The best cycling routes around Saint-Auban

Saint-Auban offers a diverse range of touring cycling routes characterized by limestone mountains, dramatic gorges, and scenic river valleys. You'll find challenging mountain passes, such as Col de Pinpinier, alongside routes that follow the Estéron River through picturesque canyons and traditional Provençal villages. The region is known for its quiet, unspoiled county roads, making for a pleasant cycling experience.

While many routes in Saint-Auban feature significant elevation gain and are rated as difficult, there are a few easier options available. Out of over 50 touring cycling routes, 3 are classified as easy, providing a good starting point for those new to the area or looking for a more relaxed ride.

The Saint-Auban area is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle through dramatic landscapes like the Clue de Gréolières Scenic Road, known for its valley views, or the Clue d'Aiglun, which traverses stunning gorges. Mountain passes like Col de Pinpinier offer rewarding vistas. The Estéron River valley itself is a prominent feature with its 'vertiginous canyons and turquoise waters'.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Saint-Auban are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Castillon Dam – Castellane loop from Briançonnet is a popular option, covering 41.6 miles (67.0 km) through varied mountain terrain.

The touring cycling routes around Saint-Auban are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, the stunning views of the Verdon region, and the unique experience of riding through scenic roads and gorges.

For breathtaking views of the Verdon region, consider the Castillon Dam – View of the Verdon loop from Saint-Auban. This difficult 35.3-mile (56.7 km) path provides challenging climbs and expansive vistas of this iconic natural area.

Absolutely. The region is known for its mountain passes. The Castellaras Pass – Clue de Gréolières loop from Le Plan de la Barraque is a great choice, taking you over the Castellaras Pass and through scenic roads and gorges.

The region's diverse landscapes, including mountain passes and river valleys, suggest that spring and autumn are ideal for touring cycling. During these seasons, temperatures are generally milder, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant, making for a more comfortable and enjoyable ride. Summer can be hot, especially in the valleys, while winter might bring snow to higher passes.

Yes, the Estéron River is a central feature of the region. The Estéron Valley – St Auban Gorge loop from Saint-Auban is an excellent route that allows you to immerse yourself in the valley's dramatic canyons and picturesque surroundings.

Yes, the region features charming small lakes and forests. The Lake Thorenc – Andon loop from Le Plan de la Barraque is an example of a route that takes you through areas with lakes and green plains, offering serene and picturesque settings.

Touring cycling in Saint-Auban is generally considered challenging. Out of 52 available routes, 38 are rated as difficult, 11 as moderate, and only 3 as easy. This indicates that the area is particularly well-suited for experienced cyclists seeking significant climbs and demanding terrain.