Yes — you can cycle to the vast majority of the British D-Day sites in Normandy in a single day, and it’s one of the most meaningful rides you’ll ever take. Starting in Caen, this 80 km gravel and road route visits Ranville Cemetery, Pegasus Bridge, Sword Beach, Juno Beach, and the British Normandy Memorial at Ver-sur-Mer. Here’s how the ride unfolds — and what to expect along the way.
Can You Visit All the British D-Day Sites by Bike?
Absolutely. The route is about 80 km and mixes paved roads with off-road gravel sections. It’s suitable for a gravel bike or a robust hybrid and can be completed in a single day, even with time to stop and reflect at each major site.
What’s the Best Cycling Route from Caen to Ver-sur-Mer?
Route Highlights:
- Start: Caen Centre
- Stop 1: Ranville War Cemetery
- Stop 2: Pegasus Bridge
- Stop 3: Sword Beach at Ouistreham
- Stop 4: Juno Beach at Courseulles-sur-Mer
- Stop 5: British Normandy Memorial, Ver-sur-Mer
- Finish: With a return to Caen
Check out the video for more information on the route I took
How Difficult Is the Ride?
It’s manageable for intermediate cyclists. While there are no long climbs, some gravel sections and wind exposure near the coast can be challenging. Expect to be in the saddle for 4–6 hours depending on pace and stops.
What D-Day Sites Does This Route Include?
- Ranville Cemetery: First village liberated by the British 6th Airborne.
- Pegasus Bridge: Site of a daring glider landing and key to holding the eastern flank.
- Sword Beach: Where British infantry landed on June 6, 1944.
- Juno Beach: Landed by Canadian forces, heavily fortified.
- British Normandy Memorial: A moving modern memorial overlooking Gold Beach.
What Should You Bring for the Ride?
- Gravel or hybrid bike (33–40mm tires ideal)
- Waterproof layers (Normandy weather shifts quickly)
- Snacks + water (shops limited on coastal paths)
- GPS or smartphone with offline maps
- Respectful mindset — these are sites of remembrance
What’s the Historical Significance of Ver-sur-Mer?
Ver-sur-Mer sits just above Gold Beach and is home to the British Normandy Memorial, which lists over 22,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers who died in the Normandy campaign. It’s a fitting and emotional end point to this historic ride.
Want to See the Full Ride?
Watch the video:
Follow the ride from Caen to the coast, past the cemeteries, over Pegasus Bridge, and into the heart of D-Day history — all told through a cinematic voice-over.
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