For holidaymakers at our campsite in Hourtin, Les Ourmes, cycling is the ideal way of life. The cycle paths in Hourtin link the Carcans-Hourtin lake, the town and the ocean, promising a vacation in Gironde under the sign of freedom.
What you need to know for your outings
| Itinerary | Distance | Difficulty | Surface | Highlight |
| La Vélodyssée (North) | 20 km (towards Montalivet) | Easy | Smooth asphalt | Forest crossing, ideal for families |
| La Vélodyssée (South) | 34 km (towards Lacanau) | Medium | Mixed | Access to Etang de Cousseau, dune landscapes |
| Genêts loop | ~14 km | Easy | Tar/Sand | Dunes and marshes of Hourtin, wild nature |
| Tour du Lac | 57 km | Endurance | Asphalt | Giant freshwater lake, breathtaking views |
| Town-Plage link | 12 km | Easy | Secure runway | Direct route Hourtin Ville-Océan |
| Piqueyrot loop | ~21 km | Easy | Mostly paved | Piqueyrot Hourtin Plage, fishing village, rest stop |
The Vélodyssée: the backbone of the Médoc Atlantique
Hourtin is a key stage on La Vélodyssée (EuroVelo 1 – France). This legendary itinerary attracts those who complete the long-distance Roscoff-Hendaye route. On our territory, it structures travel and connects the Médoc to the rest of Europe.
The section from Montalivet-les-Bains to Hourtin Plage
This 20-kilometre segment is particularly attractive for its safety. With a large section on a greenway, it is ideal for cyclists on the Vélodyssée. The gradient is negligible, ensuring smooth pedaling. The route winds through the national forest, a veritable tunnel of greenery. The cycle paths in Hourtin in this sector have a smooth surface. It’s a fast route to Hourtin Plage or Montalivet, and back to the typical atmosphere of the Atlantic resorts.
Heading south: Hourtin Plage to Lacanau Océan
To the south, the distance lengthens to reach Lacanau Océan. This section alternates between dedicated paths and shared sections. The route skirts the Etang de Cousseau, offering a superb transition between wooded dunes and back dunes. These Médoc coastal trails pass through fragile ecosystems. This is a key stop-off point for those heading down to the Bassin d’Arcachon or Cap Ferret. Summer visitor numbers are rising, proving the appeal of this green tourism.
In the heart of nature: local loops
Hourtin is famous for its winding lanes, perfect for a slow-paced stage of discovery.
The Genêts loop: a window on the reserve
For residents of our Les Ourmes campsite, the Boucle des Genêts is a must. Departure is often from Hourtin or Contaut. This circuit takes visitors deep into the forest and crosses the Hourtin dunes and marshes nature reserve. You pedal between oaks and pines, an experience that photographer David Remazeilles (for Gironde Tourisme) has often immortalized. The surface is mostly tarmac, but there are some sandy stretches that require vigilance. This is an opportunity to see how Hourtin’s cycle paths enhance the environment.
Let tour du lac Carcans-Hourtin: the family challenge
The 57-kilometre tour of the Carcans-Hourtin lake is a great day out. The route skirts France’s largest freshwater lake (6,000 hectares). The flat route is also suitable for families. The route passes through Maubuisson and Bombannes. The cycle paths in Hourtin on this loop keep users safe and away from cars. It’s a bike tour in Hourtin that gives the impression of a long journey.
Piqueyrot: the pearl of the lake accessible by bike
Piqueyrot, close toHourtin Plage, is a locality on the north-western shore, ideal for exploring by bike. Access is via a dedicated cycle path winding from the Route de l’Océan. There’s a beach with calm waters where the municipality has set up a rest stop.
It’s an ideal break from exploring the cycling trails in Hourtin. The unique atmosphere between lake and forest inspires designers such as David Remazeilles, whose shots sublimate the destination.
The City-Ocean link: a vital artery
The road linking Hourtin Ville to the ocean is changing all that. This 12 km bike path in Hourtin allows you to reach Hourtin Plage or the center of town in 45 minutes. Pedal from the campsite. It’s on this route that the spirit of the Hourtin cycle paths is at its best: an invitation to slow down.
The bicycle economy: services and rental
The commune has a dense network of bike rental outlets. In Hourtin Port, the bike rental market is vast: mountain bikes, VTCs or electric bikes in Hourtin. These professionals know the bike routes in Hourtin. They can advise on the practicability of the route and often provide a GPX track.
The “Accueil Vélo” label, present at several service providers and at our Les Ourmes campsite, guarantees an adapted service: repair kit and secure shelter. This is essential for those making the Roscoff-Hendaye route.
Preparing for your outing: practical advice
Taking advantage of the cycle paths in Hourtin requires some preparation.
- Hydration: on the way to Montalivet, there are no water points. Bring your own water bottles.
- Orientation: a map or app with a GPX track is useful, even if Gironde Tourisme’s signposting is excellent.
- Respect: stay on the bike paths from the Médoc to Hourtin to protect the dunes and vegetation.
- Equipment: the VTC is the ideal choice for alternating between asphalt and forest paths towards Carcans Plage or Le Porge Océan.
Hourtin has established itself as a top cycling destination, rivalling the likes of Lège-Cap-Ferret and the Bordeaux-Lacanau link. The diversity of its landscapes and its safety make it an ideal playground.
Our campsite in Hourtin, Les Ourmes, is proud to be at the heart of this network. Cycling here is not an option, it’s the key to discovering the secrets of the Médoc. Inflate your tires and come ride along the most beautiful routes on the Atlantic coast!