The Maritime Alps is an ideal cycling vacation destination, with everything from beautiful seaside bike paths to epic mountain climbs. - Learn more

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Cycling the Maritime Alps

The Maritime Alps and the French Riviera are home to many legendary mountain passes, ranging from Category 4 climbs to epic Hors Categorie cols that have been featured in the Tour de France and Paris-Nice.

There are also flat and rolling roads along the seaside and in the hills, so everyone can find suitable terrain. Coastal cities like Nice, Cannes, Antibes and Monaco are close to some bucket-list climbs like the Col de la Madone, the Col de Braus, the Col d’Eze, the Col de Vence and the Col de Turini. As you head inland towards the Mercantour Park, the mountains get higher so that means bigger climbs and more epic views on your way up!

Gravel in the Maritime Alps

The gravel in the Maritime Alps can be quite technical and you need to know where to go. The better paths are outside the cities, and many of them require transport by car or train to start the rides.

Spots to ride

Planning your cycling trip

2. Choosing when to book:

Maritime Alps in Summer

Summer can be quite warm in the Maritime Alps (25 - 30+ degrees C) though the humidity is usually low. It rarely rains by the coast in the summer, and in the mountains the best time to ride is the morning as there are sometimes afternoon thunderstorms.

Best website for weather reports?
meteofrance.com

Summer Road Conditions

In the summer it is usually very crowded towards the coast. If you’re staying in one of the seaside cities, be prepared to deal with some traffic getting into the mountains.

Best website for road reports?
inforoutes06.fr

Travelling in Summer

If you want to focus on your cycling and don’t need to spend a lot of time on the beach or in a big city, you may want to stay inland. If you’d like the best of both worlds there are some nice spots by the coast - but be prepared to deal with some traffic at the start and finish of rides, and high tourist season prices.

Best local airport?
nice.aeroport.fr

3. Know who to speak with:

Always speak with a local expert BEFORE booking your trip. Valuable local knowledge will ensure you get the most out of your cycling holiday.



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More spots for cyclists

Around the Maritime Alps
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CyclingSpots proudly supports local businesses promoting cycling tourism in the Maritime Alps.