The best cycling routes around Saint-Raphaël
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Touring cycling around Saint-Raphaël offers diverse landscapes, from the vibrant red volcanic rocks of the Esterel Massif to 36 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline. The region features varied terrain, including coastal paths, forested areas, and the more rural Var hinterland. These natural features provide a range of cycling experiences, from scenic coastal rides to more challenging routes through the mountains.
Best touring cycling routes around Saint-Raphaël
- The most popular touring cycling route is Around Hautefort Castle, a 16.2 miles (26.0…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
5.0
(3)
5
riders
26.0km
01:53
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
5
riders
73.1km
04:55
1,190m
1,180m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
126km
08:22
1,820m
1,810m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
9
riders
58.1km
04:03
1,030m
1,030m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
15.7km
01:02
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Hautefort Castle was built between the late 16th and late 17th centuries on the remains of an ancient medieval fortress. Its architecture is clearly reminiscent of the Loire Valley châteaux, with a classical style combining elegance and defensive elements, including crenellated towers and a large quadrangle. The Marquis Jacques-François de Hautefort, a great builder, carried out a significant transformation to create a refined residence with galleries, a chapel, and rich interior decoration. The castle is surrounded by magnificent French gardens designed in the 19th century by the Count of Choulot. It survived the Revolution thanks to the defense of the inhabitants and was restored after a fire in the 20th century.
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The Excideuil hospital building, designed in reinforced concrete, is a hospital complex built from 1937, with an interruption during the war, then resumed in 1949. It comprises several buildings including a main hospital in the shape of a comb with a curved plan, with seven levels adapted to the slope of the land, allowing differentiated entrances. The architecture strictly separates the services by floor (medicine, surgery, children, etc.) with rooms open on the south facade to let in light. The building also has a central glass rotunda housing the reception hall and operating rooms, as well as an administrative building with a clock tower. The complex is located in a large sloping park overlooking the town of Excideuil
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Hautefort Castle is one of the few surviving examples of classical architecture in southwest France. Situated on a rocky spur overlooking the village of Hautefort, it offers a majestic silhouette that is more reminiscent of the Loire Valley châteaux than the region's typical medieval fortresses.
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A very beautiful, small village. Ideal for a short rest.
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The village and the Château de Hautefort are worth a little detour on the Flow Vélo route. At lunchtime, you can buy delicious cooked dishes at the butcher's shop "Levy" on rue Bertrand de Born and enjoy them in a small shaded square a few steps away on rue Bertrand Artigue.
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small hospitable village for cyclists. at the intersection of the Flow Vélo, Isle valley bike route and towards the Vezere valley. municipal campsite and small shops.
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One of the few fountains along the way.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Saint-Raphaël?
There are over 75 touring cycling routes around Saint-Raphaël, offering a wide range of experiences from coastal paths to routes through the Esterel Massif and the Var hinterland.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Saint-Raphaël?
The routes cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 36 moderate routes, and 41 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and experienced touring cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Saint-Raphaël?
While many routes offer varied terrain, the region's 12-kilometer Coastal Path (Sentier du Littoral) is generally accessible to all and provides beautiful views of the Mediterranean and the Esterel Massif, making it a good option for families. For specific routes, look for those marked as 'easy' or 'moderate' in the komoot guide.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling around Saint-Raphaël?
Saint-Raphaël offers incredibly diverse landscapes. You can cycle along 36 kilometers of Mediterranean coastline with coves and beaches, through the striking red volcanic rocks of the Esterel Massif, or explore the forested areas and charming Provençal villages of the Var hinterland.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes around Saint-Raphaël are designed as loops. For example, the Hautefort – Hautefort Castle loop from Ancienne gare is a moderate 16.8 km circular path, and the longer Hautefort – Hautefort Castle loop from Tourtoirac covers 107.4 km.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks to look out for on a touring cycling trip?
The Esterel Massif offers breathtaking panoramas, with notable spots like Pic de l'Ours and Cap Dramont. Along the coast, the Île d'Or is an emblematic sight. You might also encounter historical sites such as Château de Hautefort and Gardens or the Hautefort Museum of Medical History.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Saint-Raphaël?
The touring cycling routes around Saint-Raphaël are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 46 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain and the stunning coastal and mountain scenery.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes near Saint-Raphaël?
For those seeking longer rides, routes like the La Loue / Coulaures – Hautefort Castle loop from Tourtoirac offer a significant challenge, covering 125.8 km with substantial elevation gain. Another option is the Corgnac-sur-l'Isle – Kirche Notre Dame loop from Excideuil, which is 56.9 km long.
What is the Corniche d'Or and is it suitable for touring cycling?
The Corniche d'Or is a legendary coastal road along the Esterel Massif, renowned for its magnificent views. While it presents no major technical difficulties, its length and potential climbs make it more recommended for seasoned riders. It's considered one of the most beautiful courses on the French Riviera.
Can I find routes that combine coastal views with mountain scenery?
Absolutely. Saint-Raphaël is uniquely positioned where the Esterel Massif meets the Mediterranean Sea. Many routes, especially those along the Corniche d'Or or the Coastal Path, offer continuous views of both the sea and the dramatic red rocks of the Massif. The Around Hautefort Castle route, for example, features varied terrain and elevation changes that showcase the region's diverse natural beauty.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes for beginners?
Yes, there is 1 easy touring cycling route available. Additionally, the 12-kilometer Coastal Path (Sentier du Littoral) is generally accessible and offers a gentle ride with beautiful Mediterranean views, suitable for those new to touring cycling or looking for a relaxed experience.
What other outdoor activities can be combined with touring cycling in Saint-Raphaël?
Saint-Raphaël's natural environment is perfect for various outdoor pursuits. Beyond cycling, you can enjoy hiking, trail running, horseback riding, and a wide range of water sports along the Mediterranean coastline.
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