California – Palm Desert – DBC 1000 Palms
Saturday ride with Desert Bicycle Club. Typical desert ride with some amazing views, some depressing ones and an overwhelming sense of expansiveness. Be prepared for some speed if you go out with DBC.
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France – Var – Parc National de Port-Cros – Circuit de Briande
Stunning run in the Parc National de Port-Cros. One of the many marked trails available, Circuit de Briande tours the highlights of the two Caps.
France – Var – Trail des Roche Blanche 14k
While not as insane as the 30k+ race (the most difficult thing I’ve ever done), the 14k race is still one of the hardest in my history. Same scrambling up rocks and descending at speed over very uneven terrain. Absolutely incredible.
France – Var by Velo 26 – Les Balcons du Haut-Var
A deceptively difficult but relatively short ride that takes you into the mountains behind the A8 and about halfway to the Verdon Gorge. The route takes you on some busy main roads but the more remote/quieter sections are fantastic.
France – Var by Velo 17 – Hubac des Maures
Fantastic ride through the Plaine des Maures up into the foothills and vineyards. Some of it is a bit isolated but also passes through a couple of villages along the way.
France – Mont Ventoux and Gorge de la Nesque
This is an exceptional climb. This route is the Tour de France classic and should not be underestimated – prepare for anything and everything up on the hill as the weather is capricious. It is, however, worth every bit of pain. The Gorge is new to me but not to be missed.
Maures Loop – Collobrieres -> Col de Babaou -> Lavandou
Gorgeous ride through the heart of châtaigne country, a nice steady climb over to the coast and absolutely magnificent views the whole way back. Beautiful and just challenging enough.
France – Var by Velo 18 – L’Estérel
The front half of this ride – following the Var a Velo map – is absolutely stunning. However, the full course is not. About halfway in the course goes off road without warning and turns unrideable for a road bike due to all the rocks. Suggest following the Corniche d’Or routing or do this as an out and back instead – which is amazing enough!
California – Santa Barbara – Refugio
This is an absolute California classic. If you start at or near the coast you’ll be treated to a moderate start before the climb truly starts. The reward – as always in this part of the world is an absolutely stunning view of the coast from what feels like the top of the world.
Australia – Perth – Perth Hills Loop – Mundaring Wier and Kalamunda
Stunning tour of the Perth CBD up into the Perth Hills. Lots of climbing and some picturesque scenery. There are several places to stop for water but be extra careful on a hot day!