The best cycling routes around La Croix-Sur-Roudoule
4.7
(79)
2,846
riders
83
rides
Touring cycling around La Croix-Sur-Roudoule features routes through mountainous terrain in the Alpes-Maritimes department of southeastern France. The region is characterized by the Roudoule river carving deep gorges, with altitudes ranging from 485 meters to over 1,700 meters. The village itself is situated on a promontory at 800 meters, overlooking the Var Valley and offering varied landscapes for cycling.
Best touring cycling routes around La Croix-Sur-Roudoule
- The most popular touring cycling route is Col de Saint-Raphaël (876 m) – Roquestéron…
Last updated: June 25, 2026
86
riders
88.3km
06:23
1,910m
1,910m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
64
riders
131km
09:19
2,590m
2,590m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
22
riders
44.9km
03:10
870m
870m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
22
riders
105km
07:29
2,080m
2,080m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
46.4km
03:24
960m
960m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Col de la Couillole is a mountain pass in the Massif du Mercantour-Argentera of the French Alps, situated at an altitude of 1,678 m (5,505 ft) in the Alpes-Maritimes department, France. The road connection is open for six to seven months of the year, allowing travel between the Cians gorges in the west and the Tinée valley in the east.
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The Col des Champs is a mountain pass with an altitude of 2,087 meters and connects Haute-Provence with the Alpes-Maritimes, all within the Mercantour National Park. The pass is part of the so-called Route des Trois Cols, an interesting circular route with three passes above 2,000 meters. This route connects the Col d'Allos with the Col de la Cayolle via this pass, thus linking the Allos Valley (Haute-Verdon) with the Var Valley. Its two slopes share the ruggedness of a major Alpine pass.
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village of ascros hanging on a rock, frankly I recommend you go there by bike, it's magical and magnificent as a place
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An absolutely worthwhile detour if you are driving the Route des grandes Alpes.
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A spectacular passage, this bridge that connects the two mountains is stunning.
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The La Mariée bridge was built from 1910 for the passage of the tramway that linked Pont de Geydan and Guillaumes. The construction site gave rise to technical feats in the Daluis gorges with the digging of tunnels and the construction of this spectacular bridge with a span of 58 meters. The line, 19 km long, took the same route as the current road. The work brought life to the valley but caused many victims, as evidenced by the commemorative plaques along the track. They were slowed down during the war of 1914-1918 and the tramway did not arrive in Guillaumes until 1923, but the line, with its costly maintenance, only operated for 6 years before its final shutdown in 1929. This structure is one of the first railway viaducts in an arch made of reinforced concrete in France. It owes its name to a tragic incident that occurred on July 30, 1927. A young, wealthy Parisian couple arrived on their honeymoon in Guillaumes and decided to visit the gorges at the end of the day. They stopped at the first bridge they came across on the road, then called the Tramway Bridge. The young bride is said to have leaned over to admire the view and fell into the gorges. In the absence of witnesses, the accident theory was favored, but the mysterious circumstances surrounding the young woman's disappearance have long fueled rumors. Closed to motor traffic, it now offers one of the best viewpoints over the Daluis gorges. So don't hesitate to stop there to enjoy it. With a bit of luck, you might also see daredevils bungee jumping there. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BxJ1N6wYt_o
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around La Croix-Sur-Roudoule?
There are over 70 touring cycling routes in the La Croix-Sur-Roudoule area. The majority, 57 routes, are classified as difficult, with 12 moderate and 2 easy options, catering to a range of experience levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near La Croix-Sur-Roudoule?
The terrain is predominantly mountainous, characterized by deep river gorges carved by the Roudoule river, high mountain passes, and views over the Var Valley. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, with altitudes ranging from 485 meters to over 1,700 meters, offering challenging ascents and rewarding descents.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the challenging Col de Saint-Raphaël (876 m) loop from Entrevaux - Plan de Puget les Vergers is a 23.1 km circular route with over 500 meters of elevation gain. Another option is the longer Col de Saint-Raphaël – Col de Saint-Raphaël (876 m) loop from Entrevaux - Plan de Puget les Vergers, covering 40.8 km.
What are some notable natural landmarks or viewpoints along the cycling routes?
The region offers breathtaking natural sights. You can experience the dramatic Gorges de Daluis and the Gorges du Cians. The Sublime Point offers panoramic views, and the Col du Raton is a significant mountain pass. The D16 road leading to La Croix-sur-Roudoule itself provides impressive views of the Roudoule Gorge.
What historical sites can I explore while cycling in La Croix-Sur-Roudoule?
The village of La Croix-sur-Roudoule is perched on a rocky spur and retains its medieval charm, including defensive walls and a fortified gateway. You can visit the 13th-century Romanesque nave of the Saint-Michel church and the 16th-century Chapel of Notre Dame du Rosaire. The nearby village of Entrevaux, visible from the View of Entrevaux highlight, also boasts significant historical fortifications.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the area?
While the majority of routes are difficult, there are 2 easy touring cycling routes available. These routes would be more suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride, allowing enjoyment of the scenery without the intense climbs of the more challenging mountain passes.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in La Croix-Sur-Roudoule?
The Alpes-Maritimes department, where La Croix-sur-Roudoule is located, benefits from a Mediterranean climate. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for cycling, avoiding the peak heat of summer and the potential for snow at higher altitudes in winter. However, the region's varied elevation means conditions can change, so checking local forecasts is always recommended.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in La Croix-Sur-Roudoule?
The touring cycling routes in La Croix-Sur-Roudoule are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.88 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging mountain landscapes, the dramatic gorges, and the rewarding views, making it a popular destination for those seeking an adventurous ride.
Is there public transport access to the touring cycling trails?
While specific public transport details for reaching trailheads directly are not provided, the D16 road leading to La Croix-sur-Roudoule from Puget-Théniers is a key access point. Puget-Théniers itself may offer connections to regional transport networks, which cyclists can use to get closer to the starting points of routes.
Where can I find parking for my bike near the trails?
The village of La Croix-sur-Roudoule, situated on a promontory, serves as a central point. Parking facilities are typically available within or near the village, providing convenient access to the local road network that connects to various touring cycling routes. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check individual route descriptions for designated parking areas.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a significant challenge, the View of Roubion – Col de la Couillole (1,678 m) loop from Puget-Théniers is an excellent choice. This difficult route spans 105.3 km with over 2,000 meters of elevation gain, taking approximately 7 hours 29 minutes to complete and leading through high mountain passes.
Can I find cafes or accommodation in La Croix-Sur-Roudoule?
La Croix-sur-Roudoule is a small medieval village, and while specific establishments are not detailed, it's common for such villages in popular outdoor regions to offer basic amenities like cafes or small guesthouses. For a wider range of options, nearby larger towns or villages in the Var Valley would provide more choices for dining and accommodation.
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