The best road cycling routes around Lagarde-D'Apt

There are over 90 road cycling routes around Lagarde-D'Apt, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 30,000 times.

Yes, the region is famous for challenging climbs. Lagarde-D'Apt is ideally positioned for tackling Mont Ventoux, with its three iconic ascents from Bédoin, Malaucène, and Sault. The village itself also features the demanding Montée de Lagarde, an 11.3 km climb with an average gradient of 6.8%.

Many routes offer stunning views. For example, the Aurel – View of the Sault Valley loop from Quartier Maréchal Koenig provides panoramic vistas of the Sault Valley. The Plateau de Sault, with its undulating lavender and wheat fields, also offers routes with views of Mont Ventoux and Lure Mountain.

While many routes involve climbs, the Luberon Regional Natural Park, close to Lagarde-D'Apt, offers the "Véloroute du Calavon." This paved greenway, built on a former railway line, provides a car-free and generally flatter experience suitable for families through the Luberon Valley.

The best time for road cycling is typically from spring to early autumn. July and August are particularly vibrant due to the blooming lavender fields on the Plateau de Sault, though these months can also be quite warm. Spring and early autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes.

You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from the dramatic, barren summit of Mont Ventoux to the vibrant purple lavender fields of the Plateau de Sault. The Luberon region offers distinctive ochre landscapes around villages like Rustrel and Roussillon, and the Gorge de la Nesque provides a ride through dramatic canyon scenery.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the Lavender and Old Stones Loop is a popular circular route traversing varied landscapes and historic villages. Another option is the View of the mountain – View of the Sault Valley loop from OPSR, which offers views of Mont Ventoux.

The region is rich in attractions. You can cycle past the dramatic Nesque gorges from Villes-sur-Auzon, explore the unique Provençal Colorado of Rustrel with its ochre cliffs, or visit charming villages like Sault, known for its lavender. Many routes also offer views of Mont Ventoux itself.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 800 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging mountain ascents to scenic rides through lavender fields, and the picturesque Provençal villages.

Yes, there are numerous moderate routes. For example, the Apt – Saint-Saturnin-lès-Apt Market loop from Rustrel is a moderate 31.5 km path. Another option is the Simiane-la-Rotonde – View of the Fairy Chimneys loop from OPSR, which offers a balanced challenge with scenic views.

Many routes start from or pass through the charming villages in the area, such as Sault, Aurel, or Saint-Trinit on the Plateau de Sault, and villages within the Luberon. These villages typically offer public parking facilities, making them convenient starting points for your rides.