Splendors of the Seine: Paris, Versailles & Fontainebleau
Guided from EUR € 1565
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Clair de Lune
Countries: France
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Experience France’s Rivers, Châteaux, and Countryside by Bike and Boat
Discover the allure of French history and art on a bike and boat tour along the Seine, Oise, and Loing Rivers. Cycle between Moret-sur-Loing and Auvers-sur-Oise, passing through varied landscapes, charming towns, and the scenic waterways of France.
Follow quiet forested paths to the grand halls of Fontainebleau Palace and the artist enclave of Barbizon, where 19th-century painters once found inspiration. As Paris draws near, the skyline unfolds with views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. The journey continues through the gardens of Versailles and the trails of Saint-Germain Forest, with stops in riverside towns like Bougival and Conflans. In Auvers-sur-Oise, walk through the same fields and streets that shaped Vincent van Gogh’s final works.
Each evening, return to the barge to relax over local cuisine, share stories with fellow travelers, and soak in the peaceful rhythm of life along the river.
Highlights
- Paris - City of Love
- Versailles - Royal Gardens
- Auvers-sur-Oise - Vincent Van Gogh's final resting place
- Barbizon - Village of Painters
- Fontainebleau Palace - UNESCO Château & Forest
- Saint-Germain Forest - Former royal hunting ground
Learn More
Interested in adding to your itinerary? Take a look at our cycling day tours in Paris.
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Daily program
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Day 1: Arrival in Moret-sur-Loing (6 mi. / 10 km)
Your experience begins in the artistic town of Moret-sur-Loing, famously associated with Impressionist painter Alfred Sisley. The barge will be docked here with boarding taking place between 1 and 2 pm. Once aboard, take some time to settle into your cabin, enjoy a welcome tea or coffee, and get acquainted with the crew, your guide, and fellow travelers. During dinner, the itinerary for the week will be introduced, including a briefing on cycling routes and safety guidelines. Later, your tour leader will take you on a short ride around Moret-sur-Loing, giving you a chance to appreciate its picturesque setting while familiarizing yourself with your bike.Day 2: Moret - Melun (28 mi. / 45 km)
Today’s ride leads you through the grounds of the Fontainebleau Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was a residence for French royalty for centuries. You’ll pedal through the Forêt de Fontainebleau, a vast woodland with fascinating sandstone rock formations. Along the way, visit the artist haven of Barbizon, often called the “Village of Painters,” where artists like Jean-François Millet and Théodore Rousseau once lived and worked. Your journey ends in Melun, a riverside town known for its historic Notre Dame Collegiate Church and botanical gardens. In the evening, take a stroll through Melun to soak in its atmosphere.Day 3: Melun - Vigneux-sur-Seine (31 mi. / 50 km)
Following the course of the Seine, today’s route leads to Corbeil-Essonnes, where you can pause for a coffee at a local café. The ride continues through the Forêt de Sénart, a woodland home to diverse wildlife. By day’s end, you’ll reach Vigneux-sur-Seine, where the barge will be waiting. Enjoy a restful evening on board after a scenic day along the riverbanks.Day 4: Vigneux-sur-Seine - Paris (Cruising Day)
This morning, relax and enjoy a cruise along the Seine as the barge makes its way into the heart of Paris. Watch as the skyline transforms, revealing iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. By early afternoon, the barge will dock at Bassin de la Villette. The rest of the day is yours to explore the City of Light at your own pace, whether that means sampling world-class cuisine or visiting famous attractions.Day 5: Paris - Bougival (25 mi. / 40 km)
Today’s ride begins with a cycling tour through Paris, following designated bike lanes past renowned sites like the Eiffel Tower, La Défense, and the green oasis of Bois de Boulogne. Continuing along the Seine, you’ll reach Bougival, a riverside town that inspired artists like Claude Monet. In the evening, enjoy a guided walk through Bougival, where you’ll learn about its artistic legacy.Day 6: Bougival - Conflans (28 mi. / 45 km)
Today’s highlight is a visit to Versailles, where you’ll have the opportunity to explore the magnificent Royal Gardens, a masterpiece of landscape design. As you continue your journey, you’ll pass by the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye and cycle through the Saint-Germain Forest before arriving in Conflans, a historic river port town.Day 7: Conflans - Auvers-sur-Oise (19 mi. / 30 km)
Your final cycling route takes you to Auvers-sur-Oise, the town where Vincent van Gogh spent his last days. Along the way, make a stop at the Axe Majeur, a striking architectural landmark offering panoramic views of Paris and La Défense. Upon arrival in Auvers, your guide will take you to significant locations tied to Van Gogh’s life, including his gravesite alongside his brother, Theo.Day 8: Departure from Auvers-sur-Oise
Your tour concludes after breakfast, with disembarkation at 10 am.Please note that all distances are approximate. The itinerary may be subject to change due to weather, wind conditions, docking arrangements, lock maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Day 1: Arrival in Auvers-sur-Oise (6 mi. / 10 km)
Welcome aboard in Auvers-sur-Oise, where your adventure begins! Arrive between 1 and 2 PM to settle into your floating home for the week. Enjoy a warm welcome with coffee or tea as you meet your tour leader, skipper, and fellow travelers. As evening approaches, sit down to a delicious dinner while the crew introduces the week’s itinerary and provides essential cycling and safety guidance. Later, take a relaxed introductory bike ride around Auvers-sur-Oise, getting a feel for your surroundings and easing into the journey ahead.Day 2: Auvers-sur-Oise – Conflans (19 mi. / 30 km)
The morning starts with a guided stroll through Auvers-sur-Oise, retracing the final days of Vincent van Gogh as you visit his resting place alongside his brother, Theo. Then, set out on your first full cycling day, following scenic routes toward Conflans. Along the way, stop at the monumental Axe Majeur, where sweeping panoramas of Paris and its modern La Défense district create a breathtaking contrast to the tranquil countryside.Day 3: Conflans – Bougival (28 mi. / 45 km)
Ride through the woodlands of Saint-Germain Forest, passing the stately Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, once a royal residence. Your destination today is the legendary Palace of Versailles, where you’ll spend the afternoon wandering through its spectacular gardens, a masterpiece of symmetry, fountains, and regal grandeur. After soaking in this royal splendor, a short ride brings you to Bougival, where the evening offers a guided walk through this charming town once beloved by Impressionist painters.Day 4: Bougival – Paris (25 mi. / 40 km)
Pedal along the Seine, following picturesque bike paths as you approach Paris, the romantic heart of France. Glide past La Défense, then on to the city’s iconic landmarks—the soaring Eiffel Tower, the grandeur of Notre Dame, and the elegant boulevards that have inspired generations. Your ride ends at Bassin de la Villette, where you’ll have the chance to experience the city’s vibrant nightlife with an evening out in Paris.Day 5: Paris – Vigneux (Cruising Day)
Enjoy a slower pace today as the barge cruises south along the Seine. Spend your morning exploring the wonders of Paris, indulging in a leisurely café breakfast or discovering a hidden gem before rejoining the barge at 3 PM. As you leave the city’s energy behind, unwind on deck and watch as the scenery shifts to tranquil riverside landscapes on the way to Vigneux.Day 6: Vigneux – Melun (31 mi. / 50 km)
Today’s ride follows the river through the Forêt de Sénart, a woodland retreat with quiet, winding trails. Stop for a break in the historic town of Corbeil-Essonnes before continuing to Melun, a town with a fascinating medieval past. Here, you’ll have time to explore landmarks like the Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, the Eglise St. Aspais, and the botanical gardens.Day 7: Melun – Moret-sur-Loing (28 mi. / 45 km)
Your final cycling day takes you on a ride toward Moret-sur-Loing, a medieval town that once enchanted the artist Alfred Sisley. Along the way, pass through Barbizon, an artistic haven where 19th-century painters sought inspiration in the rustic beauty of the landscape. Then, venture into the Forêt de Fontainebleau, where dramatic rock formations and towering trees create an otherworldly atmosphere. Take time to explore the Château de Fontainebleau’s gardens, a retreat once cherished by French monarchs. By afternoon, arrive in Moret-sur-Loing, where you can enjoy a final evening stroll through this storybook setting.Day 8: Departure from Moret-sur-Loing
After breakfast, your tour comes to an end at 10 AM.Please note that all distances are approximate. The itinerary may be subject to last-minute adjustments due to weather conditions, docking regulations, lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Accommodation
Boats
- Dining area
- Central heating
- Helmets are not available on board
- Daily cleaning of the cabins
- Free limited WIFI available on the lounge and on deck
Clair de Lune
The Clair de Lune, built originally in 1982 and renovated in 2014, is a cozy barge that travels in Holland, Belgium and France. The boat features a salon with large windows, comfortable cabins and a crew that will welcome you warmly! Read more
Overview
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Bikes
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Standard Touring Bike - Juijn
- 24-speeds with handbrakes
- Step-through frame for passengers from 4'11 to 5'10'' / 150cm - 178cm
- Men's frames for passengers from 4'11 to 6'8'' / 150cm - 203cm
- Equipped with:
- Pannier bag
- A fixed locked
- Water bottle
- Bike helmet
Electrically Assisted Bike - Freebike
- 8-speeds
- For passengers from 5'1 to 6'3'' / 155cm - 190cm
- Equipped with:
- Pannier bag
- A fixed locked
- Water bottle
- Bike helmet
*More about electrically-assisted bikes >
Additional equipment
We can provide children's bikes, trailers, child seats, and tandems upon request.
Dates & Prices
Questions about pricing or options? Call +1-215-613-0874 to talk to a Tour Advisor now.
Sep 18Sep 18 Moret - Auvers € 1845 Book Sep 18Sep 18 Moret - Auvers € 1920 Book Sep 25Sep 25 Auvers - Moret € 1705 Book Sep 25Sep 25 Auvers - Moret € 1725 Book Oct 2Oct 2 Moret - Auvers € 1705 Book Oct 2Oct 2 Moret - Auvers € 1725 Book Oct 9Oct 9 Auvers - Moret € 1565 Book Oct 9Oct 9 Auvers - Moret € 1620 Book Show pricing details and extra options →
Pricing details and extra options
Standard season:
Moret - Auvers: Oct 2
Auvers - Moret: Sep 25High season:
Moret - Auvers: Sep 18Low season:
Auvers - Moret: Oct 9- Moret - Auvers 2025 Oct 2 from € 17052025 departures: Oct 2
2025 October Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Double cabin € 1705 Twin cabin with split level beds € 1705 Single occupancy Price Double cabin for single use € 2415 Single cabin € 1725 Bike rental Price Standard touring bike Included Electric bike € 110 Extra Options Price Dietary requests (ex: gluten free or dairy free) € 100 Discounts are available for children. Please contact us for more details. - Auvers - Moret 2025 Sep 25 from € 17052025 departures: Sep 25
2025 September Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Double cabin € 1705 Twin cabin with split level beds € 1705 Single occupancy Price Double cabin for single use € 2415 Single cabin € 1725 Bike rental Price Standard touring bike Included Electric bike € 110 Extra Options Price Dietary requests (ex: gluten free or dairy free) € 100 Discounts are available for children. Please contact us for more details.
- Moret - Auvers 2025 Sep 18 from € 18452025 departures: Sep 18
2025 September Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Double cabin € 1845 Twin cabin with split level beds € 1845 Single occupancy Price Double cabin for single use € 2625 Single cabin € 1920 Bike rental Price Standard touring bike Included Electric bike € 110 Extra Options Price Dietary requests (ex: gluten free or dairy free) € 100 Discounts are available for children. Please contact us for more details.
- Auvers - Moret 2025 Oct 9 from € 15652025 departures: Oct 9
2025 October Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Double cabin € 1565 Twin cabin with split level beds € 1565 Single occupancy Price Double cabin for single use € 2205 Single cabin € 1620 Bike rental Price Standard touring bike Included Electric bike € 110 Extra Options Price Dietary requests (ex: gluten free or dairy free) € 100 Discounts are available for children. Please contact us for more details.
Included services
- 7 nights' accommodation aboard the Clair de Lune
- Breakfasts, 6 packed lunches, & 6 three-course dinners
- Complimentary coffee and tea onboard
- Guided cycling tours
- 24-speed Oxford touring bike with panniers, water bottle, lock, and helmet
- Bike insurance
- Three guided city walks
- WiFi available in the lounge and on deck (limited access)
- One road book per cabin
- Ferry crossings along the route
- Entry to the Fontainebleau Gardens
- GPS tracks available upon request
Map
Maps are for information purposes only and reflect typical routes between overnight locations. They may not reflect your actual route.
Surface and terrain
This is a moderate tour, featuring mostly flat paths with some gentle hills and manageable slopes. Daily rides average 26 miles (42 km). Routes include well-paved bike paths, country roads, and scenic forest trails.
How to get there
Tour start and end:
The closest airport to the barge embarkation point is Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG).Tour start, Moret-sur-Loing:
By train, the journey to Saint-Mammès station from Charles de Gaulle takes about 2.5 hours, followed by a 30-minute walk or a short taxi ride to the barge. A direct taxi from the airport takes approximately 2.5 hours.Tour start, Auvers-sur-Oise:
Traveling by train from Charles de Gaulle takes about 1.5 hours, with a 20-minute walk or short taxi ride to the barge. A direct taxi from the airport takes about 1.5 hours.Be the first to review this tour!
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