Lavender Roads & Verdon Gorges Adventure

Overview

The Lavender Roads & Verdon Gorges Adventure Tour takes you through one of France's most beautiful and rugged landscapes, with breathtaking views of the Verdon Gorges, Europe's largest canyon. You'll cycle along narrow, winding roads through dramatic limestone cliffs, stopping at scenic belvederes for panoramic views of the canyon below. The route also leads you to the stunning turquoise waters of Sainte Croix Lake, where you can swim or try water sports, all while exploring quaint Provencal villages like Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, renowned for its picturesque charm. Along the way, you'll pedal through the lush lavender fields of the Valensole plateau, a true symbol of Provence. This self-guided tour offers an immersive experience in the region’s rich culture, with opportunities to sample local honey, olive oil, and lavender products. The tour combines physical challenge with unparalleled natural beauty, making it a perfect adventure for those seeking a unique cycling journey through one of France's most iconic landscapes. Day 1: Arrival in La Palud-sur-Verdon. 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. Day 2: The spectacular 'crest road'. 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. Day 3: Views along the Corniche Sublime and Verdon Gorge. 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. Day 4: Cycling amongst lavender fields. 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. Day 5: Departure day. After breakfast, your cycling adventure comes to an end. 4 breakfasts are included. Accommodations for 4 nights are included. Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour. Excursions mentioned in the itinerary, Road Book with detailed walking itineraries, including highlighted maps, A road map of the region, 24/7 phone assistance are also included. Flights to and from France, Transport to La Palud / from Moustiers, Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned, Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired, Travel insurance, Entrance fees where applicable, Bike rental are not included. Optional Extras include Additional nights before or after the tour, Single occupancy upgrades, Optional activities or excursions, Electric bike rental - Cannondale or similar (helmet, lock, mobile phone holder, repair kit & pump, 2 x rear bags, Battery 600 watt - 90km autonomy, battery charger). This tour is based on bed and breakfast and hotels. All the rooms have a private bathroom and all the necessary services to ensure your best comfort. Single Rooms and Solo Travellers: Rooms are double occupancy. You can pay a supplement to have a private room in a hotel where possible. Supplement is required for groups of 3 or 5 travellers. Solo travellers may be required to pay a supplement. We rate this tour as a 4 / 5. This cycling tour through the Verdon Gorges and lavender fields presents a moderate challenge, with some demanding sections. The terrain includes winding mountain roads, significant elevation changes, and steep climbs, particularly on the 'Corniche Sublime' road, where gradients exceed 12%. While e-bikes make the journey more accessible, cyclists still need a good level of endurance. The tour is best suited for riders with some experience in hilly terrain, but it remains manageable for those prepared for a mix of effort and breathtaking rewards. Fly into Marseille, which is the closest major airport to La Palud-sur-Verdon. From there, you can take a bus or train to the village. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to La Palud-sur-Verdon, which is about a 2-hour drive from Marseille. For added convenience, you can also opt to pay for an extra transfer service, which can be arranged to pick you up directly from the airport and take you to the village. This is a self-guided tour where guide services are not provided, however, you will be provided all the tour material in English, as well as a helpline phone number. Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are electric bikes (Cannondale or similar). Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour. Self-guided Specialists: Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of. Packed with Inclusions: Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories. World Class Support: Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.

Daily Ride Schedule

Accommodation & Services

Accommodation

Hotel

What's Included