The best cycling routes around Valensole

There are nearly 40 touring cycling routes around Valensole, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes through the iconic lavender fields, along agricultural lands, and paths with views of the Prealps and the Verdon Canyon.

The best time to cycle through the lavender fields is from mid-June to mid-July when they are in full bloom, transforming the landscape into a vibrant purple sea. The region also benefits from over 300 days of sunshine a year, making it generally pleasant for cycling.

Yes, Valensole offers several routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are options for leisure cyclists. For example, the Lavender fields – Lavender Fields of Valensole loop from Valensole is a moderate 21.4 km trail that takes you directly through the heart of the lavender fields, perfect for a scenic and less strenuous ride.

The terrain around Valensole is varied. You'll find expansive plateaus at an average altitude of 500 meters, offering gentle paths through agricultural lands and gravel loops. There are also more challenging routes with significant elevation changes, especially those leading towards views of the Verdon Canyon or Lake Esparron.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Valensole are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An excellent example is the Plateau de Valensole by lavender fields - gravel loop - Haute-Provence Geological Nature Reserve, a moderate gravel loop that takes you through the iconic lavender fields.

Beyond the famous lavender fields, you can enjoy views of almond trees, durum wheat, and olive groves. Distant views of the Prealps, including Montagne de Lure and Mont-Ventoux, are common. Some routes offer spectacular vistas of the Verdon Canyon and Lake Sainte-Croix. You might also encounter highlights like the Valensole Plateau itself or the Pélicier State Forest.

Yes, the View of Lake Esparron – Lake Esparron-de-Verdon loop from Valensole is a challenging 44.4 km route specifically designed to provide scenic views of Lake Esparron-de-Verdon. You can also find the View of Lake Esparron highlight along some paths.

The charming village of Valensole offers its old town, the twelfth-century Church of Saint-Blaise, and local markets. You can also visit lavender distilleries like Terraroma Jaubert and Lavandes Angelvin to learn about local products. The picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is also nearby.

The touring cycling routes in Valensole are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 145 reviews. Cyclists often praise the expansive lavender fields, rolling plateaus, and the unique experience of riding through such a picturesque and fragrant landscape.

Absolutely. Valensole offers several difficult routes for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. For instance, the The Grand Fountain – View of Allemagne-en-Provence loop from Valensole is a difficult 34.5 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a rewarding ride through varied landscapes.

Yes, Valensole is known for its local products like lavender honey, almonds, and olive oil. Many routes pass by or are close to lavender distilleries and farms, offering opportunities to stop and learn about the region's agricultural heritage. The annual Lavender Festival in July is also a significant event that can be combined with a cycling trip.

Beyond the lavender fields, cyclists can often spot the dramatic cliffs of the Verdon Canyon and the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte-Croix in the distance. The region's distinct, clean light enhances the views of the surrounding natural amphitheater formed by the Prealps.