Our TOP 3 destinations for riding gravel this Autumn!

Just because summer is ending doesn’t mean it’s time to put your bike away just yet… it’s time to ride in awesome autumn! Here at Gravel Up we ride some of the best kept secret spots in France, and indeed Europe, thanks to the knowledge of our local guides. And autumn is no different.

In fact autumn makes for great gravel riding - it’s the perfect time to explore new horizons on a point to point bike trip, once the schools have gone back and all the holiday-makers have gone home. Plus the colours are incredible, transforming landscapes throughout the day into a blaze of colour and best appreciated from the forest trails that are made for gravel bikes.

Cyclists of all levels can get out there and soak up the beauty of nature and peace of the season after the mayhem of the summer holidays.

Gravel bikes are ideal for autumnal riding, they love a bit of mud and some crisp leaves as much as a smooth trail and the odd bit of tarmac. Their versatility makes them the weapon of choice for getting off the beaten track in some of the many breathtaking Natural and National Parks you’ll find throughout France and Europe. The perfect way to explore somewhere new and soak up the autumnal vibes.

1. Nice, Côte d’Azur, France

La Dolce Vita

Down in the southeastern corner of France, Nice is the perfect playground for gravel riders in search of autumnal warmth thanks to its friendly climate and the warmth of the Med. With rolling hills, clifftop roads and views out to sea and up into the mountains, there’s plenty to explore for experienced cyclists and newbies alike.

Our gravel routes have been meticulously built by our local guides so that you can explore the region on the best of the local trails. You’ll find beautiful villages perched high on the hillsides, red gravel trails in the Esterel mountains and winding roads with jaw dropping views across the Med… something new to explore around every corner!

Our trips from Nice are 3 days long, and are led by a local guide, meaning you can relax and enjoy the ride rather than worrying about route planning and navigating etc. Thanks to their knowledge and experience, our guides can adapt each days route to your level.

All our gravel trips have everything included, and have been carefully put together by our team so that you can concentrate on the important jobs of riding, exploring and making the most of every moment! We’ve searched out high end and comfy accommodation with top notch restaurants and picnic spots, plus we organise your transfers etc and you’ll have a support van during each days ride. And the icing on the cake - we’ll enjoy yoga and stretching on the side to help your body pedal that bit further!

You can find out here about our upcoming trips to Nice this autumn - so what are you waiting for? Time to get booking!

2. Andalusia, Spain

Gravel, tapas and sangria

Come explore the Sierra Morena with us, the hidden jewel of Andalusia in Southern Spain, where you’ll find a raw nature and (almost!) guaranteed sunshine. A winning combination for autumn! It’s also an ideal destination for those looking to give gravel riding a go, thanks to the wide smooth gravel tracks and exceptional scenery. With untouched mountains and authentic landscapes, crisscrossed with trails as far as the eye can see, you’ll soon be enjoying the freedom of gravel riding!

Our gravel routes in the Sierra Morena will take you far from the tourist trails of the coast and deep into nature in the hills, via trails that seem to have been created precisely for a gravel bike! On each ride you’ll explore somewhere new, with green valleys dwarfed by high mountain peaks, and typical Spanish hamlets surrounded by olive groves.

Our BaseCamp is quintessentially Spanish, right in the heart of the area and surrounded by gravel trails to ride. An authentic “finca” that has been renovated with all the mod cons you’ll need whilst respecting and maintaining its origins and local charm. You’ll be plunged straight into the laid back Andalusian atmos, with delicious traditional food and an beautiful space to unwind after a days adventure.

Our formats on offer

You can choose from a3 day getaway with day rides from BaseCamp, ideal for those new/nearly new to riding or who enjoy the odd ride, or a 5 day point to point trip for those who are more experienced. Both trips can be adapted to the different levels of the group, thanks to the local knowledge and experience of our guides, ensuring you can make the most of your getaway.

Our trips in the Sierra Morena have everything included, meaning that you can relax and concentrate on enjoying yourself. Accommodation, meals, transfers, support van, and guided rides are all sorted for you, as well as some bonus local delicacy tastings and visits, for a healthy dose of Andalusian culture.

You can book one of our upcoming trips now, then you’ll just need to get ready to explore Andalusia and relax into the Sierra Morena!

3. Mont Ventoux, France

The unmissable summit of Provence

The undisputed summit of Provence, and of many an amateur cyclist’s riding career, Mont Ventoux makes for a gravel adventure not to be missed. Known for its barren summit, breathtaking views and plethora of roads, by gravel bike Mont Ventoux offers something a little different, whatever your level of riding. In autumn Ventoux is at its best - with perfect temperatures and golden landscapes that are blissfully quiet, meaning you can soak up the wild and authentic charm of the area.

Our gravel routes around Ventoux allow you to explore and discover this majestic mountain from the trails, which make for a totally different viewpoint. With hardly a soul in sight. Each day you’ll be immersed in the natural Provençal beauty of this legend of a peak and its surrounding gorges and vineyards.

The Nesk will be your BaseCamp for your stay, a cyclists institution that’s nestled at the foot of Ventoux. With numerous trails on the doorstep, it's a perfect place both to ride from and return to, with all the comforts you need and plenty of cycling history to boot. You’ll be treated to local specialities and a warm Provençal welcome.

All our gravel trips to Mont Ventoux have everything included - accommodation, food, transfers, local guides, support van… So that you can relax and enjoy everything the area has to offer.

Check out our upcoming dates and get booked into a trip that suits you, so that you can experience the exceptional beauty of Provence and climb its iconic summit!