The best cycling routes around Aiguines

There are over 200 touring cycling routes around Aiguines. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from moderate loops to challenging, long-distance rides with significant elevation gain, catering to various skill levels.

Touring cycling in Aiguines is characterized by significant elevation changes and varied terrain. You'll encounter dramatic limestone cliffs, the turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix, and forested hills. Routes range from moderate, like the Lake Sainte-Croix – View of Moustiers-Saint-Marie loop from Les Salles-sur-Verdon (28.9 km), to difficult, with 126 routes falling into this category, often featuring challenging climbs and descents.

While many routes in Aiguines involve significant elevation, there are options suitable for families looking for a less strenuous ride. You can find 27 easy routes and 57 moderate routes, which may include flatter sections around Lac de Sainte-Croix or through less hilly parts of the Verdon Regional Natural Park. Always check the route profile for elevation before heading out with family.

The region is ideal for touring cycling during spring and autumn when temperatures are milder. Summers can be hot, especially in the gorges, but the presence of Lac de Sainte-Croix offers opportunities for cooling off. Winters can see some roads, like the 'Route des Crêtes', closed, so it's best to check local conditions if planning a winter trip.

Aiguines offers breathtaking panoramic views. You can expect vistas across Lac de Sainte-Croix, the Valensole plateau, and the dramatic Gorges du Verdon. Notable landmarks include the Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix, the Pont d'Estellié, and the View of the Verdon Gorge from the Blanc-Martel trail. The village itself, with the imposing Aiguines Castle and Chapel Saint-Pierre, also offers stunning views.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Aiguines are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Lake Sainte-Croix – View of Lac de Sainte-Croix loop from Réserve naturelle de Saint-Maurin is a popular 46.4 km circular route offering extensive lake views.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. Cyclists often praise the dramatic landscapes, the stunning turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that offer unparalleled panoramic views of the Verdon Regional Natural Park.

Absolutely. Lac de Sainte-Croix, a prominent feature of the region, offers numerous opportunities for water-based activities. You can find beaches like Galetas and Chabassole for swimming, or rent pedal boats, paddleboards, or kayaks to explore the lake and the entrance of the gorges. These spots are easily accessible from many cycling routes that skirt the lake.

Aiguines and surrounding villages like Les Salles-sur-Verdon often have designated parking areas. For routes starting near Lac de Sainte-Croix, you can typically find parking close to the lake's access points or beaches. It's advisable to check specific starting points for available parking facilities before your trip.

Yes, Aiguines is known for its challenging routes with significant elevation gain. For instance, the Lake Sainte-Croix – View of Lac de Sainte-Croix loop from Les Salles-sur-Verdon is a difficult 110.9 km path with over 3200 meters of elevation, offering panoramic vistas over the lake and the dramatic Gorges du Verdon. Many routes utilize roads high on the cliffs, providing vertiginous balconies over the Verdon.

After your ride, you can explore the charming village of Aiguines. Visit the imposing Aiguines Castle with its colorful glazed tile roofs, the 17th-century Saint-Jean Parish Church, or the Chapel Saint-Pierre for magnificent views. The Woodturning Museum also showcases the village's unique heritage in crafting boxwood objects.

Definitely. The Aiguines area, nestled within the Verdon Regional Natural Park, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Besides cycling, you can enjoy hiking on trails like the famous Blanc-Martel, water sports on Lac de Sainte-Croix (swimming, pedal boating, kayaking), or adventure sports such as climbing, paragliding, and canyoning in the Gorges du Verdon.