Cycle Nice to Genoa

Name: Cycle Nice to Genoa
Brand: UTracks
SKU: NTG
Rating: 4.14 (7 reviews)

Cycle along the coastline from Nice in France to Genoa in Italy

Cycle along the spectacular coastline from Nice in France to Genoa in Italy

Cycle along the coastline from Nice in France to Genoa in Italy

Cycle along the spectacular coastline from Nice in France to Genoa in Italy

Cycle along the coastline from Nice in France to Genoa in Italy

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Duration

8 days

Activities

self guided cycle

Accommodation

7 nights hotels and B&Bs

Meals

7 Breakfasts

Price

$2390USD

Overview

Trip Code: NTG

Trip highlights

Discovering the French and Italian Riviera by bike
Enjoying the glamour of the Côte d'Azur, including the cities of Nice and Montecarlo
Following coastal cycling paths and soaking up the sea air
Experiencing a quieter side of the bustling Riviera

The French and Italian Riviera are idyllic and stunning destinations, and they are perfect to explore by bike. Nice, which is a fascinating mix between the modern and cosmopolitan and the grand old palaces, is your starting destination. Stroll along the famous promenade, visit the flower market or relax on the beach before starting your cycle journey to Italy. Commencing the cycle stage, you follow the coast, admiring the clear Mediterranean waters and stopping in small towns and fishing villages. You'll visit the famed Monte Carlo before crossing the border into Italy where you can have a coffee break at a small cafe or stop for a swim at the cove of Balzi Rossi. Much of this tour follows coastal cycling paths, where you can smell the sea air and experience a quieter side of the bustling Riviera. With time to visit an archaeological museum, an olive oil museum and visit the artists and ceramists of Albisola, this trip has so much to offer. Finishing in the port city of Genoa, birthplace of Christopher Columbus, where you can walk its narrow streets and visit its palaces and churches, a legacy of its resplendent past. History, glamour, culture and stunning coastal views - you'll get to experience and enjoy it all on this week long self guided cycle.

Trip Grading

moderate

More info about grading system

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Itinerary

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Day 1
Arrive Nice

Today you will make your own way to the first hotel in Nice. Once you have checked in you are free to explore this fascinating city. Nice is a fabulous starting point for the trip, it has a great mix of cosmopolitan and grand old palaces. You can visit the flower market and the old town, then take a walk on the famous Promenade des Anglais where the cycling trip starts.

Meals: Nil

Day 2
Cycle along the coast to Monte Carlo, Menton and Ventimiglia (43km/26.5mi)

Three countries in one day! From France, through Monaco and into Italy. Set out from Place Massena along the Promenade des Anglais, along the seaside. Later there are a few short climbs, before you reach Monte Carlo. Here you are likely to encounter traffic. Continue along the coast, cycling down to Menton, with its long beach. Shortly afterwards you'll cross the border into Italy, where you'll find the beautiful 'Balzi Rossi' beach and interesting Prehistoric Museum. Continue along the coast to Ventimiglia and your hotel. Ascent: 560m/1837ft, descent 525m/1722ft.

Meals: B

Day 3
Pass coastal villages to Imperia or Porto Maurizio (50km/30.5mi)

Today you will continue up and down, cycling along roads passing through lovely coastal villages. We recommend taking a coffee break among the narrow streets of Bordighera Alta, before proceeding along the Pista Ciclabile della Riviera Ligure (the Cycle Track of the Ligurian Riviera), and passing through the village of San Lorenzo al Mare. At the end of the day you will arrive at Porto Maurizio, part of the town of Imperia, which has been divided into little villages, each with its own unique identity. This afternoon you can stroll by the charming stone houses of La Foce - the fishermen’s village. Overnight in Imperia or Porto Maurizio. Ascent: 495m/1624ft, descent 501m/1643ft.

Meals: B

Day 4
Continue to Alassio (44km/27mi)

Today's cycle passes through many coastal villages where you can explore their little 'carruggi' and 'budelli' (alleyways). The medieval village of Cervo deserves a visit and an exploration on foot. Before arriving in Alassio, where you will stay tonight, there's a detour inland with a few km climb before the final descent. With its sandy beaches, seaside restaurants and hotels, Alassio is a popular holiday destination known for its natural and scenic views, and has featured in the works of numerous artists, writers and musicians. Ascent: 599m/1965ft, descent 775m/2542ft.

Meals: B

Day 5
Cycle on an ancient Roman road to Finale Ligure (43km/26.5mi)

Your route for the day follows the Via Julia Augusta, an ancient Roman road commissioned by the Emperor Octavius. As you leave Alassio you will notice that the land still bears traces of this ancient Roman road. A surprising cycle today takes you through the remains of ancient necropoli and has panoramic views of the isle of Gallinara. You can stop in Albenga to admire the mosaics that decorate the face of the baptistery, or to enjoy the famous chickpea flour focaccia. In Finale we recommend trying grilled fish in one of its typical restaurants. After dinner, do not miss a walk through the medieval district of Finalborgo, which, in the evening becomes even more beautiful thanks to its attractive lighting. Overnight Finale Ligure. Ascent: 717m/2352ft, descent 735m/2411ft.

Meals: B

Day 6
Cycle via pretty fishing villages to Savona (30km/18.5mi)

The cycle today is through some pretty fishing villages, such as Varigotti and Noli. Take some time for a break to stop for a swim or a coffee in a beachside cafe. Follow the Ligurian coast to Savona, which was once an important harbour, with its impressive Palomar fortress. Later in the day it's nice to walk around Albissola Marina, home to many ceramic craftsmen whom you will notice as you walk along the colourful coastal promenade. Overnight Savona. Ascent: 465m/1525ft, descent 458m/1502ft.

Meals: B

Day 7
Continue along a cycle path to Arenzano, train to Genoa (25km/15.5mi)

The cycle for today is a short one, mainly on a dedicated cycle path. Cycle to Arenzano station. Here you hand over your bike to our representative and collect your luggage before taking the train to Genoa (ticket not included, allow EUR4. There are regular services, takes around 35 minutes). From the station make your way to the hotel. You will have plenty of time to visit this beautiful city, the old and new harbour, the imposing aquarium, as well as its many squares, churches and palaces. Ascent: 211m/692ft, descent 215m/705ft.

Meals: B

Day 8
Trip concludes

The trip concludes this morning in Genoa after breakfast. We can assist with booking extra nights if you'd like to extend your stay to further explore the city.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.

Inclusions

What's included

7 breakfasts
7 nights in charming B&Bs and 3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
Hybrid 27 speed rental bike with pannier, repair kit, odometer and lock - helmet available on request (e-bikes available - supplement applies)
Digital information pack including route notes & maps per room booked, navigational app access
Luggage transfer (max 1 piece, max weight 20kg and max size 60 x 50 x 40 cm per person) *on day 7 to Arenzano station. Supplement applies for excess
Emergency hotline

What's not included

Travel to Nice and from Genoa
Meals not listed as included, drinks
Entrance fees
Guide – this is a self guided cycling holiday
A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
Travel insurance
Hotel taxes (allow approx €5-10)
Train ticket Arenzano to Genoa (allow EUR4 per person) on day 7
(note: do not ride into Genoa! The cycling ends at the station in Arenzano on day 7. A hefty fee applies for the bike collection in Genoa and will be charged)
We recommend bringing a phone holder to best use the navigational app.
Excess luggage
Items of a personal nature

Bike information

Hybrid Bike

During the trip you will be provided with a 27 speed hybrid bike. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a bike computer/odometer, lock and repair kit. Hemet rental is available on request.

Electric Bike

An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below. Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 12 years and a minimum height requirement is 155cm / 5ft1in.

Grading

moderate

This trip involves 6 days cycling with daily distances between 25 to 50km/15.5 to 30.5mi. The cycle route is mainly along well-asphalted secondary roads with several long sections on paved cycling paths. As you approach larger towns you will cycle on roads with more traffic. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. The train line follows the Ligurian coast so if you don't feel like cycling the full distance on any day you can hop on the train with your bike in most villages along the way. *For safety reasons we insist that helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list.

Departure dates

Every Saturday from 20 Apr to 5 Oct

Notes

High Season

Note:

High season is from 8 Jun to 7 Sep - supplement applies.

Note:

This trip is not suitable for solo travellers, please ask our staff for alternatives.

Want to organise a private group?

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Priceper person from

$2390USD

Options & Supplements*

e-bike supplementUSD$220
Single supplementUSD$530

*Prices listed are per person

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