The best gravel rides around Aups

Gravel biking around Aups primarily features routes of moderate to difficult intensity. Out of the 23 available tours, 7 are classified as moderate and 16 as difficult, indicating a landscape with significant climbs and descents.

While the majority of gravel routes around Aups are rated moderate to difficult, there are no trails specifically classified as 'easy' in our current selection. Beginners with good fitness might find some of the moderate routes manageable, but should be prepared for varied terrain and elevation changes.

For a challenging ride, consider the View of Cotignac – Cotignac loop from Cotignac. This difficult 28.7 km route features nearly 500 meters of elevation gain, offering a demanding experience through the Provençal landscape.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the Aups area are circular. For instance, the Table du village perché – Tourtour loop from Tourtour is a challenging 33 km circular route that takes you through hilly terrain and past the picturesque village of Tourtour.

The region offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. You might encounter stunning views of the Verdon region, charming Provençal villages, and even waterfalls. A notable natural attraction is the Waterfall — Cascade de Sillans, while historical sites include the Historic Centre of Aups and Entrecasteaux Castle.

The best seasons for gravel biking around Aups are typically spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with less intense heat than summer and fewer rainy days than winter, making for ideal riding conditions.

Summers in Aups (July and August) are often hot and dry, with temperatures frequently exceeding 30°C. While riding is possible, it's advisable to start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat, carry plenty of water, and be aware of potential fire restrictions in forested areas.

Gravel biking in Aups during winter (November to March) is generally possible, as the climate is relatively mild compared to more northern regions. However, you should be prepared for cooler temperatures, occasional rain, and potentially muddy sections on unpaved trails, especially after heavy rainfall.

Many gravel routes around Aups pass through or near charming Provençal villages like Tourtour or Cotignac. These villages typically offer cafes, bakeries, and small shops where you can refuel with snacks, drinks, or a light meal. It's always a good idea to check village opening hours, especially in smaller hamlets.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Aups, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 9 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the scenic villages, and the quiet woodlands that characterize the region's routes.

While most routes are day trips, some gravel tours around Aups offer substantial distances. For example, the Cotignac – Correns loop from Cotignac covers 42.8 km, providing a longer ride through the scenic countryside between two notable Provençal villages.

Both Aups and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie offer excellent gravel biking opportunities in the Verdon region. Aups provides a diverse network of routes through rolling hills and woodlands, often with views towards the Verdon. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, being closer to the Gorges du Verdon and Lac de Sainte-Croix, might offer more direct access to routes with dramatic canyon views and lakeside sections, though both areas share similar challenging terrain characteristics.