Cycle tour: Col du Babaou & Pierrefeu-du-Var

Pedal through the vines of Provence

This sporty loop is perfect for holidaymakers keen to explore our typical inland scenery. But it does come with challenges – the slopes are steep!

You will be heading out on your adventure through wooded landscapes directly from Les Jardins de La Pascalinette® campsite. Steeped in the atmosphere of the inland Mediterranean countryside, far from the coastal clichés of the Côte d’Azur, get ready for a rugged ride that promises to build your stamina! Col de Babaou mountain pass is a local classic listed in Nos Coins de Paradis® (Our Corners of Paradise). It is an ideal challenge for “sporty holiday” fans, with a slope climbing to 410 metres!

Length & difficulty

You’ll need 3 to 4 hours to do the entire loop (according to your level, number of breaks and fatigue on the last kilometres leading to the mountain pass). The slope is steep but regular, so recommended for trained cyclists. This tour is not suitable for families: due to the slope, length and summer heat, it is definitely not an easy-going Sunday outing! If you’re keen to give it a go, please ensure you and your bike are both in good shape!

Route & safety

Traffic is a little heavier in summer, so cyclists need to be careful on the tight bends lined with vegetation, where visibility is reduced and drivers may not be expecting cyclists.

From the campsite, head immediately onto the D98 road, then take the Route de Valcros towards Collobrières.

The southern slope leading to Col de Babaou is progressive. At the top, the expansive views over the Maures hills are a real joy to behold and, if the weather is clear, a discreet reminder that the Mediterranean Sea is never far away.

After the climb, enjoy a well-earned drink while you lap up the view. You can then continue on the same road to Collobrières – we recommend visiting this picturesque village as it will only add 20 short minutes to your overall journey.

Next, pedal back down towards Pierrefeu-du-Var on the D14 road – a typical local village surrounded by vines. The road is agreeable and easy-going here, so your aching thighs can finally savour a rest! The village centre is modest but pleasant, with a square, cafés and supplies. The return journey to La Londe on the D12 then D88 roads is globally downhill and easier with reasonable traffic, although you will need to remain very vigilant on the sections without verges.

Points of interest

• Panoramic views from the pass: breathtaking scenery encompassing the Maures hills and distant coast.
• Maures forest: alternating pines and cork oaks and offering delightful shade.
• Pierrefeu-du-Var: a charming Provençal village and welcome place to rest!
• Homeward journey: lush vines contrasting with the mountain scenery of Babaou.

In  short

This is a demanding loop but ideal for cyclists keen to incorporate some serious sport into their stay. The scenery is varied, the mountain pass iconic and the Provençal villages pretty, with a nice, tranquil return run. The route is authentic and typical of the Côte d’Azur’s inland countryside, but high-flying enough to warrant a cold shower when you get back to the campsite (or a rejuvenating dip in our water park Zen space!