Le Tour du Massif d'Uchaux
An intermediate ride, rich in history & passing through many vineyards
This circular route offers a variety of scenery and landscapes, with gently rolling hills to ensure a bit of downhill after any short climbs.
The Tour du massif d'Uchaux begins and ends in the historical and medieval town of Bollene. The centre is filled with small streets and old houses that wind their way up to the top of the hill where the Collegial Saint-Martin stands, with excellent views over the town, the Donzere-Mondragon canal and surrounding hills.
Along this route you will pass through the town of Uchaux itself, then on through Poilence and finally Serignan, before looping back through Uchaux and taking an alternate route back from there to Bollene.
Other major heritage sites along the way include the Romanesque chapel of the Penitents in Piolenc, medieval architecture in Serignan and the Chateau d'Uchaux.
This route can be cut short at either Les Farjons, creating a 16km loop to Bollene, or slightly further at Uchaux where you can loop back to Bollene creating a 24km circular. The full route is 42km and worth taking the extra time to see the sights and changing countryside - plus the option for a bathing stop in Piolenc is hard to resist on a hot summers day!
Distance : 42km
Time : 4.5hr
Vertical Gain : 120m
What to bring
IGN Map 163 (Avignon Nimes) covers this area.
- Water - One of the biggest problems in Provence in the summer is the heat. Fit two bottle cages to your bike and take 750ml bottles with electrolyte drinks.
- Sun Cream - The hot southern summer sun means you will burn quicker here than at home. And remember the backs of your hands if you are not wearing cycling gloves!
- Windbreaker - Although it may be warm in valleys temperatures can drop rapidly as you climb, weather can chage quickly and the fast descents can cool you down fast.
- Snacks - Energy Bars and gels are a very good idea if you are planning a day on the roads.
- Mobile Phone - Being able to contact someone to pick you up if your chain breaks is helpful.
- Money - You may need it in an emergency or just for a beer at the end of the day.
- Basic Repair Kit - You can't fix everything by the side of the road but not all breakdowns require the day to end.
