Exploring the Manosque Region by Bike
Between the Verdon, lavender fields, and wide-open spaces by bike
Table of Contents
Cycling in the Manosque Region
The Manosque Region is a must-visit destination for fans of road cycling, cycle touring, and mountain biking, gravel and e-bikes. Located between the Verdon Regional Nature Park, the famous Valensole Plateau, the Luberon hills, and the foothills of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence—the region offers an incredible diversity of landscapes and routes.
Here, every ride is an invitation to discover authentic Provence, where the roads wind through lavender fields, olive groves, vineyards, charming villages, and panoramic views of the Verdon. Thanks to a sunny climate for much of the year, the Manosque region is an ideal destination for cycling in any season.
Mountain biking enthusiasts can enjoy three areas certified by the French Cycling Federation. Provence Verdon Mountain Biking invites you to explore the trails of the Verdon, Lake Esparron, and the Valensole Plateau. Provence Luberon Lure Mountain Biking offers a variety of routes through the landscapes of the Luberon and the hills of the Lure Mountains. Finally, VTT Pays d'Oraison – Cœur de Durance rounds out this offering with trails suitable for all skill levels, winding through hills, forests, and preserved natural areas.
Road bike enthusiasts will also find what they’re looking for thanks to theEspace Cyclosport du Pays de Manosque, which offers numerous marked routes for exploring the destination’s most beautiful landscapes. From family-friendly routes to more challenging rides, everyone can cycle at their own pace through Provençal villages, valleys, plateaus, and scenic roads.
The region is also crisscrossed by The Lavender Routes by Bike, an iconic route connecting Provence’s most beautiful lavender landscapes. Gravel cyclists, meanwhile, will enjoy the many farm trails and paths that crisscross the Valensole Plateau, the surrounding hills, and the region’s natural areas.
To make cycling trips easier, the Pays de Manosque offers a wide range of certified accommodations Accueil Vélo, specialized bike rental and repair shops, charging stations for e-bikes, and services tailored to cyclists. This comprehensive offering makes the Pays de Manosque a premier destination for exploring Haute-Provence by bike.
Suggested Bike Routes
Cycling Events
In the Manosque region, cycling is a year-round activity. From friendly rides to sports competitions and festive events, the region offers numerous gatherings that bring together cycling, mountain biking, and gravel enthusiasts in an exceptional natural setting.
La Vuelta in Manosque – Our Favorite ❤️
As an official stage town for La Vuelta, the famous Tour of Spain, Manosque is hosting one of the biggest events in international cycling. For the occasion, the city is decked out in the race’s colors and offers a festive program centered around cycling. The event will take place on August 23, featuring the stage finish and numerous activities. Leading up to the event, La Vuelta for Everyone invites young and old alike to hop on their bikes for a fun-filled day that’s open to everyone.
Bike & Beer Mountain Biking – Gréoux-les-Bains
Combining sports and camaraderie, the Bike & Beer Mountain Biking is a ride that lets you explore the trails of Gréoux-les-Bains in a relaxed atmosphere.
Le Verdon des Collines – Rando d’Or
Held annually around November 11, Le Verdon des Collines is a popular event among mountain bikers.
Christmas Mountain Bike Rally
In early December, the Christmas Mountain Bike Rally wraps up the season in a festive atmosphere. Scheduled for this year on December 6.
Summer in the Pays de Manosque
Beyond cycling, the Manosque Region is an ideal destination to enjoy summer in Haute-Provence.
Visitors can explore:
- Explore the lavender fields of Valensole Plateau.
- Enjoy water sports on the Lake Esparron-de-Verdon.
- Stroll through the Provençal markets.
- Visit charming villages.
- Meet lavender growers and visit distilleries.
- Explore the hiking trails.
- Discover the world of Jean Giono in Manosque.
- Recharge at the thermal baths in Gréoux-les-Bains.
Back to Fall and Spring
Each season offers a new way to discover the region.
- In the spring: the landscapes are adorned with the colors of poppies and orchards in bloom.
- Fall: particularly popular with cyclists thanks to mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
- Winter: offers the chance to discover authentic Provence, with its markets, historic sites, sunny walks, and peaceful villages.
Other Events
Among the must-see events:
- Les Correspondances de Manosque: one of France’s largest literary festivals.
- Musiks in Manosque: a festival that brings the town to life with an eclectic lineup.
- Rosé Day in Pierrevert: a festive day dedicated to rosé wines from the Pierrevert appellation.
- Gréoux de Janeiro: a colorful carnival.
- The Santons Fair in Gréoux-les-Bains: a must-see event celebrating Provençal traditions.
- The Lavender Festival in Valensole: held in the heart of summer.
- The Almond Festival in Oraison: a gourmet event.
- Prehistoric Days in Quinson: a journey into the region’s history.
- The Transhumance Festival in Vinon-sur-Verdon: every spring.
Services
Visitors have access to a wide range of services:
- Pays de Manosque Tourism and Convention Bureau, with its 6 tourist information offices (Manosque, Oraison, Gréoux-les-Bains, Valensole, Riez, Quinson)
- Certified accommodations Accueil Vélo
- Hotels
- Campgrounds
- Bed and Breakfasts
- Vacation Rentals
- Restaurants
- Bike Rentals
- Shops
- Electric vehicle charging stations
- Parking Lots
Directions
- A51 Highway (Manosque exits)
- Manosque-Gréoux-les-Bains SNCF Train Station
- Aix-en-Provence TGV Station (about 1 hour)
- Marseille-Provence Airport (about 1 hour 15 minutes)
- Regional bus network Zou!
Testimonials
“A superb route, with some really beautiful technical descents... magnificent scenery once you reach Lake Esparron. A few very tough climbs, but over very short distances. Go for it!”
“ A very hilly route, more of an enduro-style ride, with numerous technical descents and climbs. Some very pretty views that add to the riding experience. »
“The ride on the Valensole Plateau—pure joy! There was a minor issue with the trail markings, but thanks to the recommended app, it was very easy to find our way. I highly recommend it. »
“Great equipment, good advice on things to do in the area. A wonderful day on the Valensole Plateau. »
“ An excellent experience with superb electric mountain bikes. Challenging trails with climbs, descents, and magnificent scenery. »
FAQ
When is the best time to explore the Valensole Plateau by bike?
From mid-June to mid-July to enjoy the lavender in bloom. Spring and fall also offer ideal conditions for cycling.
Is the Manosque region suitable for e-bikes?
Yes. The routes are accessible by e-bike, and several accommodations as well as certain services offer charging options.
Are there any “Accueil Vélo” accommodations?
Yes. Several establishments in the region have been certified Accueil Vélo certification and offer services tailored to cyclists.
Is gravel biking possible in the Pays de Manosque?
Yes. The area offers numerous farm roads and trails that let you explore the Valensole Plateau and its surroundings in a different way.