The best cycling routes around Verdon

The Verdon region offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 150 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails.

The Verdon region is characterized by its diverse topography. You can expect majestic gorges, sparkling lakes like Lac de Sainte-Croix, and verdant hills. Routes often traverse areas with extensive lavender fields, particularly on the Plateau de Valensole, and charming Provençal villages. The dramatic limestone cliffs of the Gorges du Verdon and the distinctive turquoise-green Verdon River are prominent features.

Yes, Verdon offers several touring cycling routes suitable for beginners and families. There are 25 easy routes available, providing more gentle rides alongside lakes and through less challenging terrain. For example, the Dordogne Riverside Cycle Path – The Dordogne loop from Mouleydier is an easy 17.2-mile path offering pleasant riverside scenery.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Verdon provides 42 difficult routes. These often include significant elevation changes and demanding gradients, especially along the rim of the Gorges du Verdon or over mountain passes. The Historic Canal Lock System – V91 jolie voie verte loop from Saint-Capraise-de-Lalinde is a difficult 58.6-mile trail that follows a historic canal system.

Touring cycling in Verdon allows you to experience breathtaking natural features. The most prominent is the Gorges du Verdon, with its towering white limestone cliffs and the distinctive turquoise-green river. You'll also encounter the serene waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix, the fragrant lavender fields of the Plateau de Valensole, and various verdant hills and valleys.

Yes, many touring cycling routes pass through or near charming Provençal villages and significant landmarks. You might encounter picturesque villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Castellane, Trigance, and Aiguines. Notable man-made attractions include the Tuilières locks on the Lalinde Canal, the Tuilières Dam, and the historic Château de Monbazillac.

The Verdon region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 320 reviews. Touring cyclists often praise the region's diverse terrain, from challenging climbs with spectacular canyon views to more gentle rides alongside beautiful lakes. The opportunity to explore charming villages and experience the unique natural beauty of the Gorges du Verdon is frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Verdon region offers numerous circular touring cycling routes, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. Many routes, such as the Historic Canal Lock System – V91 jolie voie verte loop from Mouleydier, are designed as loops, providing convenient options for exploration.

The best time for touring cycling in Verdon is generally from spring to autumn. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while summer is ideal for combining cycling with water activities on the lakes. Early autumn provides cooler weather and beautiful fall colors. If you wish to see the famous lavender fields in full bloom, plan your visit for late June to mid-July.

While the Verdon region is best explored by car for flexibility, some villages and towns that serve as starting points for routes may be accessible by regional bus services. However, public transport options can be limited, especially for reaching specific trailheads within the gorges. It's advisable to check local transport schedules in advance if you plan to rely on it.

Parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as common starting points for touring cycling routes, such as Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Castellane, and La Palud-sur-Verdon. Many popular viewpoints along routes like the Route des Crêtes also have designated parking areas. It's recommended to arrive early during peak season to secure a spot.

Yes, several routes provide stunning views that encompass both the dramatic gorges and the serene lakes. The area around Lac de Sainte-Croix often offers vistas where the turquoise waters meet the rugged canyon entrance, particularly near the Pont du Galetas. Cycling routes that encircle the lake or connect it to the higher sections of the gorges will provide these panoramic experiences.