The best road cycling routes around Avignon

There are over 840 road cycling routes around Avignon listed on komoot, offering a wide variety of terrain from flat riverside paths to challenging climbs. This includes 252 easy routes, 488 moderate routes, and 102 difficult routes, catering to all skill levels.

The ideal times for road cycling in Avignon are spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, temperatures are cooler and more pleasant, and there are generally fewer crowds, making for a more enjoyable experience.

Yes, Avignon offers many easy and family-friendly options. The flat riverside trails along the Rhône, including segments of the Via Rhôna, and the Canal Path along the Canal de Vaucluse, provide scenic and gentle rides. Europe's largest river island, Île de la Barthelasse, also features easy, flat cycling through farmland and forests, perfect for a relaxed outing.

For those seeking more demanding rides, the Alpilles hills and the Vaucluse Mountains offer rewarding climbs with panoramic views. Routes like the Col des trois Termes — loop from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and the Gorges de la Nesque Road Climb – Murs Pass loop from Lagnes provide substantial elevation gain and are rated as difficult.

Avignon's routes offer diverse scenic beauty. You can cycle through picturesque vineyards, especially towards Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and vibrant orchards. The Villeneuve-lès-Avignon Ridge Ride provides stunning vistas of Avignon and the Palais des Papes. Other routes offer views of the Rhône River, the Alpilles hills, and the dramatic Dentelles de Montmirail.

Absolutely! Many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle around the well-preserved 14th-century city walls of Avignon Old Town, admire the historic Palais des Papes, and see the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet. The area around Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, with its powerful resurgence, is also a popular natural attraction.

Yes, many road cycling routes around Avignon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the challenging Col des trois Termes — loop from Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, the scenic Col de Viares — loop from Orange, and the Taulignan loop from Grillon, which takes you through the Provencal landscape.

The duration of road cycling routes in the Avignon region varies significantly based on distance and difficulty. For example, a moderate route like Les Baux-de-Provence – Col de la Vayède loop from Avignon TGV typically takes around 2 hours 56 minutes, while longer routes such as the Calavon Bike Path – Pont Julien loop from L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue - Fontaine-de-Vaucluse can take over 3 hours 30 minutes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 600 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from flat riverside paths to challenging climbs, and the picturesque routes through vineyards and orchards. The region's rich history and natural beauty, including views of the Palais des Papes and the Rhône, are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, Avignon and Greater Avignon Tourist Offices hold the "Accueil Vélo" label, indicating a warm welcome for cycling tourists. They often provide services like free repair kits, pumps, and e-bike battery charging. Bike rental services, including self-service bikes through Vélopop, are also available in the city.

While Avignon itself is well-connected, direct public transport access to the start of every specific road cycling route can vary. Many routes are accessible from Avignon's city center or nearby towns which are served by regional buses or trains. For routes starting further afield, such as the View of Valréas – Visan - very Provencal! loop from Visan, you might need to plan your journey to the starting point accordingly.

Yes, several routes provide stunning views of Gordes, one of France's most beautiful villages. The View over Gordes – View of Gordes loop from L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a moderate route that offers excellent vistas of the village and its surroundings. Another option is the Fontaine-de-Vaucluse – Gordes loop from L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue - Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.