The best cycling routes around Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon

There are nearly 30 touring cycling routes in the Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon area. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easier rides to challenging excursions with significant elevation gain.

The ideal periods for touring cycling in Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon are from March to June and from September to mid-November. During these months, you'll experience mild temperatures and moderate crowds, making for a more enjoyable ride through the region's stunning landscapes.

The Verdon region offers a varied terrain for touring cyclists. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads, some of which can be challenging with significant climbs, especially around the Gorges du Verdon. Routes also traverse wooded hills, limestone plateaus, and open fields, particularly on the Valensole Plateau. While mostly paved, be prepared for some segments that might be unpaved or more difficult.

Yes, while many routes offer significant challenges, there are easier sections around Lac de Sainte-Croix suitable for families. These routes provide panoramic views of the lake's distinctive turquoise waters without excessive difficulty. For a moderate option, consider the Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon – Coastal viewpoint loop from Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, which covers 31 kilometers with manageable elevation.

Touring cycling routes in Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon offer access to spectacular natural features and charming landmarks. You'll cycle alongside the stunning turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix and experience breathtaking views of the Gorges du Verdon. The Verdon Gorge to Lake Sainte-Croix is a particularly notable highlight. Additionally, you might pass through the famous lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau (seasonal) and catch glimpses of the charming old village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon itself, perched above the lake.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular example is the Sainte-Croix bridge – Lake Sainte-Croix loop from Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, which offers panoramic views over 51 kilometers. Another option is the challenging Sainte-Croix bridge – View of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon loop from Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, a 71.8 km route through the Verdon Regional Nature Park.

The touring cycling routes around Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon cater to various skill levels. Out of nearly 30 routes, there are 7 easy, 10 moderate, and 12 difficult options. Difficult routes, such as the Baudinard-sur-Verdon – Sainte-Croix bridge loop from Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, often feature significant elevation gains, sometimes exceeding 900 meters, and navigate hilly terrain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 140 reviews. Reviewers often praise the stunning turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix, the dramatic landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon, and the diverse terrain that offers both scenic, leisurely rides and challenging climbs.

Absolutely. The region is rich with scenic viewpoints. Cycling routes often provide panoramic views of Lac de Sainte-Croix and the Gorges du Verdon. The village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon itself, perched on a promontory, offers magnificent views from its belvederes. The Coastal viewpoint – View of Moustiers-Saint-Marie loop from Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is a route specifically designed to take you past notable scenic spots, including views towards the beautiful village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Yes, Sainte-Croix-Du-Verdon is an excellent base for combining touring cycling with other outdoor pursuits. The clear, calm waters of Lac de Sainte-Croix are perfect for swimming, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and pedal boating. The Gorges du Verdon also offer opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and canyoning. The Pont du Galetas, where the Verdon River flows into the lake, is a popular starting point for water activities.

When cycling around Lac de Sainte-Croix and the Gorges du Verdon, be mindful that you will share the roads with other users, including cars, motorhomes, and motorbikes. While the scenery is captivating, it's important to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially on narrower or winding sections of the road.

Yes, some touring cycling routes extend onto the Valensole Plateau, which is renowned for its vast fields of lavender. If you visit between mid-June and mid-August, you can experience these iconic Provençal vistas in full bloom. These routes offer a unique opportunity to cycle through fragrant fields of lavender, wheat, and honey.