Geneva to Culoz (67 km)

This section takes you through the beautiful vineyards and countryside south of Geneva, then over the border into France. It is moderately demanding, with several steep descents and climbs, particularly around the Defile de l’Ecluse, where the Rhone squeezes through the Jura mountain range.

As you’d expect, there is a bit of traffic to pass through Geneva, but the bike paths are good. Once outside of the city, the countryside opens up into beautiful vineyards and villages. There was a nice restaurant in Laconnex, where we stopped for an early lunch.

After Chancy (17kms), stay on the same side of the river, crossing the French/Swiss border before reaching la Joux. Once through Valliery (23kms), there is a great view across the canton of Geneva to the Jura. Leave the N206 to head towards Vulbens and Chevrier (32kms). At the Defile de l’Ecluse, stop at the lookout to see the view of the Fort d’Ecluse opposite, and the Rhone below.



After a steep descent, and a corresponding climb, you reach the small village of Arcine (39kms). The next village to head towards is Clarafond, followed by Chêne-en-Semine, Challonges, and Veytrens D’en Haut, before reaching the beautiful town of Seyssel (53kms). There you should find plenty of places to eat, or stay.

We went on to Culoz (67kms), in order to get the train back to Geneva (one of the few places where the route meets this train line). There is limited accommodation in Culoz, so if you’re planning to continue down the Rhone the next day, it’s better to stop in Seyssel.