Lavender Roads & Verdon Gorges Adventure

Arrive on your own at La Palud-sur-Verdon, located between Castellane and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, in the heart of the Verdon region. This charming village is a popular base for climbing enthusiasts and offers a warm, authentic atmosphere with its local bars and restaurants. The “Château de La Palud” houses the Maison des Gorges du Verdon, an eco-museum that highlights the natural beauty of the gorges. Between 7:30 and 8:00 PM, you'll meet with the bike representative for the delivery of your bikes at your hotel.

In the morning, you’ll begin your ride on the spectacular 24 km “Crest Road” loop starting from La Palud-sur-Verdon. This panoramic route takes you along the gorges at altitudes of up to 700 meters, where you’ll discover 14 belvederes offering breathtaking views of the Verdon cliffs and the Grand Canyon. As you pedal, keep an eye out for local wildlife like vultures, chamois, and foxes.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Point Sublime, one of the most impressive viewpoints in the gorges. You can also take an optional detour, cycling 4 km followed by a 20-30 minute walk to the entrance of the “Couloir Samson,” a rock-carved tunnel offering two windows with stunning views of the canyon. Afterward, you will continue on to the village of Trigance, nestled at 800 meters above sea level. This charming Provencal village, with its medieval castle and stone houses, offers a perfect glimpse into the region’s history and beauty.

In the morning, prepare for the most physically challenging day of your tour with a spectacular ride along the iconic “Corniche Sublime” road on the left bank of the Verdon Gorge. This route is both breathtaking and demanding, featuring intense climbs, including a steep 8 km ascent with sections over 12% climb. As you navigate the challenging terrain, you'll pass awe-inspiring structures like the Artuby Bridge and Fayet Tunnel, which seem to defy gravity in this dramatic landscape.

After conquering the climbs, enjoy a long descent down a winding road to the picturesque village of Aiguines, perched on the mountainside. From the Saint-Pierre chapel, you can take in sweeping views of Lac de Sainte-Croix, the Valensole plateau, and even Mont Ventoux. In summer, you can cool off and swim on the little beaches beside the lake! Optionally, at the Galetas Bridge, you can take a break and rent a kayak or pedalo to explore the entrance of the gorges.

Afterward, cycle to the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of France’s most beautiful villages, nestled into the cliffs beneath the Notre-Dame de Beauvoir chapel. This quintessential Provencal village offers stunning views and a picturesque setting that will leave a lasting impression.

Cycle through the Verdon hinterland, known for its lavender fields, toward Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, situated on the shores of Sainte-Croix Lake. This route is filled with colors and scents, taking you through Provence's traditional landscapes, including honey, olive oil, lavandin, and truffle producers. For a shorter ride, you can directly head to Sainte-Croix village, passing by lavender and honey farms along the way.

Alternatively, take the longer route, which begins in the historical Roman city of Riez. Pedal along mountain roads surrounded by oak, pine, and cedar forests as you climb to the lavender-covered Valensole Plateau, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise lake and the Verdon massif. After descending into Sainte-Croix village, enjoy its charming coves and small beaches, perfect for a picnic or a swim in the lake. Finish the day by climbing back up through the lavender fields and descending toward Moustiers.

After breakfast, your cycling adventure comes to an end.