Cycling guides and maps in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur by bike
Between the sea, mountains, and lavender fields, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, also known as PACA, offers a playground for cycling enthusiasts. Whether you’re a fan of electric bike rides in Aix-en-Provence, an adventurer ready to tackle crossing the Alps by bike, or curious to discover the Côte d’Azur’s cycling routes, this region promises a variety of itineraries.
Tourist attractions in the PACA region
From the lavender fields of the Luberon to the coves of Cassis, from the hilltop villages of the Haut-Var to the beaches of the Côte d’Azur, every pedal stroke is a journey. The region captivates with its diverse landscapes, its almost year-round sunny climate, and its rich cultural heritage: ancient cities like Arles and Vaison-la-Romaine, festivals, museums, and Provençal markets line the routes.
Cycling in Provence also means immersing yourself in history and traditions: roads lined with olive trees, Romanesque chapels, dry-stone farmhouses and the scents of the garrigue accompany cyclists throughout their journey.
The major cycling routes in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
The PACA region is crossed by several major cycle routes, well marked and linked together, which allow you to discover all the facets of the territory:
- The ViaRhôna : A legendary route that runs along the Rhône from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. It crosses the Vaucluse and Bouches-du-Rhône departments, a total immersion in Provence by bike.
- The Mediterranean by Bike (EuroVelo 8) : This route runs along the Côte d’Azur coastline from Menton to Arles. From the Côte d’Azur by bike, the stages offer breathtaking views of the sea and pass through Nice, Antibes, and Toulon.
- The Grande Traversée des Alpes by bike : A sporting and visual challenge, from Thonon-les-Bains to Nice, crossing legendary passes such as the Izoard and the Galibier. This crossing of the Alps by bike is one of the most spectacular in Europe.
- The Tour du Luberon by bike : This loop allows you to discover inland Provence with its listed villages and iconic landscapes. A great alternative for those who prefer a more accessible route.
3 essential products for exploring the region PACA by bike
To prepare for your adventure in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, here are three essential products to find on Cartovelo.fr:
- ViaRhôna Guide, Ouest-France Editions : The best stages of the Rhône Cycle Route with this Ouest France guide.
- 4 breakaways, 37 maps, 1 overview map.
- ING Map of the Route des Grandes Alpes : Discover the legendary Route des Grandes Alpes through 700 km of mountain road and 21 of the highest passes in the French Alps.
- Glénat Guide to Cycling and E-Bike Travel in Provence : The perfect companion for planning your Provence itineraries safely.
Also consider a charging solution if you are going on an electric bike trip to Aix-en-Provence or elsewhere: rural areas do not always offer frequent charging stations.
The PACA cycle network is evolving
The region’s cycling network has grown considerably in recent years. There are now approximately 1,300 km of developed routes, greenways, cycle paths, and marked shared roads. The Bouches-du-Rhône, Alpes-Maritimes, and Vaucluse departments are home to the main developments, linked to tourist routes.
In Aix-en-Provence, the city is developing a dense cycling network, with urban loops connected to regional routes. Numerous cycle paths allow visitors to combine cycling in Aix-en-Provence with culture, from Cours Mirabeau to the Vasarely Foundation and the Montaiguet trails.
The region is also investing in signage, bicycle accessibility on regional trains, and rental points. In the mountains, mountain passes are often open to cyclists before cars in the summer, offering peaceful climbs.
For both recreational and more experienced cyclists, the Côte d’Azur and Verdon cycle routes are great alternatives to coastal traffic. The hinterland is full of quiet, hilly little roads, ideal for exploring at your own pace.