French Maritime Alps

The Côte d'Azur is the name of the Mediterranean coast in south-east France. The Maritime Alps, the "Alpes Maritimes", rise to the east of the river valley through which the Var flows into the sea. Italy (Ventimiglia, San Remo) is just under an hour's drive away. The largest city in the region is Nice (350,000 inhabitants). It is 25 kilometres from there to the starting point of the tours, Vence, which has 16,000 inhabitants. Vence lies 325 metres above sea level and is therefore one of the "villages perchés", the high villages from which you have wonderful views over the coastal strip between Cannes and Nice.

The densely populated coastal strip between Nice and Cannes is firmly in the hands of motorists. Cyclists use the generously developed cycle path, which leads between the beach and multi-lane roads through lively holiday resorts that merge seamlessly into one another. A new cycle path leads northwards along the eastern bank of the Var to Pont Louis Nucéra. Not far from the coast, the Maritime Alps rise up with veritable passes that demand a lot from the "cyclist", especially in the summer heat. The Col de Vence (962 m) is a favourite destination for the area's racing cyclists. A compact crank or triple set is recommended for those whose fitness level is "limite". North-west of Vence, the going is more leisurely, but it remains mountainous. The lonely country roads in the hinterland are in very good condition and virtually car-free. Nevertheless, you have to be careful: Some drivers speed as if they were rally Monte Carlo drivers. And in the gorges, boulders that have come loose from the walls can lie on the tarmac.

You can find the entire article in TOUR 10/2013 - to reorder the magazine ->

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GPS data: France: Maritime Alps