Cross-continental cycle route for Jurassic Coast

A new cycle route linking the Channel Islands and northern France with the Jurassic Coast in Dorset is set to open next year, with local businesses hoping for increased tourism from the move.

The Petit Tour de Manche will link the three regions in a 265-mile route, taking in famous landmarks on both sides of the Channel including the site of the D-Day landings in Normandy, Poole Harbour and Dartmoor National Park.

Speaking of the effect the route could have on Dorset towns such as Weymouth, Councillor Peter Finney of Dorset County Council said: ‘We are confident that the new routes will not only bring more British tourists into Weymouth but also thousands of French tourists too, keen to enjoy one of the most scenic parts of Britain.’

Cycle tourism is set to rapidly increase in the next few years – see our tips on cycling and camping here, including sites with cycle hire.