Cycling Tours in france

Provence is Mediterranean France. The air is scented by maquis and lavender, the wine crisp and cool, and the food rich in herbs. Our circular ride through the Alpes du Sud is best suited to seasoned bikers. The landscape and that special quality of light that inspired the great painters is a joy to travel through especially in the early spring and autumn when the climate is just perfect. The ride is punctuated by sleepy pantiled villages and pleasant market towns like Castellane and Moustiers, famous for its Faience pottery, Spa towns like Digne and Greoux, and medieval citadels like Manosque. Along with these, the natural attractions of the Verdon Gorge, France's Grand Canyon, and the spectacular lakes and mountains of Provence combine to make a holiday full of interest and diversity.

After arrival in Sisteron the previous evening, your first day's cycling takes you to Digne-les-Bains. There is a choice of routes, the easier one follows the Durance Valley through the attractive town of Volonne and follows the shores of the Lac D'Escale, a noted bird watching area. From Digne-les-Bains an enjoyable days cycling involving some long climbs to the Col de Pierre Bse, (1035m) takes you to St Andre les Alpes. On day 4 a spectacular ride along the shores of Lac de Castiflon and through the market town of Castellane takes you to La Palud close to The Verdon Gorge. A relatively gentle day from La Palud enables you to spend some time in the attractive town of Moustiers, before continuing to Riez. You are now in Provence proper, the Roman Provincia. You can admire the group of Roman columns at Riez, while the medieval town centre of Manosque takes hours to explore fully. After staying in Manosque an exciting ride in the shadow of the Montagne de Lure take you back to the historic fortress town of Sisteron. Along the route is Forcalquier, a lively town with a 12th Century church and a Franciscan Convent.