Gravel Riding in the Estérel: A Rugged Playground Between the Mediterranean, Pines and Red Rock

What if your next gravel adventure was just a short flight away? Nestled between Saint-Raphaël and Cannes, the Estérel Massif offers an intense blend of technical riding, raw beauty and full sensory immersion. At Baroudeur Cycling, we’ve designed a bold, demanding gravel experience—tested and loved by our guides and riders—for those who want more than just a scenic ride.

A Raw, Technical and Rewarding Gravel Terrain

Ride Where the Earth Turns Red

The Estérel is a volcanic landscape shaped for cycling. It’s not just a ride—it’s a test of flow, control and precision:

• Red DFCI fire roads, fast yet technical
• Twisting singletracks through pine and scrubland
• Fast descents on loose volcanic gravel
• Punchy climbs, up to 1,000m of elevation gain in 60 km

This is gravel for skilled riders looking to push boundaries, hone technique and savour every corner.

A Multi-Sensory Journey

What sets the Estérel apart is the density of sensations:

• The scent of pine, eucalyptus and sun-baked garrigue
• Intense colour contrasts: deep green forest, red stone, blue sea
• Jaw-dropping vistas from Pic de l’Ours or Col du Testanier

Baroudeur’s Gravel Camp: Demanding, Designed, Unforgettable

We’re launching an exclusive gravel pilot in June 2025, limited to 10 riders.

Trip Format

• Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
• Daily distance: 60–80 km
• Supervision: led by an experienced Baroudeur guide (ex-pro rider)
• Level: for cyclists riding 2–3 times per week

What’s Included

• Curated GPS routes + daily tactical brief
• Mechanical & logistical support
• Handpicked accommodation in local charm hotels
• On-the-go gourmet snacks & outdoor lunches

Recommended Gear (To Ride It Like It Deserves)

• Tubeless tyres, 40 mm minimum
• 1x11 or 1x12 drivetrain (ideal: 40x11–42)
• Hydraulic disc brakes
• Frame bag or lightweight backpack
• GPS computer with long battery life

Need a bike? Our high-performance gravel bikes are available to rent—fully tuned, terrain-tested and ready to roll.

Why Ride the Estérel with Baroudeur?

• A pro-level experience, without the stress
• A locally rooted approach, with low impact and high authenticity
• Routes tested and refined by our guides
• A real sense of community, challenge and shared reward
• All the thrill, with none of the guesswork

Access Made Easy

• Nice Airport: 45 minutes away
• TGV station: Saint-Raphaël-Valescure
• Pickup available on request

Riders Talk

“The terrain is perfect to build skills without losing the fun. Estérel is unique—and Baroudeur nailed every detail.”
— Julien, 2024 participant

“Demanding but gorgeous. We climbed, descended, laughed, and learned. It’s everything gravel should be.”
— Clara, Alpes-Maritimes

Ready to Take On the Estérel?

This is a trip for riders who want more—more connection, more challenge, more beauty. If you're craving a new gravel destination where effort meets emotion, Estérel is calling.

📍 See our Gravel Adventures
📍 Discover our Tailor-Made Trips

📩 Contact us now to secure your spot for June 2025 or request a custom version.

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