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Tour des Gorges de la Nesque
Cycling Route
Details
65.37 km
815 m
Sault to Saint-Hubert: A Journey Through Lavender Fields
The adventure begins in Sault, a picturesque village perched on a hill, surrounded by lavender fields. Sault’s history dates back to the Roman era, and it has thrived throughout the centuries, thanks to its strategic location and agricultural significance. The gentle 2.82 km ride with a 1.1% gradient from Sault to Poivre d'Ane serves as the perfect warm-up.
The Climb to Saint-Jean-de-Sault
As you ascend the 5 km climb with a moderate 2.2% gradient, you reach Saint-Jean-de-Sault, a small, tranquil village rich in Provençal charm. This village was once a stopover for pilgrims traveling through the region. Its quiet atmosphere and ancient stone houses are a window into Provence’s past.
Montée de Saint-Hubert and the Final Sprint
Continuing the climb to Saint-Hubert, you are greeted with a soft ascent of 3.89 km at a 1.1% gradient. Saint-Hubert is known for its pastoral landscapes, and the route takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Provence. The final sprint at 0.3 km adds a fun challenge before reaching the descent into the stunning Gorges de la Nesque.
The Gorges de la Nesque: A Natural Masterpiece
One of the highlights of this route is the descent into the Gorges de la Nesque, a breathtaking natural canyon with towering limestone cliffs. The 18.6 km climb through the gorges offers a gentle 2.3% gradient, allowing riders to fully enjoy the incredible scenery. This geological marvel has been a part of the local landscape for millennia, carved by the Nesque River. Its dramatic vistas and rock formations make it one of the most beautiful rides in Provence.
Villes-sur-Auzon and Méthamis
The route also passes through Villes-sur-Auzon, a village with a long history dating back to Roman times, and Méthamis, a medieval village that was once a fortified stronghold. Both offer a blend of ancient charm and scenic beauty, perfect for a short stop to explore or rest.
The Final Ascent and Return to Sault
After the descent from Méthamis, the route takes you back through small climbs and rolling hills, passing through historic sites and natural wonders. The final part of the journey includes a series of climbs, such as the Grand Valat, with its 12.6% gradient, before the final sprint towards Sault.
This route, which spans historical villages, natural gorges, and lavender fields, offers a perfect mix of challenge and beauty. It’s a ride through time and nature, capturing the essence of Provence’s landscapes and heritage.
The adventure begins in Sault, a picturesque village perched on a hill, surrounded by lavender fields. Sault’s history dates back to the Roman era, and it has thrived throughout the centuries, thanks to its strategic location and agricultural significance. The gentle 2.82 km ride with a 1.1% gradient from Sault to Poivre d'Ane serves as the perfect warm-up.
The Climb to Saint-Jean-de-Sault
As you ascend the 5 km climb with a moderate 2.2% gradient, you reach Saint-Jean-de-Sault, a small, tranquil village rich in Provençal charm. This village was once a stopover for pilgrims traveling through the region. Its quiet atmosphere and ancient stone houses are a window into Provence’s past.
Montée de Saint-Hubert and the Final Sprint
Continuing the climb to Saint-Hubert, you are greeted with a soft ascent of 3.89 km at a 1.1% gradient. Saint-Hubert is known for its pastoral landscapes, and the route takes you through some of the most scenic parts of Provence. The final sprint at 0.3 km adds a fun challenge before reaching the descent into the stunning Gorges de la Nesque.
The Gorges de la Nesque: A Natural Masterpiece
One of the highlights of this route is the descent into the Gorges de la Nesque, a breathtaking natural canyon with towering limestone cliffs. The 18.6 km climb through the gorges offers a gentle 2.3% gradient, allowing riders to fully enjoy the incredible scenery. This geological marvel has been a part of the local landscape for millennia, carved by the Nesque River. Its dramatic vistas and rock formations make it one of the most beautiful rides in Provence.
Villes-sur-Auzon and Méthamis
The route also passes through Villes-sur-Auzon, a village with a long history dating back to Roman times, and Méthamis, a medieval village that was once a fortified stronghold. Both offer a blend of ancient charm and scenic beauty, perfect for a short stop to explore or rest.
The Final Ascent and Return to Sault
After the descent from Méthamis, the route takes you back through small climbs and rolling hills, passing through historic sites and natural wonders. The final part of the journey includes a series of climbs, such as the Grand Valat, with its 12.6% gradient, before the final sprint towards Sault.
This route, which spans historical villages, natural gorges, and lavender fields, offers a perfect mix of challenge and beauty. It’s a ride through time and nature, capturing the essence of Provence’s landscapes and heritage.