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Total Distance Covered on motorcycle: ~1800 Miles
ROAD TRIP PLAN:
After enjoying a motorcycle road trip last year, we couldn’t resist the adventure bug this year. With more time and confidence from our past experience, we decided to go even further and make it even more comfortable and exciting.
We aimed for Bordeaux, booked hotels to savor the journey at a relaxed pace. This allowed us to explore scenic smaller roads, winding through natural parks. The beauty was breathtaking, and without the rush, we could stop in charming villages, enjoy a cuppa or a quick bite. Plus, convenient pit stops were always close, thanks to supermarkets, McDonalds, or Burger King along the way.
We finally made it to Mont Saint Michel – a real-life fairy tale castle! Last time, we missed it due to time constraints. This trip, we not only got there but also stayed an extra night to fully soak in the enchanting surroundings.
Our road trip led us all the way down to La Rochelle before turning back, and we had the chance to explore so many new places this time around.
Check out the highlights of our journey toward Bordeaux. We did not quite make it all the way, but that was okay. The heat was intense as we headed south, thanks to a heatwave. I am all for warmth, just not when you are in full motorbike gear 🥵
We captured some video footage on the motorbike to share the joy of riding and the beautiful scenery. Also, check out the details of the hotels we stayed at – all with good secure parking facilities.
Please enjoy and I hope this will inspire those who have been thinking about travelling this way – JUST TAKE THAT LEAP. I recommend it so much, it gives you a sense of freedom, mental clarity and tranquility, you get to meet so many kind, beautiful people and see the vastness of natural beauty.
MAP OF FULL ROAD TRIP:
Check out these maps detailing different legs of our journey in France, complete with time and distance information. It is just a little something to give you a sense of the routes we took and what we explored along the way.
SOME PHOTOS OF THE HIGHLIGHTS:
Dieppe Castle (Normandy)
In the heart of Dieppe, the Château de Dieppe, founded by King Henry II in 1188, stands as a timeless testament to history. Transformed in 1433 by Charles des Marets, the castle weaves tales through its diverse architectural styles, combining flint, sandstone, and brick.
Despite the ravages of 1694, the castle endured. Acquired by the town in 1903, it became the beloved Dieppe museum, housing a captivating collection of ivories. Today, the castle resonates with living history, earning its place as a cherished historic monument—a testament to Dieppe’s enduring spirit.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Château_de_Dieppe
Le Havre (Normandy)
Welcome to Le Havre, a vibrant port city in Normandy, France, where the name itself evokes tales of the sea. Established by King Francis I in 1517, the city remains a lively tribute to its maritime heritage. With the second-largest port in France, it proudly embodies the nation’s maritime prowess, boasting the largest French container port.
Stroll through Le Havre’s streets, where Havrais and Havraises proudly carry the maritime spirit in their hearts. The city’s history unfolds like a grand tapestry, echoing the royal decree that laid its foundation. As you navigate its charming streets, immersed in stories of seafaring adventures, you’ll witness a community shaped by the enduring influence of the sea.
The heartbeat of Le Havre syncs with the tides on bustling docks, weaving an identity deeply rooted in employment and maritime traditions. Recognized by UNESCO in 2005, the city’s central area became a World Heritage Site, not just for its historical origins but also for its post-WWII reconstruction and architecture—a testament to Le Havre’s resilience and unique charm. Explore its streets, where every cobblestone narrates a story of rebirth and resilience.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Havre
British Memorial (Normandy)
The British Normandy Memorial, unveiled on June 6, 2021, the 77th D-Day anniversary, is more than a monument—it’s a heartfelt tribute to the 22,442 brave souls who sacrificed under British command. As you approach, history’s weight becomes palpable, etched into every stone. Designed by Liam O’Connor, known for his mastery at the National Memorial Arboretum, the memorial transcends the physical. Each curve and detail speaks to shared sacrifice, inviting reflection and honoring the indomitable spirit of those who gave their all for freedom.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/British_Normandy_Memorial
Mont Saint Michel (Normandy)
Picture Mont Saint Michel—an island commune with a heart so unique, it feels like a world of its own, revealed to pilgrims at low tide. This proximity wasn’t just convenient, it was strategic, transforming the commune into a fortress against assailants.
As tides shaped its destiny, Mont Saint Michel became more than a sanctuary. Louis XI saw its natural defense and turned it into a prison, blending echoes of prayers with the clink of bars. In 2023, President Macron marked a millennium, celebrating stories etched in stone and modern victories like the hydraulic dam and a pedestrian bridge, restoring the island’s identity.
UNESCO honored this timeless site in 1979, recognizing its aesthetic and Catholic significance. Wander through the commune, discovering 60+ protected historic buildings, each whispering tales of reverence for Mont Saint Michel’s mystique.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mont-Saint-Michel
The weather was gorgeous, prompting us to opt for a leisurely walk back to the hotel after our tour around Mont Saint Michel. Despite the intense afternoon heat, we were eager to soak in the countryside scenery and take in the views along the way. Along our route, we discovered a quaint shop where we stopped for refreshments. Inside, we were delighted by the diverse array of intriguing items on display, each contributing to the shop’s distinctive charm.
Pornic Castle (The Atlantic Coast)
In the heart of Pornic, the Château de Pornic stands as a meticulously restored castle, a silent guardian of the town’s rich history. More than stone and mortar, it’s a living symbol, a private sanctuary holding its secrets close. While not open to the public, its towers and weathered remnants tell tales of bygone eras.
The castle, witness to the ebb and flow of history, boasts enduring details and 19th-century restorations preserving authenticity. Since 1986, it’s earned the title of a historic monument, securing its place in time. The Château de Pornic invites you to imagine hidden tales as its echoes resonate through the landscape, a living memory within its walls.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Château_de_Pornic
La Rochelle Castle (The Atlantic Coast)
In La Rochelle, amid whispers of centuries past, the Lantern Tower stands as a medieval sentinel, weaving a maritime narrative. Known by various names, this tower served as a versatile storyteller—lighthouse, prison, and guardian of the Aunis coastline. Originally a vigilant watcher of ship traffic, it evolved into a multitasker guiding seafarers and confining those crossing the law. Its stone walls echo centuries of maritime adventures and somber tales. Bathed in lantern light, it once guided ships through darkness. Today, standing before the Lantern Tower means connecting with La Rochelle’s maritime essence, stepping into the lives of those who navigated both the sea and life’s intricate dance from its heights.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lantern_Tower_(La_Rochelle)
Chateau de Blois (The Loire Valley)
Nestled in the heart of Blois, the Royal Château whispers tales of centuries past. This regal residence, a jewel in the Loire Valley, not only housed Counts and French Kings but also welcomed Joan of Arc in 1429. Picture her stepping through its halls, seeking blessings before leading her army against the English.
The château is a living canvas, a blend of architectural styles that unfolds like a story. Imagine wandering through the medieval fortress remnants, feeling the Gothic grace of the Louis XII wing, and marveling at the Renaissance splendor of the Francis I wing. Then, let the Classical elegance of the Gaston of Orléans wing transport you through time.
Each stone in this rectangular edifice tells a chapter of history, a tangible connection to the past that invites you to step into the footsteps of royalty and the courageous Joan of Arc, making the Royal Château of Blois not just a castle but a living, breathing witness to the unfolding drama of time.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Château_of_Blois
Le Tréport (Normandy)
Welcome to the charming trio of Le Tréport, Eu, and Mers-les-Bains, affectionately known as the “Three Sisters” in local parlance.
In this close-knit community, Le Tréport unfolds as a quaint fishing port and light industrial town. Picture the picturesque meeting point where the river Bresle embraces the English Channel, nestled between towering chalk cliffs and a pebbly beach. Beyond its industrious spirit, Le Tréport wears the hat of a seaside resort, offering a delightful escape with its very own casino.
As you explore, feel the echoes of the Middle Ages, when this port weathered invasions by English forces. Le Tréport is not just a place, it is a canvas painted with tales of resilience, seafaring traditions, and the shared camaraderie of the Three Sisters.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Le_Tréport
FINALLY THE VIDEO WE MADE CAPTURING DIFFERENT PARTS OF OUR ROAD TRIP:
Sit back and enjoy this video showcasing some of the breathtaking natural beauty we had the pleasure of capturing during our journey through France. From the charming landscapes of Normandy and Brittany to the picturesque Atlantic Coast and the enchanting beauty of The Loire Valley, we hope this video brings a smile to your face 🙂
HOTELS WE STAYED AT (WITH SECURE PARKING):
We had such a wonderful journey, and I wanted to share some highlights from the places we stayed during our trip, all of which offered secure parking. Each accommodation had its own charm, and while some were more spacious than others, they all provided a cosy and comfortable place for a good night’s sleep.
One standout experience was at Ibis Pontorson in Mont Saint Michel, where we enjoyed amazing food at the Courtepaille steakhouse right in the hotel. It was a hit with the locals too.
Returning to Gold Beach Hotel in Asnelles, where we stayed last year, felt like coming home. We surprised one of the friendly staff members we befriended during our previous visit, and he was still there, offering us great recommendations for places to visit and eat.
For a touch of luxury, we stayed at Domitys La Palangre in Le Tréport. The newly refurbished apartment was a haven, attracting a mix of travellers and retirees. The place was exceptionally well run, and the residents were incredibly friendly, making our stay there truly special.
| Hotel | Place |
|---|---|
| Premier Inn Folkestone | UK |
| Ibis Dieppe Le Val Druel | Dieppe |
| Ibis Budget Le Havre Les Docks | Le Havre |
| Gold Beach Hotel | Asnelles |
| Ibis Pontorson Baie du Mont-Saint-Michel | Mont Saint Michel |
| Hotel Particulier Le Rocher des Marais | Pornic |
| AtHome Residence et Spa | La Rochelle |
| Ibis Poitiers Sud | Poitiers |
| Ibis Blois Vallée Maillard | Blois |
| Ibis Styles Rouen Val De Reuil | Rouen |
| Domitys La Palangre | Le Tréport |
| Premier Inn High Wycombe / Beaconsfield | UK |
CONCLUSION:
We had an absolutely fantastic adventure – both of us loved every moment, and the only downside was that we did not want it to end! Surprisingly, the way we approached the journey this time, though it may seem more stressful on paper, turned out to be less stressful and more relaxed in reality. We found ourselves riding along each day, and if only we had more time, we would have happily extended our stay in certain places. There was just so much to see and do that half a day did not feel nearly enough to explore all the hidden gems.
If you ever get the chance to travel this way, I wholeheartedly recommend it. The experience was simply unforgettable!
GENERAL EQUIPMENT
- GoPro 8 using SuGru to mount onto helmet (for recording video)
- iPhone 7 Plus with Lifeproof waterproof case (for google maps to get us to our destinations)
- Garmin Zumo (came with the motorcycle for backup routing)
- Honda NC750X DCT (smooth comfy ride, even for pillion)
- iPad Pro (11-inch 2018 used to book our hotels along the way)
- iPhone 15 Pro (taking photos and recording video, also used for contactless payments)
- Halifax Clarity Mastercard (contactless payments made easier no fees – no need to remove my helmet 🙂 )