In the land of clues – grand tour of the Préalpes d'Azur

The Mediterranean hinterland around Nice, Cannes and Antibes is an inexhaustible playground for cycling enthusiasts. The speed with which you can go from the sea to an alpine environment is amazing. Going up these mountains will take you from an overcrowded coastline to a place that exudes serenity.

Entering the Préalpes d'Azur is a bit like entering a wonderland. Very quickly you will be surrounded by perched villages, small uncrowded roads, plains and karst plateaus. There are so many clues to explore! The clues are not, as their names might suggest, riddles to be solved. Instead, they are deep gorges formed by rivers with turquoise waters. They often consist of a succession of natural basins which are very suitable for canyoning. For example, the clue of Aiglun is, with its 300 metres (984 ft) of vertical cliffs, one of the most spectacular in France.

This Collection, which starts from the town of Grasse, follows the cycling route of the Grand Tour des Préalpes d'Azur. It covers 285 kilometres (177 km) over five stages and offers a very exotic journey. The average daily distance of 57 kilometres (35 mi) makes it accessible to all. Despite being challenging at times, this route will delight cycling enthusiasts.

The villages you pass through are each more beautiful than the next. Although they may look similar, they all have their own charm. Thorenc, Valderoure, Sigale, Saint-Antonin, Ascros, Toudon, Tourette-du-Château, Revest-les-Roches and Bouyon (to name but a few) are sure to seduce you.

The unspoilt landscapes you encounter along the way are enchanting. In addition to the clues of Saint-Auban, Riolan and Aiglun, you will discover the geological curiosities of the Calern plateau and the Caille polje. Don't miss a visit to the Monts d'Azur Biological Reserve, which is home to European bison and wild horses.

The town of Grasse, known for its perfumes, is at the beginning or end of the itinerary and is the urban chapter of this splendid route. Grasse is well served by regional trains which accept all bicycles. This is why I have chosen to start the route from this famous city’s train station.

The weather in this region is often very mild, so the route can be done from spring to autumn. However, avoid winter as you’ll be travelling at altitudes of over 1,000 metres (3,281 ft) and it’s not unusual to find snow until early spring.

My Collection of the French Alps will be ideal if you decide to extend your holiday in these special places. For more information, click the following link: komoot.fr/collection/1404212/de-cols-en-canyons-les-alpes-d-azur