French Riviera Cycling — Col de Vence & Gourdon Loop
About this Route
← French Riviera Cycling GuideA spectacular loop from the Mediterranean coast into the mountains of the French Riviera — climbing from sea level at Cagnes-sur-Mer to the perched village of Gourdon and over Col de Vence at 962 metres before descending through the medieval town of Vence back to the coast. One of the finest rides on the Riviera, combining coastal scenery with dramatic alpine terrain in a single day.
Kilometre by Kilometre
Leave the Mediterranean coast and begin climbing immediately into the hinterland. The road winds through increasingly dramatic scenery towards Gourdon — a village perched on a clifftop at over 700 metres with extraordinary views back over the Riviera.
From Gourdon the route continues to Col de Vence at 962 metres — one of the most celebrated climbs on the French Riviera, featured in professional racing. The climb is 9.7 km at 6.5% average with the steepest sections near the top. The views from the summit extend across the Alpes-Maritimes.
A long, sweeping descent from the col brings you to the medieval town of Vence — narrow cobbled streets, a beautiful old town and excellent cafés. A natural stop before the final section back to the coast.
The final stretch follows the valley roads back down to the coast and Cagnes-sur-Mer. The Mediterranean comes back into view as the road descends — a satisfying finish to one of the Riviera's finest cycling days.
Gallery
French Riviera Cycling — Col de Vence & Gourdon Loop — Map & Elevation
Key Climbs
Pré du Lac → Gourdon
Cat 2Col de Vence (2nd half)
Cat 2Tips & Local Knowledge
- Start from the seafront at Cagnes-sur-Mer — within minutes you are climbing away from the coast into the Ligurian hills.
- Gourdon is a spectacular perched village on a clifftop with panoramic views over the Riviera — worth a stop to take it in.
- Col de Vence (962m) is a well-known climb on the French Riviera, featured in several professional races. The final ramps are the steepest.
- Vence is a beautiful medieval town at the foot of the descent — a good stop for coffee or food before the final run back to the coast.
- Always carry cash in the mountains — not all cafés and restaurants accept card on the higher sections.
- Pack a wind vest for the summit of Col de Vence — even on warm days at the coast, the top can be significantly colder.
Rider Reviews
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Route Details
For experienced cyclists. Significant elevation and demanding distances.