5 Days, 380km: Cycling Adventure from Strasbourg to Gray (EuroVelo 5 & 6)

Flo MBT
Jul 25
3 min read

Updated: Jul 26

What happens when you trade a car for a bike and set out across eastern France? Magic, freedom, sore legs — and the kind of memories that last a lifetime. Over five days and 380 kilometers, we pedaled from Strasbourg to Gray, following parts of the EuroVelo 5 and the EuroVelo 6, sleeping in campgrounds, bivouacking, and soaking up the heart of rural France. If you're looking for a bikepacking route packed with charm, vineyards, river paths, and small-town surprises — this one's for you.

Total Distance: 380 km Duration: 5 days
Route: Strasbourg → Neuf-Brisach → Altkirch → L’Isle-sur-le-Doubs → Saint-Vit → Gray
EuroVelo 5 & 6 with local road detours
Accommodation: Mix of camping, bivouacking, and hospitality

Day 1: Strasbourg → Neuf-Brisach (80km)

We kicked off our journey in Strasbourg, a city filled with timbered houses, canals, and lively cafés. Leaving the capital of Alsace behind, we followed the EuroVelo 5 toward Neuf-Brisach. While scenic in parts, we later realised that this stretch was the least visually impressive of our 5 days — but Strasbourg’s beauty made it a perfect starting point.

We spent the night at our friends' house in Neuf-Brisach, a fortified town designed by Vauban, which makes for a peaceful stop with historic charm.

Day 2: Neuf-Brisach → Altkirch (80km)

We followed EuroVelo 5 until we branched off to meet the EuroVelo 6, officially switching from Rhine-side cycling to riverside and forest routes. However, there was a catch — no campsites were available on this stretch of the EuroVelo 6, so we took a detour with some tough elevation to find a campground in Altkirch.

Though a bit off the path, Altkirch offered some welcome comfort and a chance to recharge.

Day 3: Altkirch → L’Isle-sur-le-Doubs (80km)

Back on the EuroVelo 6, we hit our stride. This was a dream day for cyclists — peaceful riverside paths, shade, wildlife, and the gentle rhythm of riding. We ended in L’Isle-sur-le-Doubs, a charming town with a campground right on the EuroVelo 6 and just a few steps from the village center.

Day 4: L’Isle-sur-le-Doubs → Saint-Vit (100km)

This was our favorite day — and also the longest. 100km of gorgeous landscapes, shady paths, charming bridges, and a feeling of total freedom. We stopped at a local riverside restaurant for lunch — a true hidden gem — and pedaled all the way to Saint-Vit.

Our original plan was to bivouac near the river, but there were no campervans or spots to tuck in. In a twist of fate, the security guard at the local water club offered us shelter for the night. We slept indoors on our mats — a bit unexpected but very welcome!

Day 5: Saint-Vit → Gray (40km)

Leaving the EuroVelo 6 behind, we navigated local backroads and country lanes through the rolling countryside. This short but scenic 40km ride was the perfect finale — tiny villages, fields of sunflowers, and quiet roads. We stopped in Pesmes, one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France", for coffee and a croissant before arriving in Gray.

Would we do it again?

YES! Cycling 380km in 5 days isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most rewarding ways to explore France. This route gave us everything: historic towns, hidden corners, riverside beauty, good food, and the kind of encounters that remind you why traveling slow is worth it.

Whether you're a seasoned bikepacker or simply looking to try something new, following one of the many EuroVelo routes is one of the best ways to experience Europe on two wheels.

Pro Tips:

Bring paper maps or offline GPS — signals in the countryside can be patchy.
Campgrounds close early — plan ahead!
Don’t skip local restaurants along the way. Some of our best meals were spontaneous.
A good sleeping mat and bivouac gear saved us more than once!

📍 Pin This Itinerary for Your Future Bike Trip in France!