Cycling in Provence – Côte d'Azur during your holiday in the South of France

Anyone who has ever cycled through the South of France remembers the sound of crickets, the scent of lavender and the warmth of the sun on their skin. The Provence – Côte d'Azur is made for cyclists: quiet country roads, mountain passes with views, and coastal paths along the Mediterranean Sea. Whether you are an experienced cyclist, a family with young children, or simply enjoy leisurely trips along the coast, Provence – Côte d'Azur offers thousands of kilometers of cycling routes that wind through the heart of southern France. From the Luberon and Mont Ventoux to the Gorges du Verdon and the coast near Saint-Tropez, each area has its own character. Discover these beautiful areas during your stay in France.

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Who is cycling in the South of France suitable for?

The region is attractive for all ages and levels:

  • Families – flat trails along the coast or through the Camargue.
  • Couples – romantic trails between lavender and vineyards.
  • Seniors – e-bike trails with plenty of rest points.
  • Groups of friends – sporty trails with steep climbs.
  • Racing cyclists – classics such as Mont Ventoux or the cols of the Préalpes.

A holiday home in the South of France or luxury villa in Provence – Côte d'Azur is a great base for your next cycling holiday: space for bicycles, a terrace in the sun and often a swimming pool to cool off.

Types of bikes for your bike ride

There is no single perfect bicycle for this region – it depends on your route, your fitness level and your companions.

  • Racing bike – Ideal for those who love speed and like to climb. With its light frame and thin tires, the racing bike is the king of Provence. Especially in the Vaucluse and the Luberon there are challenging ascents and descents, including the mythical Mont Ventoux.
  • Touring bike or hybrid bike – Comfortable, sturdy and suitable for longer distances on paved roads. Perfect for exploring villages, markets and vineyards.
  • Electric bike (e-bike) – Increasingly popular among families and seniors. The electric assistance makes hilly terrain easily accessible without exhaustion.
  • Mountain bike (VTT) – In the rougher hinterland of the Alpes-Maritimes and the Verdon there are numerous routes with unpaved paths, gorges and forests.
  • Gravel bike – The ideal middle ground between racing bike and mountain bike, perfect for those who want to explore both asphalt and gravel paths.

Rent a bike or bring your own bike?

Both options are perfectly feasible. Almost all villages have bicycle rental points with racing bikes, mountain bikes and e-bikes. For those staying in a holiday home in the South of France, it is useful to reserve your bikes in advance. If you plan to cycle more often or want to go on longer trips, bringing your own bicycle is a good idea. Most holiday parks and luxury villas in Provence – Côte d'Azur have secure storage options.

Cycling in the Luberon

The Luberon is Provence in its purest form: lavender fields, cypresses and hilltop villages. The roads are quiet and slightly sloping, ideal for touring cyclists and racing cyclists.

Route 1 – The Luberon Wine Route
A trip of about 50 kilometers through the heart of the region. Start in Bonnieux and cycle via Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux and Gordes.
You will drive over the D3 and D900 between lavender fields and vineyards. During the summer, the scent of thyme and rosemary hangs in the air. Along the way, have a break and enjoy a tasting of Côtes du Luberon wines or sip on a coffee in one of the cafes in ochre-coloured Roussillon, where the views over the valley are breathtaking. You can leave your bike here for a while and take a walk through this part of Provence. The route is slightly hilly and marked well, this is a highly recommended day out from your holiday home with pool in Provence.

Route 2 – From Apt to Lourmarin via Col du Pointu
About 60 kilometers with 700 meters of elevation gain. From Apt you climb via Saignon to the Col du Pointu (734 m). The road winds through oak forests, along the way you have views over the Calavon valley. After the summit, you will descend to Lourmarin, a beautiful village in Provence with markets and terraces. Take time for lunch with local goat cheese before cycling back via Bonnieux.

Cycling on Mont Ventoux

The legendary Mont Ventoux is a dream for cyclists. This "giant of Provence" rises 1,909 meters above the landscape and is an icon of French cycling. The most famous climb starts in Bédoin: 21 kilometers, 1,610 meters of elevation gain. The first seven kilometers go through forests; after which you will reach Chalet Reynard, where the landscape changes to a bare, white world of stone. The last six kilometers are the toughest: steep slopes, bright sun, and the wind that lives up to its name. When you reach the Sommet du Ventoux sign and have reached the summit, you will see a panorama stretching from the Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. Alternative routes you can cycle are:

  • From Malaucène – 22 km, 1,570 m ascent, a little more regular.
  • From Sault – 26 km, 1,200 m ascent, the friendliest option, suitable for e-bikers.

Along the way there are several cafes, water points and places to catch your breath. A holiday park in Provence or a holiday home near Mont Ventoux is an ideal base for this trip, but you can also  spend a day at Mont Ventoux from your luxury holiday home in FranceComfort Jardin du Golf. Combine the climb with gentler rides through the Gorges de la Nesque, where tunnels, gorges and viewpoints form the backdrop.

Cycling in the Gorges du Verdon

The Gorges du Verdon is one of the most impressive natural sites of the South of France. The rugged rock walls, turquoise river and scent of pines make it a paradise for those who love nature and challenge.

Route 1 – Gorges du Verdon Trail
This 45-kilometer route starts from Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque village set against the cliff face. You will cycle on gravel paths along the lake of Sainte-Croix and climb up to the plateau via La Palud-sur-Verdon. The route is varied: stretches of forest, gravel and panoramic viewpoints. Bring a picnic or stop at a viewpoint to admire the depth of the canyon. After the descent, you can relax on the terrace of a restaurant in Moustiers, with a glass of local wine and a view over the valley.

Route 2 – Route des Crêtes
This is a shorter loop of 23 kilometers around La Palud-sur-Verdon. The narrow D23 is one of the most beautiful roads in France, with 14 viewpoints, including the spectacular Belvédère de l'Escalès. The road rises and descends alternately, with some tough sections, but the view is great. Ideal for those who  want to make an adventurous trip from FranceComfort Résidence de Salernes with a racing bike or e-bike.

Cycling in the Préalpes d'Azur

The Préalpes d'Azur lie North of Grasse– rugged, green and quiet. Here you will find mountain roads, valleys and villages that cling to the rocks like eagle's nests.

Route – Grasse – Gourdon – Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey
A tough ride of 55 kilometers with 1,000 meters of elevation gain. From Grasse you can climb to the Gourdon via the D3, which overlooks the coast.
The descent to Saint-Vallier-de-Thiey is smooth, with wide curves and little traffic. In Gourdon, you can take a break at one of the terraces with a view over the valley. This route which can be done from your luxury villa in FranceComfort Domaine de Castellane requires a reasonable level of fitness, but offers a wonderful contrast to the hustle and bustle of the coast.

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Cycling along the coast of Provence – Côte d'Azur

Those who prefer to cycle on flat roads whilst enjoying views of the Mediterranean Sea and its numerous water sports can choose from various coastal routes.

Route 1 – La Littorale (Toulon – Saint-Tropez)
A 90-kilometre route that runs largely on a former railway line. Start in Toulon and cycle via Hyères, Le Lavandou and Cavalaire-sur-Mer to Saint-Tropez. The route is mostly flat and suitable for e-bikes. Along the way, you will pass beaches and charming ports. In Bormes-les-Mimosas, you can stop for lunch on a terrace whilst admiring the flowers and sea views.

Route 2 – Fréjus – Sainte-Maxime – Saint-Tropez
A varied 60-kilometre trip on the D559, with slightly sloping sections through the Massif de l'Esterel. The route offers a view over the bay of Saint-Tropez. Stop at Port Grimaud, the "Venice of the South of France", for an ice cream or a boat trip to St. Tropez.

Route 3 – Nice – Antibes – Cannes
A flat route of 40 kilometers on boulevards and cycle paths. You will cycle along the coast from Nice through the Cap d'Antibes to Cannes. Along the way, you will drive past the beautiful beaches of the Mediterranean Sea, markets and the old port of Antibes – perfect for families or couples.

Cycling in Sainte-Baume

The Sainte-Baume is located between Aix-en-Provence and Toulon and is an ideal region for touring cyclists and e-bikers.

Route – Aix-en-Provence to Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume
A 70-kilometre ride full of variety. From Aix-en-Provence you cycle via Pourrières and Rians through wine regions and pine forests. Along the way, you will see the wineries of the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire, where you can stop for a small tasting. Saint-Maximin is home to the magnificent Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in the South of France. This route almost runs past your villa with private pool in FranceComfort Vallée de la Ste Baume.

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Cycling in the Massif des Maures

Between Saint-Tropez and Hyères lies the Massif des Maures mountain area.

Route – Tour of Bormes-les-Mimosas and Collobrières
Start in Bormes-les-Mimosas, a flowery village overlooking the sea. The 50-kilometre route takes you along the D41 to Collobrières, known for its chestnut liqueur. The road is undulating with a few steep climbs, but you will constantly be rewarded with views of the coastline. Along the way, you can visit the Chartreuse de la Verne monastery, hidden deep among the woods. On the way back, you will descend to the coast of the Mediterranean Sea, where beaches and terraces await. This part of Provence is perfect for a day trip from a holiday home near the Mediterranean Sea.

Tips for cycling routes through the South of France for every type of bike

Racing bike – 3 legendary routes

  • Mont Ventoux from Bédoin
  • Gorges of the Nesque
  • Route des Crêtes near Cassis

Touring bike– 3 charming routes

  • Luberon Wine Route
  • Tour of Camargue
  • From Aix-en-Provence to Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume

Along the coast – 3 routes with sea view

  • La Littorale – from Toulon to Saint-Tropez
  • Nice – Antibes – Cannes
  • Fréjus – Sainte-Maxime – Saint-Tropez

Mountain bike – 3 adventorous tours

  • Gorges du Verdon Trail
  • Esterel Massif
  • Route du Mont Lachens

Frequently asked questions about cycling in Provence

1. When is the best time to cycle in Provence – Côte d'Azur?
Between April and October. During the summer it is very hot; so if you do go cycling depart early in the morning.

2. Are there cycling routes for families?
Yes, the Voies Vertes and routes in the Camargue, the Luberon and along the coast are perfect for families.

3. Can I rent a bike in the South of France?
Yes, in almost every village there are rental points for racing bikes, e-bikes and mountain bikes.

4. Is it mandatory to wear a helmet?
Mandatory for children under 12 years old, strongly recommended for adults.

5. Are there organized bike tours or guides available?
Yes for sure! Guided tours are offered in many villages, especially in the Luberon, Verdon and along the coast.

6. Where can I stay during a cycling holiday?
FranceComfort offers comfortable holiday homes in Provence and homes in other holiday parks in the South of France close to cycling routes.

7. Does FranceComfort offer other holiday homes in France?
Yes, you can find information about them on Holiday Home Languedoc, Holiday Home Dordogne, and Holiday Home Poitou-Charentes.

Good preparation is half the battle

  • Check the bike – tires, brakes, chain.
  • Clothing – breathable, light and UV-resistant; bring a windbreaker for descents.
  • Planning – leave early, seen as it is hot between 12 and 15 o'clock.
  • Safety – helmet is compulsory for children, your bike needs lights when cycling at dusk.
  • Phone - make sure your mobile phone is fully charged.

Practical tips for the road

  • Water and snacks: bring enough, especially in summer: at least one liter of water per hour of cycling.
  • Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses and helmet are important.
  • Navigation: Use a map or GPS; not all trails are well marked.
  • Breakdown on the road: in the event of a flat tire, know that there are bicycle repair shops in almost every village.
  • Accueil Vélo: accommodations with this label are equipped for cyclists, with storage, repair kits and maps of the routes.

Cycling in other regions

Other tourist regions of France are also suitable for cycling. Read our inspiration page Cycling in Poitou-Charentes. You can also enjoy beautiful bike rides in the Dordogne through the Dordogne Valley, while the Lot region's cycle paths meander through vineyards.

  

After cycling: relax in your holiday home in Provence

After a day full winding roads, sunshine and scents, it's wonderful to come home to a holiday home in the South of France. Whether you opt to stay in a cozy holiday park near the Mediterranean Sea or a luxury villa with sea views on the Côte d'Azur, the peace and comfort make the day complete. A glass of rosé, crickets chirping in the background and planning your next cycling trip: that's what a holiday in Provence is all about.

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