Family Cycling and Camping in Normandy with Toddlers: A Tour de 2026

Family cycling and camping in Normandy with toddlers is an unforgettable adventure, as we discovered on our 130km journey through the Perche region. With ebikes and child seats, we tackled the Véloscénic greenway, camping at family-friendly sites and exploring chateaux and villages. Here’s how you can plan your own tour de France with little ones.

Why Choose Normandy for Family Cycling and Camping?

Normandy offers a gentle landscape of rolling hills, hedgerows, and meadows, perfect for a self-paced cycling holiday. The region is crisscrossed by voies vertes (car-free greenways) like the Véloscénic, which runs from Mont-Saint-Michel to Paris. These routes are safe for children, with minimal traffic and plenty of scenic stops.

Camping in Normandy is a breeze, with sites like Forest View near Rémalard offering spacious pitches and amenities for families. The local tourism board, France Vélo Tourisme, provides resources to find campsites that cater to cyclists, including secure bike storage and laundry facilities.

Planning Your Route: The Véloscénic and Beyond

Our five-day itinerary covered 130km from Rémalard-en-Perche to Domfront, mostly along the Véloscénic. We looped off to explore the Perche’s fairytale chateaux and villages. The route is flat enough for toddlers, but we recommend electric bikes (ebikes) to ease the load, especially when carrying child seats and panniers.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

• Day 1: Arrive by ferry to Caen, pick up ebikes, and settle at Forest View campsite.
• Day 2: Ride La Route Royale, a 25km circular route, with a lunch stop at Moutiers-au-Perche.
• Day 3: Head towards Domfront, stopping at chateaux and cider farms.
• Day 4: Explore the village of Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei, a hidden gem.
• Day 5: Final leg to Domfront, with a celebratory dinner.

Tips for Cycling with Toddlers

Cycling with toddlers requires extra preparation. Here are key takeaways from our trip:

• Rent ebikes – they make hills manageable and keep energy for sightseeing.
• Use child seats that are securely attached and comfortable for long rides.
• Plan for frequent breaks – toddlers need to stretch and snack.
• Pack light, but don’t forget sunscreen, rain gear, and a first-aid kit.
• Book campsites in advance, especially during peak season.

Comparison: Ebikes vs. Traditional Bikes for Family Trips

Where to Stay: Campsites and Hosts

We relied on a mix of campsites and kind hosts to move our bags between stops. Forest View offered a warm welcome and easy access to the route. Other options include municipal campsites and farm stays, which often provide local produce and family-friendly activities.

Exploring the Perche Region

The Perche is a historic province known for its bocage (hedgerow) landscapes, Percheron horses, and medieval villages. Don’t miss the Château de Chazé and the église Saint-Germain in Rémalard. The region is also famous for cidre and poiré, which you can sample at local press houses.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

Family cycling and camping in Normandy with toddlers is not only possible but magical. With ebikes, careful planning, and a spirit of adventure, you can create lasting memories. Start planning your tour de France today!