Original post
Quelle est la plus belle route touristique pour relier Vallon pont d'arc à Toulouse a vélo avec sacoches ( difficulté moyenne)
Merci
Route touristique Vallon-Pont-d'Arc - Toulouse à vélo
by Nounours
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
Quelle est la plus belle route touristique pour relier Vallon pont d'arc à Toulouse a vélo avec sacoches ( difficulté moyenne)
Merci
Bonsoir, Voici donc un regard québécois sur un trajet en sol français ! A ma décharge, j'ai effectué en 1996 une bonne partie du 2e trajet proposé, et j'ai souvent étudié les cartes dans le but de faire une variante de ma proposition #1!.
Première proposition, au départ de Vallon Pont D'Arc: commet quitter Vallon à vélo sans esquiver la route des Gorges, même si c'est pas dans la bonne direction? Alors, en route vers St-Martin d'Ardèche, et grimpons vaillamment la magnifique route qui longe les Gorges de L'Ardèche, la surplombant de plus en plus haut. Après une longue série de panoramas fabuleux, de virages en épingles de tunnels et d'à-pics époustouflants, de belles descentes vous mèneront en douceur à St-Martin, jolie village ardéchois. Bien qu'il soit tentant de prendre la vallée pour rejoindre le Rhone et ensuite descendre peinard vers Narbonne, je vous propose plutôt de bifurquer vers Millau, le but étant de rejoindre le Causse Méjean et les gorges du Tarn. Ça pourrait grimper dur après Alès, le long du parc national des Cévennes. Par expérience, ces efforts apportent souvent des récompenses à l'avenant, les paysages vus d'en haut bien plus signifiants qu'au creux des vallées. Après Florac, il faut remonter vers Ispagnac puis Ste-Enimie pour profiter des gorges du Tarn à leur meilleur. Vous roulerez ensuite sur frontière entre Lozère et Aveyron pour rejoindre Millau et son viaduc, puis traverserez une partie du Parc Naturel Régional des Grands-Causses, notamment par St-Affrique; Si vous remontez de nouveau vers le Tarn vous aurez de beaux méandres à Ambialet et la magnifique cathédrale Ste-Sophie à Albi. Autre détour pour nous ramener vers le Causse Noir et Mazamet, au pied de la Montagne Noire, au nord de Carcassonne. Mazamet est à moins de 100 km de Toulouse, votre objectif final.
Au total, ce trajet fait 600 km, Dénivelés positifs totalisant 7,111, le long des Gorges de l'Ardèche et du Tarn, à travers les Causses Méjean, Grands-Causses et Causse Noir, les Parcs Régionaux des Cévennes puis des Grands-Causses. Montagneux? De toute façon, toute la région au départ de Vallon est ... vallonnée!. La beauté des paysages et des régions justifient l'effort consacré, quitte à faire moins de kilomètre par jour pour compenser les dénivelés.
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1629412
Deuxième trajet: En 1996, mes amis Léon, Jeannine et moi avions fait Bordeaux-Lyons à vélo, en passant en bonne partie par ce trajet (soit la section entre Figeac et St-Martin d'Ardèche; Par la suite, nous avions continué vers Vaison La Romaine, les Gorges du Verdon, puis remontés vers Die, le Vercors puis Lyons). Donc revenons au départ de Vallon Pont d'Arc, afin de prendre vers le nord pour visiter les (très!) jolis villages de Balazuc, Vinezac et Val-les-Bains. De là, longue et sinueuse ascension le long de la Volane pour rejoindre les flancs du Mont Gerbier du Jonc (les sources de la Loire sont tout près), puis une belle route à flanc de montagne mène au Mont Mézenc, dans des paysages fantastiques!. Les petits villages et les routes de campagne se succèdent jusqu'à Puy-en-Velay. Le camping près du centre de la cité permet de visiter la cathédrale et la chapelle perchée au sommet du piton rocheux, si vous y passez la nuit. Prévoir déguster les lentilles du Puy, fameuses spécialités culinaires de la région!. Encore de bien jolies routes, villages et vallons se succèdent entre Huate-Loire et Cantal. Le plateau de Margeride est particulièrement agréable à vélo. Ça reste montagneux après St-Flour et ça devient vraiment corsé après Murat si vous faites le détour vers le Puy Mary, dont le sommet est magnifique, prenez le temps d'y monter!. De l'autre coté de la Nationale, à thiézac, une petite route de montagne vers Jou-sous-Monjou (juste pour le nom il faut y aller!), puis Vezel-Roussy où les jeunes aubergistes étaient si accueillants (enfin, en 1996 ils étaient jeunes ...) . De Vezel-Roussy, ça descend par monts et par vaux (ça monte aussi un peu ...) jusqu'à Entraygues, où la Truyère et le Lot se rejoignent. La route qui longe le Lot vers l'ouest est à flanc de montagnes, les tout petits villages sont tellement beaux, un coup de coeur certain. Un détour de quelques km sur la Dourdou (et une bonne ascension!) mène à Conques, prévoir quelques heures, le lieu est inspirant. Nous retraversons le Lot à Livinhac-le-Haut, avant de monter vers Montredon, village agricole perché au dessus de la vallée. Très longue descente jusqu'à Figeac, petite cité, utile pour les vivres, intéressantes pour musée de Champollion (les hiéroglyphes ...). Le reste du trajet se fait le long du Lot et de ses villages riverains (parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy). A Cahors, vous serez à un peu plus de 100 km au nord de Toulouse, votre destination finale.
Au total, ce trajet fait 650 km, Dénivelés positifs totalisant 10,672 mètres. Route sans doute (un peu) plus montagneuse, sur les flancs des Monts Gerbier du Jonc, Mézenc et Puy Mary, en bonne partie en Auvergne, Cantal et Massif Central. Tout de même, paysages magnifiques, plus verdoyants que dans les Causses du premier trajet, et avec davantage de beaux villages.
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1629470
Si vous ouvrez les deux trajets en simultané dans Openrunner.com, vous aurez une belle vue comparative, bien difficile ensuite de faire le meilleur choix!
Au total, ces deux trajets font à peu près le double du trajet le plus direct entre Vallon Pont-D'Arc et Toulouse (319 km). Le but ciblé, selon ma compréhension, étant la beauté, les intérêts touristiques et tenant compte que le trajet est fait à vélo avec bagages. 😊 Espérant mes souvenirs utiles à vos projet, bonne préparation!
Normand Beloeil, Québec
Bonsoir, Voici donc un regard québécois sur un trajet en sol français ! A ma décharge, j'ai effectué en 1996 une bonne partie du 2e trajet proposé, et j'ai souvent étudié les cartes dans le but de faire une variante de ma proposition #1!.
Première proposition, au départ de Vallon Pont D'Arc: commet quitter Vallon à vélo sans esquiver la route des Gorges, même si c'est pas dans la bonne direction? Alors, en route vers St-Martin d'Ardèche, et grimpons vaillamment la magnifique route qui longe les Gorges de L'Ardèche, la surplombant de plus en plus haut. Après une longue série de panoramas fabuleux, de virages en épingles de tunnels et d'à-pics époustouflants, de belles descentes vous mèneront en douceur à St-Martin, jolie village ardéchois. Bien qu'il soit tentant de prendre la vallée pour rejoindre le Rhone et ensuite descendre peinard vers Narbonne, je vous propose plutôt de bifurquer vers Millau, le but étant de rejoindre le Causse Méjean et les gorges du Tarn. Ça pourrait grimper dur après Alès, le long du parc national des Cévennes. Par expérience, ces efforts apportent souvent des récompenses à l'avenant, les paysages vus d'en haut bien plus signifiants qu'au creux des vallées. Après Florac, il faut remonter vers Ispagnac puis Ste-Enimie pour profiter des gorges du Tarn à leur meilleur. Vous roulerez ensuite sur frontière entre Lozère et Aveyron pour rejoindre Millau et son viaduc, puis traverserez une partie du Parc Naturel Régional des Grands-Causses, notamment par St-Affrique; Si vous remontez de nouveau vers le Tarn vous aurez de beaux méandres à Ambialet et la magnifique cathédrale Ste-Sophie à Albi. Autre détour pour nous ramener vers le Causse Noir et Mazamet, au pied de la Montagne Noire, au nord de Carcassonne. Mazamet est à moins de 100 km de Toulouse, votre objectif final.
Au total, ce trajet fait 600 km, Dénivelés positifs totalisant 7,111, le long des Gorges de l'Ardèche et du Tarn, à travers les Causses Méjean, Grands-Causses et Causse Noir, les Parcs Régionaux des Cévennes puis des Grands-Causses. Montagneux? De toute façon, toute la région au départ de Vallon est ... vallonnée!. La beauté des paysages et des régions justifient l'effort consacré, quitte à faire moins de kilomètre par jour pour compenser les dénivelés.
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1629412
Deuxième trajet: En 1996, mes amis Léon, Jeannine et moi avions fait Bordeaux-Lyons à vélo, en passant en bonne partie par ce trajet (soit la section entre Figeac et St-Martin d'Ardèche; Par la suite, nous avions continué vers Vaison La Romaine, les Gorges du Verdon, puis remontés vers Die, le Vercors puis Lyons). Donc revenons au départ de Vallon Pont d'Arc, afin de prendre vers le nord pour visiter les (très!) jolis villages de Balazuc, Vinezac et Val-les-Bains. De là, longue et sinueuse ascension le long de la Volane pour rejoindre les flancs du Mont Gerbier du Jonc (les sources de la Loire sont tout près), puis une belle route à flanc de montagne mène au Mont Mézenc, dans des paysages fantastiques!. Les petits villages et les routes de campagne se succèdent jusqu'à Puy-en-Velay. Le camping près du centre de la cité permet de visiter la cathédrale et la chapelle perchée au sommet du piton rocheux, si vous y passez la nuit. Prévoir déguster les lentilles du Puy, fameuses spécialités culinaires de la région!. Encore de bien jolies routes, villages et vallons se succèdent entre Huate-Loire et Cantal. Le plateau de Margeride est particulièrement agréable à vélo. Ça reste montagneux après St-Flour et ça devient vraiment corsé après Murat si vous faites le détour vers le Puy Mary, dont le sommet est magnifique, prenez le temps d'y monter!. De l'autre coté de la Nationale, à thiézac, une petite route de montagne vers Jou-sous-Monjou (juste pour le nom il faut y aller!), puis Vezel-Roussy où les jeunes aubergistes étaient si accueillants (enfin, en 1996 ils étaient jeunes ...) . De Vezel-Roussy, ça descend par monts et par vaux (ça monte aussi un peu ...) jusqu'à Entraygues, où la Truyère et le Lot se rejoignent. La route qui longe le Lot vers l'ouest est à flanc de montagnes, les tout petits villages sont tellement beaux, un coup de coeur certain. Un détour de quelques km sur la Dourdou (et une bonne ascension!) mène à Conques, prévoir quelques heures, le lieu est inspirant. Nous retraversons le Lot à Livinhac-le-Haut, avant de monter vers Montredon, village agricole perché au dessus de la vallée. Très longue descente jusqu'à Figeac, petite cité, utile pour les vivres, intéressantes pour musée de Champollion (les hiéroglyphes ...). Le reste du trajet se fait le long du Lot et de ses villages riverains (parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy). A Cahors, vous serez à un peu plus de 100 km au nord de Toulouse, votre destination finale.
Au total, ce trajet fait 650 km, Dénivelés positifs totalisant 10,672 mètres. Route sans doute (un peu) plus montagneuse, sur les flancs des Monts Gerbier du Jonc, Mézenc et Puy Mary, en bonne partie en Auvergne, Cantal et Massif Central. Tout de même, paysages magnifiques, plus verdoyants que dans les Causses du premier trajet, et avec davantage de beaux villages.
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1629470
Si vous ouvrez les deux trajets en simultané dans Openrunner.com, vous aurez une belle vue comparative, bien difficile ensuite de faire le meilleur choix!
Au total, ces deux trajets font à peu près le double du trajet le plus direct entre Vallon Pont-D'Arc et Toulouse (319 km). Le but ciblé, selon ma compréhension, étant la beauté, les intérêts touristiques et tenant compte que le trajet est fait à vélo avec bagages. 😊 Espérant mes souvenirs utiles à vos projet, bonne préparation!
Normand Beloeil, Québec
Bonjour et félicitations pour ce texte qui donne envie de faire les deux boucles.!
Merci beaucoup pour ce super parcours que je garde sous la main.
mais par manque de temps cette fois ci , il me faudrait le parcours le moins long.
Est ce que celui de 319 kms emprunte des petites routes ?
Merci encore
Merci beaucoup pour ce super parcours que je garde sous la main.
mais par manque de temps cette fois ci , il me faudrait le parcours le moins long.
Est ce que celui de 319 kms emprunte des petites routes ?
Merci encore
Ce trajet se situe essentiellement sur des routes tranquilles (aucune nationale), toutefois les plus sites touristiques sont escamotés (bien que souvent pas très loin). Le trajet reste assez vallonné (D+ 3535 m ou 11.08 m/km, VS 7163 m ou 12 m/km pour le trajet #1 par les Gorges, et 10,672 m ou 16.4 km par le Massif Central).
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1635153
Une variante plus facile mais un peu plus longue serait de contourner la Montagne Noire par son flanc sud; Vous pourriez connecter la piste cyclable du canal du Midi, par exemple à Carcassonne. Le canal du Midi à vélo est un trajet discutable; Belles sections sous les platanes, d'autres sections sont parsemées de racines, ornières, boue, franchement déplaisant pendant plusieurs kilomètres. Une longue section avant d'arriver à Toulouse est alsphaltée, très roulante, jolie, bien que l'autoroute soit près, avec bruits de fond à l'avenant.
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1635203 (total 354 km, D+ 1619 m ou 4.6 m/km_
Vous pourrez facilement modifier ces trajets avec l'outil openrunner.com, et les adapter à vos besoins. Bonne préparation
Ce trajet se situe essentiellement sur des routes tranquilles (aucune nationale), toutefois les plus sites touristiques sont escamotés (bien que souvent pas très loin). Le trajet reste assez vallonné (D+ 3535 m ou 11.08 m/km, VS 7163 m ou 12 m/km pour le trajet #1 par les Gorges, et 10,672 m ou 16.4 km par le Massif Central).
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1635153
Une variante plus facile mais un peu plus longue serait de contourner la Montagne Noire par son flanc sud; Vous pourriez connecter la piste cyclable du canal du Midi, par exemple à Carcassonne. Le canal du Midi à vélo est un trajet discutable; Belles sections sous les platanes, d'autres sections sont parsemées de racines, ornières, boue, franchement déplaisant pendant plusieurs kilomètres. Une longue section avant d'arriver à Toulouse est alsphaltée, très roulante, jolie, bien que l'autoroute soit près, avec bruits de fond à l'avenant.
http://www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1635203 (total 354 km, D+ 1619 m ou 4.6 m/km_
Vous pourrez facilement modifier ces trajets avec l'outil openrunner.com, et les adapter à vos besoins. Bonne préparation
Bonjour rikimiki
Je sais que ce post date un peu mais je tente quand mème 🙂 Je suis entrain de préparer un parcours sur le mème trajet , le trajet que vous citez m intéresse fortement mais j'arrive pas a le lire sur openrunner ..😕 Pourriez vous me le remettre ?
Merci
Nicolas
Je sais que ce post date un peu mais je tente quand mème 🙂 Je suis entrain de préparer un parcours sur le mème trajet , le trajet que vous citez m intéresse fortement mais j'arrive pas a le lire sur openrunner ..😕 Pourriez vous me le remettre ?
Merci
Nicolas
--> NIKOS LE PTIO CYCLO VAGABOND <--
Bonjour rikimiki
Je sais que ce post date un peu mais je tente quand mème 🙂 Je suis entrain de préparer un parcours sur le mème trajet , le trajet que vous citez m intéresse fortement mais j'arrive pas a le lire sur openrunner ..😕 Pourriez vous me le remettre ?
Merci
Nicolas
Bonjour Nicolas J'ai remis en ligne les deux principaux trajets
www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=3504952 (Gorges de L'Ardèche, Cévennes, Gorges du Tarn, Millau, Albi, Montagne Noire, Mazamet, Toulouse); 600 km pout 6,846 mètres de dénivelé. (détails à fignoler avec survol des petites routes, car j'ai laissé openrunner calculer le trajet en bonne partie faute de temps).
et
www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1629470 (Gerbier du Jonc, Mont Mezenc, Le Puy-en-Velay, St-Flour, Murat, Puy Mary, Entraygues, Conques, Figeac, Cahors, Toulouse); 680 km pour 9,951 mètres de dénivelé.
Bonne lecture, amusez-vous avec openrunner, il est facile de modifier les trajets comme il vous convient. Normand
Je sais que ce post date un peu mais je tente quand mème 🙂 Je suis entrain de préparer un parcours sur le mème trajet , le trajet que vous citez m intéresse fortement mais j'arrive pas a le lire sur openrunner ..😕 Pourriez vous me le remettre ?
Merci
Nicolas
Bonjour Nicolas J'ai remis en ligne les deux principaux trajets
www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=3504952 (Gorges de L'Ardèche, Cévennes, Gorges du Tarn, Millau, Albi, Montagne Noire, Mazamet, Toulouse); 600 km pout 6,846 mètres de dénivelé. (détails à fignoler avec survol des petites routes, car j'ai laissé openrunner calculer le trajet en bonne partie faute de temps).
et
www.openrunner.com/index.php?id=1629470 (Gerbier du Jonc, Mont Mezenc, Le Puy-en-Velay, St-Flour, Murat, Puy Mary, Entraygues, Conques, Figeac, Cahors, Toulouse); 680 km pour 9,951 mètres de dénivelé.
Bonne lecture, amusez-vous avec openrunner, il est facile de modifier les trajets comme il vous convient. Normand
Je te remerci rikimiki 😉 cest sympa , je vais paufiner ca au calme .. Bonne journée nicolas
--> NIKOS LE PTIO CYCLO VAGABOND <--
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I’m planning to cycle from Morlaix to Brest (via Roscoff and the V45 coastal route). We’ll start riding on August 16th for 13 days (with stops for island visits, surfing, etc.). Is there a lot of traffic at this time of year? I’ve got two kids, 11 and 13, and we don’t like riding in the middle of cars (we’ve already done the Vélomaritime—Caen to Cherbourg—the Loire route from Orléans to Saumur, the Vélodyssée from Nantes to Royans, and the canals like the Nivernais and Bourgogne, where there were plenty of bike-only lanes, which isn’t the case on this route).
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I saw there are lakes in Argentina too.
I don’t have a precise itinerary, but what I’d love is, once I reach the southernmost point of my trip, to take a mini-cruise to see some wildlife. Any tips for that?
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I'm developing a free and open-source web app for planning walking and cycling trips (and even car trips). You can create a route by clicking directly on the map to add waypoints, and it can consist of multiple stages. The app provides tools to edit the stages and the overall route, and to display useful information (distances, altitudes, and elevation changes). A relief profile can be shown as a graph for a specific stage or the entire route.
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
Source code: https://github.com/patricklmarie/GPX-Route-Planner Online demo: https://patricklmarie.github.io/GPX-Route-Planner/
Once the route is ready, it can be exported as a GPX file, which can then be used with a GPS or a mobile navigation app.
The app is built in JavaScript and runs entirely in the web browser. It uses the Leaflet library and several OpenStreetMap-based services. Initially developed for my personal needs (I enjoy hiking and cycle touring), I’d be happy to share it with anyone who might find it useful. It’s free to use, doesn’t require an account, and the source code is available.
Source code: https://github.com/patricklmarie/GPX-Route-Planner Online demo: https://patricklmarie.github.io/GPX-Route-Planner/
After testing it for three years across various modes of transport, I’m sharing this video of a bike packing case. It’s made from recycled cardboard and shrink-wrapped, with adjustable thickness and added bubble wrap depending on the level of protection you want.
Installing spacers at the fork and chainstays makes the packaging compact. With the fifteen-odd euros for shrink-wrapping at the airport, this case travels really well.
https://youtu.be/_GDJi-GqmkM
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If you get a chance to test it, send me your feedback for future improvements.
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This summer, we’re planning to cycle along the EV 19 that follows the Meuse River from Langres all the way to Rotterdam. My question is about getting back to Nantes. Do any of you know what the best return option might be? I’d love to hear about your experiences. I saw that FlixBus doesn’t take bikes. By train, I think it’s possible but would involve multiple local trains. We were also wondering if there’s a boat from Rotterdam to Saint-Nazaire that could take passengers with bikes.
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This summer, we’re planning to cycle along the EV 19 that follows the Meuse River from Langres all the way to Rotterdam. My question is about getting back to Nantes. Do any of you know what the best return option might be? I’d love to hear about your experiences. I saw that FlixBus doesn’t take bikes. By train, I think it’s possible but would involve multiple local trains. We were also wondering if there’s a boat from Rotterdam to Saint-Nazaire that could take passengers with bikes.
Any tips or experiences you can share would be really helpful—thanks in advance! Have a great evening
I’ve gotten used to crossing Europe by bus to return by bike.
It was really convenient to take the bike without having to disassemble it.
But FlixBus no longer accepts bikes...
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Since it’s too complicated to bring my bike on the train, I’m looking to rent one locally.
I’d love any tips or bike rental shop recommendations—I’m struggling to find options even in Rotterdam.
The plan is to rent in Rotterdam, take the train to Maastricht with the bike, then cycle back to Rotterdam.
Thanks in advance for any advice or suggestions!
Nath
Coming soon:
https://www.Biclou.com/parcours/durance/
Starting from Faverges: 900 km over 9 days
Here’s the detailed Durance route starting from Briançon
Here’s the detailed Durance route starting from Briançon
Hi there,
I’m planning to build a new touring bike. I want to prioritize lightness. That said, I’m tempted by a suspension fork that could offer some comfort on rougher roads. The recent appearance of gravel suspension forks on the market might meet my needs—at least on paper. I’m particularly considering the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR fork. Unlike MTB forks, its travel is short: either 30 mm or 40 mm. It weighs 1400 g, which is 400/500 g more than a steel fork.
Any thoughts or real-world feedback on this?
I’m also wondering about the durability of magnesium (lower leg) for long-distance bike touring. And what’s the impact of skipping the manufacturer-recommended maintenance every 50 and 200 hours? That’s bound to happen on a long trip unless you carry extra gear. More generally, how reliable are these kinds of forks?
Thanks in advance
I’m planning to build a new touring bike. I want to prioritize lightness. That said, I’m tempted by a suspension fork that could offer some comfort on rougher roads. The recent appearance of gravel suspension forks on the market might meet my needs—at least on paper. I’m particularly considering the RockShox Rudy Ultimate XPLR fork. Unlike MTB forks, its travel is short: either 30 mm or 40 mm. It weighs 1400 g, which is 400/500 g more than a steel fork.
Any thoughts or real-world feedback on this?
I’m also wondering about the durability of magnesium (lower leg) for long-distance bike touring. And what’s the impact of skipping the manufacturer-recommended maintenance every 50 and 200 hours? That’s bound to happen on a long trip unless you carry extra gear. More generally, how reliable are these kinds of forks?
Thanks in advance
Hi there!
I’m making an exception and creating a separate post this time, since it’s all about France. In May, we spent a week in Provence, specifically in the Luberon, exploring the cycling routes *Autour du Luberon à Vélo*, the *Véloroute du Calavon* (part of EuroVelo 8), and the shorter *Les Ocres à Vélo* route. Together, they gave us an amazing journey through rolling hills, vineyards, lavender fields still green in spring, and some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France.
It was, of course, the perched villages that impressed us the most. We visited Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Cucuron, and Lauris. Many of them are among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and it’s hard not to agree with that reputation.
One interesting point is the route of EuroVelo 8 in this part of the region. The official path mainly follows the old railway line of the *Véloroute du Calavon*, which is very comfortable and safe. But in our opinion, cyclists traveling EuroVelo 8 around the Mediterranean would discover even more treasures if the route passed through villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, or Oppède-le-Vieux.
We were also pleasantly surprised by how safe cycling felt. Most of the route takes small local roads, but traffic is light, drivers are respectful, and road design really takes cyclists into account. It’s one of those places where you can ride peacefully even without separated bike lanes.
Our full story:
Around Luberon by bicycle - the most beautiful villages of Provence
You can also find all our cycling travel stories on the forum:
Cycling Thread - Europe’s most beautiful bike routes
S.
I’m making an exception and creating a separate post this time, since it’s all about France. In May, we spent a week in Provence, specifically in the Luberon, exploring the cycling routes *Autour du Luberon à Vélo*, the *Véloroute du Calavon* (part of EuroVelo 8), and the shorter *Les Ocres à Vélo* route. Together, they gave us an amazing journey through rolling hills, vineyards, lavender fields still green in spring, and some of the most stunning landscapes in southern France.
It was, of course, the perched villages that impressed us the most. We visited Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Lourmarin, Ménerbes, Oppède-le-Vieux, Cucuron, and Lauris. Many of them are among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and it’s hard not to agree with that reputation.
One interesting point is the route of EuroVelo 8 in this part of the region. The official path mainly follows the old railway line of the *Véloroute du Calavon*, which is very comfortable and safe. But in our opinion, cyclists traveling EuroVelo 8 around the Mediterranean would discover even more treasures if the route passed through villages like Bonnieux, Lacoste, or Oppède-le-Vieux.
We were also pleasantly surprised by how safe cycling felt. Most of the route takes small local roads, but traffic is light, drivers are respectful, and road design really takes cyclists into account. It’s one of those places where you can ride peacefully even without separated bike lanes.
Our full story:
Around Luberon by bicycle - the most beautiful villages of Provence
You can also find all our cycling travel stories on the forum:
Cycling Thread - Europe’s most beautiful bike routes
S.
Hi there, we’re a group of 4 cyclists looking to get from Treviso in Italy to Munich with our 4 non-folding bikes. It seems complicated! Are there any solutions? Thanks so much.
hello fellow cycling enthusiasts
here’s a travel journal of the cycling tour through the Rhône-Alpes Auvergne region by Claudio
zouli
it was the plan
http://cbandiera.free.fr/parcours/auvergne-Ralpes/
the trip was completed story being posted online soon 1100 km in 11 days beautiful and varied regions
claudio
the trip was completed story being posted online soon 1100 km in 11 days beautiful and varied regions
claudio
Hi, I'm looking for a Pino tandem bike for sale in Quebec and I can't find any. Does anyone have any info, please? Thanks a bunch!
Hi there, we’re planning a Munich to Venice bike trip at the end of June 2026. Getting back from Venice to Toulouse by train with 4 bikes isn’t straightforward. What return options have others who’ve done this trip chosen? Any tips or great deals would be much appreciated. Thanks a bunch! !
Hi everyone,
Happy owner of a Pegasus Estremo bike with a Rohloff hub, which is giving me trouble with the SF11-NCX-FT-E-LITE 700C TS 300/0 fork (serial number TD01329060). It’s starting to show its age, and I’d like to repair it to extend the life of my beloved bike.
The suspension is gone, and there’s an oil leak from the seals.
Does anyone know how to repair it? Where can I find parts that are about fifteen years old? Or where to find an identical replacement fork? Just to clarify, the Magura HS11 brakes are mounted using Firm Tech, meaning they’re on pivots behind the fork, facing the frame.
Thanks for your help! Have a great day, Alexandre
The suspension is gone, and there’s an oil leak from the seals.
Does anyone know how to repair it? Where can I find parts that are about fifteen years old? Or where to find an identical replacement fork? Just to clarify, the Magura HS11 brakes are mounted using Firm Tech, meaning they’re on pivots behind the fork, facing the frame.
Thanks for your help! Have a great day, Alexandre
Hi, I'd like to know if anyone has done this route recently or has reliable info.
Does the track exist, and most importantly, is there sand (for biking)?
Any info is welcome.
Cheers,
diego ambilobe: mangaoka, manondro, ramena vohemar sambava: masondrono, tanambao
diego ambilobe: mangaoka, manondro, ramena vohemar sambava: masondrono, tanambao
Hi there,
New to bike touring,
I’d love to start with a section of the Via Rhona to explore and share (route to be decided).
Looking forward to exchanging tips!
hey everyone,
I’m landing in Madagascar with a buddy before the end of April 2026. We’re planning to bike around for about twenty days or so. We don’t have a specific goal other than exploring the country and meeting the locals.
Ideally, we’d prefer a loop route starting from Antananarivo with a good chunk of it along the coast. On the bike side, we’re used to riding 6 to 8 hours a day, depending on the needs, encounters, and mood 😉 Any feedback or tips from trips around this length?
Thanks in advance, Jérôme
I’m landing in Madagascar with a buddy before the end of April 2026. We’re planning to bike around for about twenty days or so. We don’t have a specific goal other than exploring the country and meeting the locals.
Ideally, we’d prefer a loop route starting from Antananarivo with a good chunk of it along the coast. On the bike side, we’re used to riding 6 to 8 hours a day, depending on the needs, encounters, and mood 😉 Any feedback or tips from trips around this length?
Thanks in advance, Jérôme
A big thank you to Lazarou for all the info you share in this forum!
I'm passionate about Morocco, which I cycled through back in 2009.
Last year, my wife and I explored the High Atlas by tandem. Completely smitten, we're heading back in April (Anti Atlas) and May (High and Middle Atlas), still on our tandem.
Do you have any info on the track between Amezri and Ali Ait Nito? Are the river crossings in the Tessaout still there? It's not easy to navigate with a loaded tandem... especially if the river level is high due to this year's heavy snowmelt!
Thanks in advance for any tips you might have, and best wishes for health in this new year!
Thanks in advance for any tips you might have, and best wishes for health in this new year!
A shout-out to a cycling colleague from Savoie
Claudio specializes in the route of the Savoie lakes Here are his travels Between Bornes, Chartreuse, the Savoie foothills, and Dauphiné Five lakes: Léman, Annecy, Paladru, Aiguebelette, Bourget, not to mention a few ponds along the way Plenty of accommodation options: camping, hotels, and more...
A lovely route not far from his place Rural and quite peaceful A road cycling route created by Serge B...
N+1 reconnaissance trips on a loop of about 400 km This way, he avoids the SNCF and its troubles http://cbandiera.free.fr/vv/lacs-savoie/recos.php
The latest reconnaissance trip from April to May 2026 http://cbandiera.free.fr/recits/2026-grenoble-H/index.php
Claudio specializes in the route of the Savoie lakes Here are his travels Between Bornes, Chartreuse, the Savoie foothills, and Dauphiné Five lakes: Léman, Annecy, Paladru, Aiguebelette, Bourget, not to mention a few ponds along the way Plenty of accommodation options: camping, hotels, and more...
A lovely route not far from his place Rural and quite peaceful A road cycling route created by Serge B...
N+1 reconnaissance trips on a loop of about 400 km This way, he avoids the SNCF and its troubles http://cbandiera.free.fr/vv/lacs-savoie/recos.php
The latest reconnaissance trip from April to May 2026 http://cbandiera.free.fr/recits/2026-grenoble-H/index.php
First of all... happy New Year! Wishing you great roads in 2017!
I’ve been traveling for a few years now with a high-quality mountain bike, but it’s equipped with hydraulic disc brakes. I live (pedal) with the constant worry of a breakdown (leak, air bubble, heat causing the fluid to...). My bike mechanic tells me it’s impossible to switch them out for V-brakes.
What do you all think? Am I taking a big risk continuing (alone) with these brakes? Thanks in advance for your great tips!
Hi everyone,
First post here to share a quick recap of our west-to-east bike trip along Algeria’s coast in January 2025. It was just the two of us—my partner and I—with French passports and not a word of Arabic. No friends or welcoming hosts in the country.
Under those conditions, we’d strongly advise against going.
Our original plan was to follow the coast from Algiers to Tunis. We ended up cycling from Algiers to Béjaia, then took the train from Béjaia to Annaba (with a stop in Constantine), and finally biked to the border. We were tailed by police the whole way—whether on our bikes, on the train, or even on foot while exploring towns. On top of that, we couldn’t wild camp and were limited to the few state-approved hotels that accept foreigners. Under those circumstances, connecting with locals was especially tough.
With such an omnipresent and intrusive police presence, we’d definitely recommend against this destination for bike touring. A really sad situation that completely cuts you off from the local population...
We’d been warned, we went to check it out, and we weren’t disappointed!
You’ve been warned.
First post here to share a quick recap of our west-to-east bike trip along Algeria’s coast in January 2025. It was just the two of us—my partner and I—with French passports and not a word of Arabic. No friends or welcoming hosts in the country.
Under those conditions, we’d strongly advise against going.
Our original plan was to follow the coast from Algiers to Tunis. We ended up cycling from Algiers to Béjaia, then took the train from Béjaia to Annaba (with a stop in Constantine), and finally biked to the border. We were tailed by police the whole way—whether on our bikes, on the train, or even on foot while exploring towns. On top of that, we couldn’t wild camp and were limited to the few state-approved hotels that accept foreigners. Under those circumstances, connecting with locals was especially tough.
With such an omnipresent and intrusive police presence, we’d definitely recommend against this destination for bike touring. A really sad situation that completely cuts you off from the local population...
We’d been warned, we went to check it out, and we weren’t disappointed!
You’ve been warned.
Hi there,
I’m planning the route to cycle from Lille to Nordkapp with my partner.
Duration: 3 months, from May 1st to July 31st, 2026.
In the attached details below, I need to add some "non-riding" days (rest days, basically).
So I’m looking to "shorten" the trip by taking ferries or trains for some stretches. Which areas could I skip?
Thanks in advance for your great tips.
Have a good evening.
https://www.komoot.com/fr-fr/collection/4023980/-lille-cap-nord-1er-mai-au-31-juillet-2026?ref=collection
Hi there,
I’m planning to bike back from Poland this summer. Does anyone know a way to ship it there without having to take it apart? Otherwise, it’s a real hassle to fine-tune all the settings before departure! Thanks in advance.
I’m planning to bike back from Poland this summer. Does anyone know a way to ship it there without having to take it apart? Otherwise, it’s a real hassle to fine-tune all the settings before departure! Thanks in advance.
Hi, has anyone recently bought Primus or Butagaz gas, possibly puncture-style, in Dubrovnik or the surrounding area? Same question for Albania... thanks. aichatou
Hi there,
Coming from Laos (*), I’m planning to enter Thailand by bike via the Fourth Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge.
Before this bridge was built, I’d already cycled the road from Louang Namtha to Houei Sai and crossed the river by boat to reach Thailand.
At the time, the condition of that road was impeccable, and most importantly, traffic was light.
So I’m wondering if anyone who’s taken it recently can tell me whether traffic has increased since the bridge opened.
Thanks in advance!
(*) I’m currently cycling in China (Yunnan)
Coming from Laos (*), I’m planning to enter Thailand by bike via the Fourth Thai–Lao Friendship Bridge.
Before this bridge was built, I’d already cycled the road from Louang Namtha to Houei Sai and crossed the river by boat to reach Thailand.
At the time, the condition of that road was impeccable, and most importantly, traffic was light.
So I’m wondering if anyone who’s taken it recently can tell me whether traffic has increased since the bridge opened.
Thanks in advance!
(*) I’m currently cycling in China (Yunnan)
Hi there,
Just a few words about the loop I did by bike in Yunnan.
Entry and exit
I entered China through the Sino-Vietnamese border crossing at Lào Cai / Hekou under the 30-day visa exemption currently available to French nationals and others.
The process was simple and quick. A Chinese police officer even helped me complete my electronic pre-registration at a computer kiosk. I wasn’t aware this formality was required—it’s similar to Thailand’s TM6.
No issues with the bike.
I left the country via the Sino-Laotian border crossing at Mohan / Boten.
The atmosphere was a bit chaotic there, but again, no problems with the bike.
The timing
I visited Yunnan in February 2026.
Weather-wise, at higher altitudes (between 1,500 and 2,000 meters), it was around ten degrees at night and in the mornings, and around twenty degrees at the hottest part of the day.
I had two days of rain, so I took the bus to keep moving. Otherwise, clear blue skies.
Culturally, Chinese New Year fell on February 17th (and the 15 days following), right in the middle of my trip. Because of this, my take on the traffic might be off.
Accommodation and food I always found a hotel to stay in for prices ranging from 8 to 15 €. Except in Kunming (the capital), where many hotels were fully booked (Chinese New Year). I ended up at a 100 € hotel with great value for money.
A bowl of noodles costs about 1.5 € on average.
Onboard electronics Since my smartphone doesn’t support eSIMs, I subscribed to a China plan with my carrier. Otherwise, for much cheaper, Alipay offers eSIMs for foreigners that allow access to services usually blocked for Chinese users (WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.).
An internet connection is essential for paying with Alipay or WeChat, as this payment method is widespread.
I only managed to use Alipay.
Either way, always carry cash because sometimes there’s no signal, or the merchant only accepts WeChat.
Also, it’s best to bring a power adapter when you arrive rather than struggling to find one.
Traffic and roads The Chinese aren’t reckless drivers. They follow traffic rules and watch out for cyclists. This is slightly less true in Xishuangbanna (the region bordering Myanmar and Laos).
In urban areas, there are almost always wide bike lanes, separated from other roads, where bikes, electric mini-scooters, and scooters share the space pretty harmoniously.
The roads are in great condition, and traffic is generally manageable—even light—except for one stretch (Eshan -> Yangwu).
Most traffic is absorbed by expressways, China’s equivalent of highways: toll roads that are off-limits to slow vehicles.
You’re never far from these expressways; sometimes you even ride alongside them, which can be noisy at times.
The climbs are usually reasonable, around 5% to 6%. From what I remember, the steepest section was between Menglun and Mengla, with gradients of 8% to 10%, sometimes more.
Riding at these altitudes—though modest—took a bit of getting used to.
The route I didn’t plan anything in advance. My only goal was to reach Kunming. I don’t know why, but just hearing the name of that city, like Yunnan, always felt dreamy to me.
Here’s the breakdown: Hekou -> Man Hao (94 km); Man Hao -> Yuanyang (64 km); Yuanyang -> Jianshui (bus); Jianshui -> Tong Hai (78 km); Tong Hai -> Chenjiang (85 km); Chenjiang -> Kunming (60 km); Kunming -> Kunyang (60 km); Kunyang -> Eshan (67 km); Eshan -> Yangwu (58 km); Yangwu -> Yuanjiang (59 km); Yuanjiang -> Pu'er (bus); Pu'er -> Dadugang (75 km); Dadugang -> Jinghong (80 km); Jinghong -> Menglun (67 km); Menglun -> Mengyuancun (51 km); Mengyuancun -> Mengla (43 km); Mengla -> Boten (67 km).
Otherwise, I’m currently in Thailand and just hoping my return flight with Qatar won’t get canceled.
Oh well... 😉
Just a few words about the loop I did by bike in Yunnan.
Entry and exit
I entered China through the Sino-Vietnamese border crossing at Lào Cai / Hekou under the 30-day visa exemption currently available to French nationals and others.
The process was simple and quick. A Chinese police officer even helped me complete my electronic pre-registration at a computer kiosk. I wasn’t aware this formality was required—it’s similar to Thailand’s TM6.
No issues with the bike.
I left the country via the Sino-Laotian border crossing at Mohan / Boten.
The atmosphere was a bit chaotic there, but again, no problems with the bike.
The timing
I visited Yunnan in February 2026.
Weather-wise, at higher altitudes (between 1,500 and 2,000 meters), it was around ten degrees at night and in the mornings, and around twenty degrees at the hottest part of the day.
I had two days of rain, so I took the bus to keep moving. Otherwise, clear blue skies.
Culturally, Chinese New Year fell on February 17th (and the 15 days following), right in the middle of my trip. Because of this, my take on the traffic might be off.
Accommodation and food I always found a hotel to stay in for prices ranging from 8 to 15 €. Except in Kunming (the capital), where many hotels were fully booked (Chinese New Year). I ended up at a 100 € hotel with great value for money.
A bowl of noodles costs about 1.5 € on average.
Onboard electronics Since my smartphone doesn’t support eSIMs, I subscribed to a China plan with my carrier. Otherwise, for much cheaper, Alipay offers eSIMs for foreigners that allow access to services usually blocked for Chinese users (WhatsApp, Facebook, etc.).
An internet connection is essential for paying with Alipay or WeChat, as this payment method is widespread.
I only managed to use Alipay.
Either way, always carry cash because sometimes there’s no signal, or the merchant only accepts WeChat.
Also, it’s best to bring a power adapter when you arrive rather than struggling to find one.
Traffic and roads The Chinese aren’t reckless drivers. They follow traffic rules and watch out for cyclists. This is slightly less true in Xishuangbanna (the region bordering Myanmar and Laos).
In urban areas, there are almost always wide bike lanes, separated from other roads, where bikes, electric mini-scooters, and scooters share the space pretty harmoniously.
The roads are in great condition, and traffic is generally manageable—even light—except for one stretch (Eshan -> Yangwu).
Most traffic is absorbed by expressways, China’s equivalent of highways: toll roads that are off-limits to slow vehicles.
You’re never far from these expressways; sometimes you even ride alongside them, which can be noisy at times.
The climbs are usually reasonable, around 5% to 6%. From what I remember, the steepest section was between Menglun and Mengla, with gradients of 8% to 10%, sometimes more.
Riding at these altitudes—though modest—took a bit of getting used to.
The route I didn’t plan anything in advance. My only goal was to reach Kunming. I don’t know why, but just hearing the name of that city, like Yunnan, always felt dreamy to me.
Here’s the breakdown: Hekou -> Man Hao (94 km); Man Hao -> Yuanyang (64 km); Yuanyang -> Jianshui (bus); Jianshui -> Tong Hai (78 km); Tong Hai -> Chenjiang (85 km); Chenjiang -> Kunming (60 km); Kunming -> Kunyang (60 km); Kunyang -> Eshan (67 km); Eshan -> Yangwu (58 km); Yangwu -> Yuanjiang (59 km); Yuanjiang -> Pu'er (bus); Pu'er -> Dadugang (75 km); Dadugang -> Jinghong (80 km); Jinghong -> Menglun (67 km); Menglun -> Mengyuancun (51 km); Mengyuancun -> Mengla (43 km); Mengla -> Boten (67 km).
Otherwise, I’m currently in Thailand and just hoping my return flight with Qatar won’t get canceled.
Oh well... 😉