Provence - Cycling Around the Luberon, EuroVelo 8, and Other Bike Routes

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.

hi there, .

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.

Absolutely! You could also add Saignon, Auribeau, Saint-Martin-de-Castillon, Buoux, Sivergues, Castellet, and Roussillon... I lived in this area for about twenty years. 😏 I’ve explored the Luberon trails on foot more than I’ve cycled the roads, but you’re right: biking in the Luberon is totally worth it, and the small roads are really perfect and peaceful for cyclists—whether on the southern side (Durance) or the northern side with the Calavon greenway (Cavaillon/Apt/Manosque).

Yes, I have great memories of my tour around the Luberon.

Thanks for your kind words! :) It’s a wonderful extension of our amazing memories of the Luberon.

The interest in our stories has been significant enough that I’ve prepared a French translation. Maybe it can help introduce the region’s treasures to a French-speaking audience? :)

Cycling the Luberon - the most beautiful villages in Provence

By the way, I used AI for this translation. If you spot any errors or awkward phrasing, I apologize in advance and would really appreciate it if you let me know! :)

Have a great weekend!

S.