The best cycling routes around Vars

Touring cycling around Vars is defined by its impressive mountain landscapes and challenging alpine terrain. You'll encounter continuous climbs and descents, rewarding you with panoramic views. Routes often follow natural features like the Ubaye river, providing diverse visual experiences within a remote and naturally beautiful environment.

There are over 20 touring cycling routes recorded in Vars on komoot. The majority of these, 19 to be exact, are classified as difficult, with 3 moderate options also available for those seeking a slightly less strenuous ride.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Cyclists can experience the iconic Col de Vars, known for its breathtaking scenery and sense of seclusion. Other notable features include the Gorges du Guil and the serene Mirror Lake. The routes often follow river valleys, such as the Ubaye river, adding to the diverse visual experience.

Yes, Vars offers several circular touring cycling routes. A popular option is the Col de Vars – View of Fort de Tournoux loop from Les-Claux, which is a challenging 69.8 km ride. Another is the Lake Peyrol – Vars loop from Les-Claux, covering 27.7 km.

The touring cycling routes in Vars are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the challenging yet rewarding climbs, the stunning panoramic views, and the sense of remote natural beauty found along the trails.

Given the region's alpine nature and the presence of high mountain passes like the Col de Vars, the best time for touring cycling is typically during the warmer months, from late spring through early autumn. This period offers more favorable weather conditions and ensures that higher elevation passes are clear of snow.

Vars is renowned for its challenging routes. For experienced riders, the Col de Vars (2,109 m) – Cayolle Pass loop from La Charpenterie is a difficult 128.7 km path that traverses significant mountain passes, providing extensive panoramic vistas and a substantial physical test.

While many routes are long and challenging, there are shorter options available. For instance, the Col de Vars (2,109 m) – Lac Napoléon loop from Vars is a difficult route that covers approximately 15.4 km, offering a taste of the alpine environment without committing to a full-day ride.

The Col de Vars is a significant draw for touring cyclists, often listed among the 100 greatest climbs of the Tour de France. It offers breathtaking scenery and a feeling of seclusion, with relatively few cars. The southern approach from Les Gleizolles is particularly noted for its scenic beauty and gradual ascent along the Ubaye river.

Yes, several routes integrate the Col de Vars with other beautiful locations. The Lac Napoléon – Col de Vars loop from Vars is a challenging 55.3 km route that allows you to experience both the iconic pass and the serene Lac Napoléon.