11 Breathtaking Cycling Routes in the South of France

The Canal du Midi is a favourite for French holidaymakers (cyclists, boaters, campers) who use the canal that runs from Toulouse to Marseille (and the Mediterranean sea). It’s a UNESCO heritage site and you can bike for 240km in total.

The ViaRhôna is 815km of cycle route from Lake Leman in Switzerland to the Mediterranean sea, taking in Geneva, Lyon and Avignon before it reaches the white horses of the Camargue.

Start in the Petit Luberon valley in Provence and stray off the beaten track with this 54km trek through lavender fields, a 2,000-year-old bridge (Pont Julien) and the villages of Ménerbes and Bonnieux.

The Charente Valley stretches from Angouleme to Saintes and is often talked about as a hidden gem for tourists. There are lots of favoured bike routes that leave from the historic town of Jarnac that take in the Cognac vineyards, sunflower fields and the stream.

Nice has lots of bike routes that take in the best of the Côte d’Azur. The one to Èze is special because of the way the village is perched high on the hill and then winds down into Monaco beyond. It’s often been used in James Bond car chases for that reason.

Another favourite which takes in a few different places is the 440km route from the medieval town of Arles, ending at the beaches in Cannes. The route also passes through the perfume town of Grasses.

Known as a key stage on the Tour de France circuit, this is for experienced climbers only. Follow the trail up and around the hairpin bends. As the website says, you’ll likely meet more sheep than cars. It’s only a 15km ride but at a nearly 8% gradient at 1,150 metres above sea level, it’s tough work.

The 330km bike route from Marseille to Nice hugs the Mediterranean coastline and gives sublime views. Be warned that in summer the route has high traffic so it’s not for the faint-hearted. It can also be expensive to find accommodation.