French Riviera Cycling — Vence & Gourdon Loop

A classic and demanding loop from the Mediterranean coast into the mountains behind Nice and Antibes — combining two of the most celebrated climbs on the French Riviera in a single day. From Cagnes-sur-Mer at sea level, the route climbs first to the medieval town of Vence, then continues to the spectacular perched village of Gourdon at the highest point of the route, before sweeping back down to the coast.

Gourdon is one of the most dramatic viewpoints on the entire Riviera — a village on a clifftop with a 360-degree panorama stretching from the Alps to the Mediterranean. At 82 kilometres with 1,476 metres of climbing, this is a shorter but punchy alternative to the longer Col de Vence loop, and an ideal route for riders wanting to experience the best of the Riviera hinterland without committing to a full day.