The best gravel rides around Banon

The gravel biking trails around Banon are generally considered challenging. All five routes listed in our guide are rated as difficult, featuring significant elevation changes and varied terrain. For example, the Baou Roman Bridge – Cycle path in Apt loop from Vachères covers 38.5 miles with over 1000 meters of elevation gain.

Banon benefits from a dry climate and abundant sunshine, with around 300 sunny days per year. The lavender fields, a prominent feature of the region, typically bloom from late June to early August, offering a particularly scenic experience. This period, extending into mid-August due to the high altitude, is ideal for enjoying the fragrant purple landscapes.

You'll encounter a diverse range of landscapes, from vibrant lavender fields and grain plains to oak forests. The terrain is characterized by rocky gravel, typical of the Provence region. Routes often offer panoramic views, especially those traversing the Albion plateau between the Lure and Ventoux mountains. You might also pass through charming perched villages and rugged gorges, such as those found on the Oppedette – Gorges d'Oppedette loop from Sainte-Croix-à-Lauze.

Yes, the region is rich in natural and historical attractions. You can explore the dramatic Oppedette Gorge, or discover unique geological formations like The Mourres Rocks. The village of Banon itself is a medieval fortified site with a 14th-century gate and historic streets. The ruins of the Prieuré de Carluc, where monks once cultivated lavender, are also nearby.

Given the rugged and rocky gravel surfaces prevalent in Provence, it is advisable to use wider gravel tires, typically over 40mm, and maintain relatively low pressure. This setup will provide better grip, comfort, and control on the varied terrain.

While the routes in our guide are rated as difficult, the broader Mont Ventoux area, which Banon is close to, offers a range of gravel routes. Some of these are described as suitable for all skill levels, though they might involve mostly paved surfaces. For families, it's best to research specific sections that are known to be less technical or have gentler gradients, as the listed Banon routes are quite challenging.

Yes, all the gravel bike routes featured in our guide around Banon are designed as loops. This allows you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics simpler. Examples include the Banon – View of Banon and Surroundings loop from Banon and the Revest-du-Bion – Revest-du-Bion Village loop from Revest-du-Bion.

Banon is strategically located on the Albion plateau, nestled between the Lure and Ventoux mountains. This proximity places it in an excellent position to access the wider Mont Ventoux area, which is renowned for its diverse gravel biking opportunities. You can find routes ranging from vineyards to pine forests, with some even offering alternative gravel paths to climb Mont Ventoux itself.

After a day of cycling, Banon offers unique cultural and culinary experiences. The village is famous for its AOP goat cheese, traditionally wrapped in chestnut leaves. You can also visit Le Bleuet, reportedly the largest independent bookshop in rural France, boasting over 110,000 titles, perfect for unwinding.

Our guide features 5 distinct gravel bike trails around Banon, all of which are rated as difficult. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevation profiles, providing ample choice for experienced gravel bikers.

The gravel biking routes in Banon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, and the unique experience of riding through lavender fields and oak forests.

Yes, there are options for longer rides. The longest route in our guide is the Baou Roman Bridge – Cycle path in Apt loop from Vachères, which spans 38.5 miles (62.0 km) and involves over 1000 meters of climbing, making it a substantial day out for gravel enthusiasts.