3 days of GRAVEL in Haute-Provence

Day 1: 80 km – 1689m D+ / 1584m D- Day 2: 79 km – 1314m elevation gain / 1414m elevation loss Day 3: 58 km – 1050m d+ / 1055 m D- This journey begins with the discovery of the impressive Route du Temps (Time Route) towards Authon, a village perched in the heart of the Monges mountain range. After crossing the Col de Fontbelle (1304 m), you'll enjoy superb, sun-drenched forest tracks, in the heart of an iconic site within the Haute-Provence Geopark. The route on the first day then becomes more relaxed, alternating between climbs and descents along scenic trails before descending into the Duyes Valley via a peaceful road. After a pleasant stop in the village of Thoard, a final climb will take you to the Bléone Valley and Digne-les-Bains. Terrain characteristics on the day 1: 4% main roads, 72% small secondary roads, 22% wide paths and 2% trails. The second day alternates between breathtaking panoramas over the Durance Valley and the cool shade of the undergrowth. After a quick climb to the charming village of Mirabeau, you'll cross the Col des Pénitents (Penitents' Pass) and descend into the Durance Valley. The route then follows a track down to the famous Rochers des Pénitents des Mées (Penitents of Les Mées Rocks), a must-see geological landmark. After a visit to the village lake, a true sanctuary for birds and the perfect spot for a break, your exploration will conclude with a fun walk through the legendary forest of the Prieuré de Ganagobie (Ganagobie Priory) to Château-Arnoux. Terrain characteristics on day 2: 6% main roads, 39% small secondary roads, 52% wide paths and 3% trails. The final day begins without major difficulty as far as Sisteron, where you'll be treated to exceptional panoramic views of the fortified citadel and the iconic Rocher de la Baume. Once past the town, escape onto a quiet road to discover the area's hidden treasures, nestled between verdant meadows and small streams. Be sure to admire the remarkable Pont de la Reine Jeanne, a true gem of stonework, before following a series of tracks towards the village of Sourribes. The route then follows the Vanson River to reach the village of Volonne, whose historic center you'll explore before beginning your circuit around the lake. This privileged site, nestled within the vast Haute-Provence bird sanctuary, a precious refuge for local flora and fauna, offers a natural interlude before your final return to the tourist office. Terrain characteristics on day 3: 20% main roads, 42% small secondary roads, 30% wide paths and 8% trails. Predictable : stops at restaurants or bakeries for lunch breaks. Rental of Gravel bikes equipped with 10-liter saddle bags and 3-liter tube bags: – BH Gravelx Alu 2.0 – BH Gravelx Alu 1.0 1 size S and 1 size M Rental at ENDURANCE Cycles in Château-Arnoux: 07.49.89.90.91 Reservation by telephone: 00334 92 64 02 64- Deposit required when booking (50%)- Payment of the balance on the day of departure- Refund if early cancellation- Cancellation without charge in exceptional circumstances