recommended route
FFC cycling route no. 13: the tour of the perched villages of the Var valley
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AspremontPhoto: Frédéric Aguilhon, Metropole Nice Côte d'Azur
Set off to discover the Var valley from the terraces of both banks, this is the route of the perched villages that awaits the more athletic with the highlight being the climb of La Roquette-sur-Var, still hot from many editions of the Paris-Nice race.
Discover the many fountains offered to cyclists, pouring clear and very fresh water planted right in the middle of picturesque village squares crossed. The ideal opportunity to make a stop and refill bottles.
Climb the Roquette climb, a classic for local cyclists, Paris-Nice and hill climb car races. Many sporting events use this renowned slope of the Var valley. The road passes under the perched village at 380 meters altitude. La Roquette-sur-Var overlooks the Var and Estéron valleys at their confluence point. A small detour through the village allows you to discover the viewpoint, a real leading figure, the view embraces the landscape from the sea to the highest peaks of the Mercantour.
The route continues along the Sculptors' Road between Levens and Saint-Blaise where you can visit the museum, an olive oil production site, where there is a ceramics workshop and where many visual artists and painters exhibit;
Author’s recommendation
Sporting route - FFC Red color
All outdoor activities of the Nice Côte d'Azur Metropolis are available on https://outdoor.nicecotedazur.org
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
Track types
Show elevation profileSafety information
Emergency number: 112
BASIC RULES
- Choose a route suited to your physical condition, do not overestimate your abilities
- Get information before setting off about mountain weather and the opening of cols
- Remember to carry an ID and an emergency contact number
- Respect traffic lights
- Preferably use bike paths when they exist, that is to say, a sign can oblige you if:
- the bike path sign is square: you decide.
- If it is round, you must use this route.
- Respect the environment and other road users
GOOD PRACTICES FOR GROUP RIDING
- Riding two abreast is authorized, but single file is required:
- at nightfall or when visibility is poor;
- when a vehicle wanting to overtake signals its approach.
- In case of breakdown, move to the bottom edge of the road and not on the road
- At 'Stop', yellow light, fixed or flashing red light, come to a full stop for the entire group.
- Communicate within the group and use verbal signals and gestures to warn of an obstacle or vehicle. A simple gesture or word can prevent a fall or accident.
Tips and suggestions
To learn more about our destination, visit our website
Public transport
Public-transport-friendly
High-speed and express trains (TGV, corail train) connect the Côte d'Azur to all French regions and major cities in Europe.
Find bus routes at: https://www.lignesdazur.com
Get Timetable to destination
Directions
Served by the A8 highway "La Provençale", coming from Aix-en-Provence to the West and the border to the East.
Exit no. 52: Saint-Isidore
Direction Digne
Parking
Parking near the starting point.Coordinates
Equipment
Before setting off:
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Wear an approved helmet
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Check the condition of your tires and brakes
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Take a repair kit in case of puncture
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Prefer at least a flashing LED light to fix on the seat post to be seen by motorists, especially in the small tunnels that are common in the Metropolis
- Remember that the Highway Code applies to cyclists in all circumstances
- Respect other users as you would like them to respect you
- Inform those around you of your route
- An emergency first aid kit is not essential, but can be very useful
- Get information and keep emergency numbers handy.
- Respect the environment by not throwing food wrappers on the roadside
Localization
Derived from the technical difficulty and the stamina requirements.
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