The best cycling routes around Arles

There are over 1,100 touring cycling routes around Arles, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.3 stars.

The Arles region offers diverse landscapes for touring cyclists. You can explore the flat, wild expanses of the Camargue with its marshlands, rice fields, and salt flats, or venture into the rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park. Additionally, the Rhône River provides peaceful, flat routes along its banks.

The region generally offers good weather for cycling, especially outside of the peak summer months. Spring and autumn are ideal, providing pleasant temperatures and less crowded routes. Summers can be hot, particularly in the Camargue, so early mornings or late afternoons are recommended if cycling during this season.

Yes, Arles offers many easy touring cycling routes, particularly in the flat terrain of the Camargue. These routes are perfect for beginners and families. An example is The Regional Natural Reserve of the Tour du Valat in a loop, which is an easy 20.9-mile (33.6 km) trail exploring the Camargue's landscapes and wildlife.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Arles are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For instance, the Bataiyolles Pond – Camargue Salt Flats loop from Arénes de Méjanes is a popular circular route through the Camargue, and the Alpilles also offer various loop options like Eygalières, Orgon and Maussane-les-Alpilles – loop.

The Camargue Regional Natural Park is renowned for its unique wildlife. While cycling through its marshlands and salt flats, you can often spot iconic pink flamingos, white Camargue horses, and black bulls. The region is a significant bird sanctuary, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching.

Absolutely. In the Camargue, you can cycle past the Etang de Vaccares and Bataiyolles Pond, which are key features of the natural reserve. The Alpilles offer scenic viewpoints such as View of Mont Gaussier and Panoramic view from the watchtower at Les Baux, providing stunning vistas of the Provençal countryside.

Arles itself is rich in Roman heritage, with its ancient arenas and theater easily accessible. Cycling routes can also lead you to places that inspired Vincent van Gogh, such as the famous Van Gogh Bridge. In the Alpilles, you can cycle through charming Provençal villages and past vineyards, some offering wine-tasting opportunities.

Yes, while the Camargue offers mostly flat terrain, the Alpilles Regional Natural Park provides more challenging routes with elevation changes. An example is Eygalières, Orgon and Maussane-les-Alpilles – loop, a difficult 38.3-mile (61.6 km) route with significant climbs through the hills. Another challenging option is the Camargue Loop: Saint-Gilles to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a longer 56.6-mile (91.2 km) ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 7,800 reviews. Cyclists particularly praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil Camargue to the scenic Alpilles, and the well-maintained routes that cater to all abilities. The rich biodiversity and historical sites also add to the appeal.

Yes, the ViaRhôna cycle path is a significant asset for touring cyclists in Arles. This greenway runs along the Rhône River, offering a flat and peaceful route that connects Arles to other historic towns and ultimately to the Mediterranean Sea. It provides picturesque views of agricultural plains and canals.

Indeed. Routes like the Bataiyolles Pond – Camargue Salt Flats loop from Arénes de Méjanes or the Camargue Salt Flats – Bataiyolles Pond loop from Étang de la Vignolle specifically take you through the distinctive salt production areas, offering unique vistas of this wild landscape.

While this guide focuses on routes, Arles is a cycling-friendly city with several options for bike rentals, including electrically assisted bikes. You can typically find rental shops in the city center or inquire at local tourist information offices for current providers.