The best road cycling routes around Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume
4.5
(87)
2,412
riders
43
rides
Road cycling around Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume features a diverse landscape, characterized by the Massif de la Sainte-Baume and Mont Aurélien. The region offers varied terrain, from challenging ascents through ancient forests to routes across the rolling hills of Provence Verte. This area provides numerous cycling opportunities suitable for different skill levels.
Best road cycling routes around Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume
- The most popular road cycling route is Loop around St.Maximin and Tourves, a 16.7 miles (26.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 14 minutes…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.0
(5)
56
riders
26.9km
01:14
250m
260m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(43)
1,067
riders
89.4km
04:16
1,270m
1,270m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.8
(5)
205
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
133
riders
88.0km
03:45
710m
710m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(6)
89
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
A superb road clinging to the hillside between rocks and vineyards, offering sweeping views across the plain. The surface has been almost entirely redone... it's like a billiard table!
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Great descent in a very beautiful setting!
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From the east, the Col des Portes is very gentle, with the gradient barely noticeable. This makes the quiet, narrow road all the more enjoyable. From the west, the gradient is significantly steeper, especially in the final climb.
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It has been ridden several times in the Tour de France. The pass is regularly part of the Critérium du Dauphiné, an important preparation race for the Tour de France. From Grenoble, the climb offers over 1,000 meters of elevation in one go. The Col de Porte is a pass that is attractive to cyclists and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
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This tortuous serpent-like climb out of Nans-les-Pins is a little gruelling in parts but is well worth the effort. It is a wonderfully traffic-free, well paved climb through a rocky terrain with great vistas. At its end, I turned left towards Mazargues parallel to St Baume along a fast, newly resurfaced road, which is slightly undulating and again is free of traffic. This area in the shadow of St Baume seems to have it own micro climate with clouds seemingly just out of reach! I did a great loop starting in St Maximin.
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1
A lovely, slightly undulating, and recently resurfaced road (D95) skirting the North side of St Baume with very little traffic mid-week. The climb up from Nans-les-Pins is a delight!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume?
There are over 45 road cycling routes around Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists of all levels.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume?
September is a particularly popular month for cyclists in the region due to favorable weather conditions. Spring also offers interesting scenery, especially around Mont Aurélien.
What are the difficulty levels of road cycling routes in the region?
The routes in Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume cater to various skill levels. You'll find approximately 4 easy routes, 27 moderate routes, and 16 challenging routes, ensuring there's something for everyone.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, beginners can enjoy several easy routes. A great option is the Loop around St.Maximin and Tourves, an easy 26.9 km trail that traverses varied local scenery.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs?
For challenging rides, consider routes that traverse the Massif de la Sainte-Baume or Mont Aurélien. A notable moderate option with significant elevation is the Place de Verdun – Climb to Glacière Pivaut loop from Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, which features a 718m ascent over 53 km. The region also offers routes like 'La Sainte Baume à vélo - circuit 3' with a 690m elevation gain.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops. Examples include the popular Loop around St.Maximin and Tourves, the Colorful mosaic house – Rougiers loop from Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, and the Brue-Auriac – Bras loop from Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume.
Are there road cycling routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. The region is known for its breathtaking views. Routes through the Massif de la Sainte-Baume and Mont Aurélien often provide superb viewpoints. The Saint-Pilon Chapel, located at 994 meters altitude, offers a wide panoramic view stretching from Mont Aurélien and Sainte-Victoire to Marseille.
What natural attractions can I see along road cycling routes?
You can encounter several natural wonders. The Saint Mary Magdalene Grotto is a historical and spiritual site nestled within a century-old boxwood forest. You might also pass by the Source of the Huveaune or enjoy views of the Sainte-Baume Massif.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks accessible by road bike?
Yes, the region is rich in heritage. The Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine and the Royal Convent of the Dominicans in Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume are significant historical sites. You might also pass by the Saint-Probace Chapel or the Saint-Pilon Chapel on your rides.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging ascents through ancient forests to routes across the rolling hills of Provence Verte, and the variety of options for different ability levels.
Are there road cycling routes that pass through charming villages?
Yes, many routes wind through the picturesque Provence Verte region, offering views of local villages. For instance, the Colorful mosaic house – Rougiers loop from Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume passes through charming areas, and nearby Provencal villages like Rougiers, Pourcieux, and Nans-les-Pins are often part of longer rides.
Are there any routes that are particularly good for experiencing the Provence Verte region?
The Colorful mosaic house – Rougiers loop from Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume is an excellent moderate route that winds through the Provence Verte region, offering extensive views and a good sense of the local landscape.
Most popular routes around Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume
Most popular attractions around Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume
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