PISA TO SAINT TROPEZ DIGITAL CYCLE GUIDE

CYCLE LIGURIA AND THE COTE D’AZUR

Liguria is the crescent shaped region in Italy's northwest sitting between the Alps and the Mediterranean (Ligurian) sea, otherwise known as the Italian Riviera. To the west joining seamlessly with it’s French cousin, the Cote D’Azur, and to the east are the famous five fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. all together, a picturesque paradise for cyclists of all abilities.

This ride follows long stretches of beautiful coastline, cycle paths through the cool air of converted railway tunnels and inland, venturing into the foothills of the alps to be rewarded with dramatic sea views.

The French Riviera; stunning beaches, fast cars, fabulous food…and a playground for cyclists. It’s all here from the sea views on the rolling coastal roads, the red rock landscapes of Massif D’esterel to the famous mountains passes.

The ride covers the full stretch of coastline from Menton and Roque Brune Cap Martin, the first towns in France after the Italian border, before arriving in Monaco then on to Nice, Antibes, Cannes, the Massif D’Esterel and finally Saint Tropez.

This digital travel guide comes bundled with GPX files for navigating the complete route in five stages. Our rides are designed for cyclists of all abilities, each stage can be completed in a day, however aim for more or less according to your schedule, fitness & the weather. There are many places to see and stay on route so set your own pace and plan your rest stops to suit.

Stage 1. Pisa to Riomaggiore

Starting at the Leaning Tower of Pisa, head out of town towards the coast and travel through beachside towns set to the dramatic mountain backdrop of the Apuane Alps.

See the ports at Viareggio and La Spezia before arriving in the famous hills of Liguria and capturing the breath taking sea views from the Cinque Terre.

Complete this stage in the picture perfect town of Riomaggiore, explore the romantic narrow streets and pastel painted building facades set around the harbour. the perfect spot to relax with a cold drink and order some of the fantastic local food.

Stage 2. Riomaggiore to Bogliasco

Leaving Riomaggiore, climb into the Ligurian hills shaded by pine trees above terraced vineyards cut into the steep terrain. Breathe in the coastal views before descending into the beachside town of Levanto to recharge your bottles and pick up refreshments.

The next two climbs head back into the hills through small villages before again winding back down to sea level in Sestri Levante. follow the coast road to Zoagli, enjoy an exhilarating descent into Rapallo and on the final climb to San Lorenzo della Costa take in the striking views across the peninsula towards Portofino.

Stage 3. Arenzano to San Lorenzo

Begin the stage by passing through the picturesque beachside towns of Varazze and Celle Ligure before navigating the port city of Savona. The undulating road cut into the cliff above the sea around Capo Noli is a thrilling highlight.

Watch for ancient hill top forts, beautiful public beaches, fragrant flower nurseries around Albenga and boats moored in the marina at Andora. Beach clubs on the approach to Alassio are a great spot to take a break and soak in the sea views. Finally, enjoy the swift winding descent into Cervo before arriving in San Lorenzo al Mare on the fringes of metropolitan Imperia.

Stage 4. San Lorenzo to Antibes

An action packed day starts on the cycle path from San Lorenzo al Mare through the cool air of a converted rail tunnel at San Remo before joining the road to the Italian French border after Bordighera and Ventimiglia.

In France the sites come thick and fast; colourful facades piled atop one another in Menton, the hills around Roquebrune Cap-Martin, yachts at Port hHercule in Monaco, cliffside tunnels around Beaulieu Sur Mer, the Promenade des anglais in Nice and the charming narrow streets of Antibes. There’s much to see, and with many great rides into the hills and mountains, take the time to explore.

Stage 5. Antibes to Saint Tropez

Leaving Antibes and soon arriving in Cannes, see the super yachts on the french riviera and the super cars on Le Croisette. As the buzz of the city falls behind, the coast road circumnavigates the Esterel Massif mountain range, a protected national park. Brown and red volcanic rock defines the rugged terrain of deep ravines and oak forests inland.

Keep an eye out for the famous Palais Bulles near Miramar and visit all the saints; the towns of Saint Raphael and Sainte Maxime are great spots to pause and refresh before finally arriving at the peninsula of Saint Tropez.