BV25-04 La Roche-Guyon

La Roche-Guyon is a charming village located northeast of Paris on the banks of the Seine. Although small and not as well-known as other destinations, it boasts a unique 12th-century castle fortress and a château built into the limestone cliffs that are definitely worth seeing. This route takes you out of Paris to the château and then briefly back up the Seine, making it easy to catch a train back into the city.

The journey begins by heading towards the Forêt de Saint-Germain, following the typical route to Normandy. After leaving the city, there is a short section of gravel through the Forêt de Saint-Germain, but it is very manageable for road bikes with 28mm tires. You will continue on the Paris-London route through Wy-dit-Joli-Village, where you will cut east and make your way to the Seine. This section features a lovely forest followed by open fields atop the river bluff. As you approach the Seine, you will be treated to incredible views down to the river below. On your left, you will see where the river has carved its way through the bright limestone cliffs, and on your right, rolling hills mixed with farmland and quaint villages. You will then make a sharp turn and snake your way down the bluff to arrive at the château. There are a couple of restaurants and a boulangerie in town just past the château If you need to refuel.

After taking a few photos and perhaps enjoying a snack, you will begin making your way to the train. The next 10 kilometers follow the Seine and offer beautiful views of the bright cliffs as the road winds along the river. There is a quick climb as you cut the corner on one of the river bends, then drop back down into Mantes-la-Jolie. From there, you can catch the Transilien J and be back at Saint-Lazare in 35 minutes.

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