Travel journal: loop in the Balkans

Motorcycle Balkans tour : between the Adriatic, wild mountains and the legacy of empires

There are still regions in Europe where you feel as though you’re travelling far afield. Places where the landscape is constantly changing, where the borders tell a complex story, and where every day on the road holds its own share of surprises. The Balkans are one such rare destination.

From Italy to Croatia, by Slovenia

Our adventure begins in Trieste, Italy’s last major port before the Balkans. Very quickly, the first few kilometres take us towards Slovenia and the Istrian coast. In Piran, the Venetian-style narrow streets lead down to the Adriatic, whilst the lively terraces offer a taste of what’s to come. A few kilometres further on, the atmosphere has already changed. The hills of inland Istria reveal the hilltop villages of Grožnjan and Motovun. Amidst medieval ramparts, vineyards and forests renowned for their truffles, time seems to have stopped.

The road then leads to the sea and the beautiful town of Rovinj. Its colourful facades, harbour and Mediterranean atmosphere give a taste of what lies ahead further south. For the Croatian Adriatic coast is surely one of the most beautiful coastal routes in Europe.

From Senj to Zadar, the road follows a succession of coves, islands and cliffs overlooking the turquoise waters of the Adriatic. Mountains to the left, the sea to the right. The bends come one after another in a setting that seems to have been designed for motorcyclists.

Dalmatia then reveals its treasures. Skradin, Trogir, Omiš and then Dubrovnik appear like a series of living postcards. Venetian, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian influences intertwine in the cobbled streets, historic harbours and ancient fortifications. In Dubrovnik, the city walls overlook the sea in a unique light that leaves a lasting impression on visitors.

Montenegro

Montenegro then proved to be one of the trip’s biggest surprises. The Bay of Kotor emerges between the sea and the mountains in an almost surreal setting. Perast, with its Venetian palaces, seems to float above the water, whilst Kotor reveals its incredible walled city, dominated by steep mountains.

A few hours later, the Adriatic is already fading from view in the rear-view mirrors. The road climbs towards Lovćen National Park before heading inland. The landscapes become wilder, more rugged and more mountainous. Durmitor and the Piva Canyon offer some of the most beautiful scenery on the entire Balkan Peninsula. The roads wind between cliffs, high plateaus and isolated valleys where you sometimes come across more sheep than cars.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Entering Bosnia and Herzegovina marks the start of a new chapter in the journey. Here, history is everywhere. In Tjentište, the huge concrete monument rises up amidst the mountains like a relic from another world. Further south, Blagaj and Počitelj serve as a reminder of the Ottoman heritage that has left a deep mark on the region.

Next comes Mostar

It’s impossible to remain indifferent to the famous Stari Most, which spans the emerald waters of the Neretva. The lively terraces, minarets and stone houses create a unique atmosphere, at the crossroads of the East and Europe. A local English-speaking guide introduces us to the city with a stroll through the old town: the little stone bridge, the famous Mostar Bridge, and the best view of it from the terrace of a mosque…

As you follow the Neretva Valley, the landscape shifts between rugged gorges, peaceful villages and lush, green mountains.

The Kravica Waterfalls, the historic town of Jajce and the rugged peaks of the Dinaric Alps then mark the journey northwards. Each day reveals a new facet of the Balkans – by turns Mediterranean, mountainous and oriental – always offering a change of scenery.

The former underground airbase at Željava marks another highlight of the journey. This vast abandoned military complex, buried deep within the mountain, serves as a stark reminder of how much the region’s recent history is still evident in the landscape.

Back to Croatia

Then nature reclaims its place. The lakes and waterfalls of Plitvice National Park offer a striking contrast to the historic sites visited in the previous days. The turquoise waters wind their way through the forests in one of Croatia’s most beautiful natural settings.

Slovenia

Slovenia finally welcomes us for the final days of our trip. Ljubljana immediately charms us with its elegance and relaxed way of life. The banks of the Ljubljanica, the colourful facades and the lively terraces offer a particularly pleasant break from the mountains after several days in the hills.

Lake Bled provides the perfect finale to this adventure. Its island, church and the peaks of the Julian Alps combine to form one of Central Europe’s most famous landscapes. The final few kilometres through the Slovenian Alps offer one last chance to enjoy the pleasure of the open road before heading back to Italy.

This motorcyle Balkan tour is much more than just a motorbike trip. It is an immersion in a region of many faces, where cultures, religions, landscapes and histories intertwine. A land of contrasts where, in the space of a few hours, you can go from the shores of the Adriatic to the wildest mountains in South-Eastern Europe.

And it is precisely this diversity that makes the Balkans so captivating. Every bend in the road tells a different story.

A trip to be enjoyed as a group, either as a guided tour or a self-guided tour.

A Look Back at the 2026 Lyon Motorcycle Show

Lyon Motorcycle Show 2026

Three intense days at the heart of the motorcycle scene

The Lyon Motorcycle Show remains a major event for all enthusiasts. For several days, Eurexpo transforms into a veritable playground for fans of two- and three-wheeled vehicles: new models from manufacturers, gear, customizers, travelers, clubs… The atmosphere is both electric and friendly.

Once again this year, the event drew a huge crowd. Crowded aisles, passionate discussions about the bikes, and travel plans taking shape in the corner of a booth. Lyon reaffirms its status as a major motorcycle event in France.

10th year at Espace Voyage

For us, this year’s event had a special significance: it marked our 7th appearance at Espace Voyage.

Seven years of meeting motorcyclists who come looking for more than just a route: an experience, a reliable organization, and a team that knows the roads and the realities on the ground.

Our booth, completely redesigned, highlighted our top destinations and our new offerings for 2026:

Puglia, between the Adriatic Sea, the trulli of Alberobello, and the roads of the Gargano.

The Balkan Loop, a grand itinerary through several countries, alternating between mountains, coastline, and contrasting cultures.

The launch of our two “Freedom” tours in Morocco, for those who wish to ride at their own pace, with our logistics support in the background.

There were many substantive discussions: 2026 projects, groups of friends, couples, and international travelers interested in our rental and buy-back solutions. The show remains a special opportunity to put faces to names and lay the groundwork for future trips.

What’s New in Motorcycles for 2026

As is the case every year, the show is also an opportunity to check out the latest models.

The latest generation of trail bikes, more technologically advanced touring bikes, updates to the adventure lineups… Manufacturers are clearly focusing on long-distance comfort, onboard electronics, and versatility—features that are of direct interest to long-distance travelers.

Several models particularly caught visitors’ attention, especially in the category of large-displacement bikes designed for touring. Discussions about range, engine torque, protection, and cargo capacity were everywhere.

There was also an area dedicated to the Dakar Rally, featuring an insane number of vehicles, all stuck in the sand!

Artisans, customizers, and custom culture

The Salon du 2 Roues isn’t just about the industry. It’s also a place where you can see the work of passionate artisans.

Motorcycle customizers, designers, upholsterers, custom paint specialists… Some of the bikes on display were practically works of art. The level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and creativity are a testament to the vitality of the custom scene.

In addition, there was a section dedicated to American cars and vintage themes. Gleaming V8s, chrome-plated bodywork, and a retro atmosphere: another facet of automotive culture, but with the same passion at its core.

Thank you for visiting

This trade show is always a highlight of our season. It marks the official kickoff of the coming year.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth: loyal customers, future travelers, partners, and curious visitors. The projects we discussed in Lyon will soon be hitting the road, whether in Europe or Morocco.

If you weren’t able to attend, this selection of photos will give you a glimpse of the atmosphere. And if a destination caught your eye, there’s still time to plan your next trip.

See you soon on the road.

Motorcycle tours in the Alps: myths and tips

Alp motorcycle trip : myths and tips

Traveling by motorcycle in the Alps: what nobody tells you before you go

Every year, I see riders arriving in the Alps from all over the world. You can recognize them immediately. The smile, the excitement, the camera mounted on the helmet, and the same sentence that often comes up on the very first evening over a beer: “It’s even more beautiful than I imagined.” And almost always, another sentence quickly follows: “But it’s much harder than I expected.”

Motorcycle Tours in the Alps: When to Travel?

The Alps are not complicated in a negative sense. They are not inherently dangerous. They are simply demanding. Physically, mentally, and technically. Here, you do not ride on autopilot. You link together tight corners, climb, descend, brake, accelerate, constantly working the clutch and engine braking. Even very experienced riders quickly realize that a day in the Alps is more tiring than a long desert crossing or a wide American highway.

The first real surprise for many riders is the riding season. Many imagine that Europe can be toured year-round. In reality, the mountains decide. Between November and May, a large number of mountain passes are closed. Some reopen early, others much later. And even in June, after a long winter, a few iconic routes can still be buried under snow.

In summer, everything is open, but July and August are also the busiest months. There are people everywhere, many cyclists, many motorhomes, many tourists. Personally, I strongly prefer June or September. The roads are beautiful, traffic flows more easily, and you still have the feeling of having the mountains almost to yourself.

The weather, on the other hand, shows no mercy. In the Alps, you can experience four seasons in a single day. In the morning, you ride in a T-shirt down in the valley. An hour later, you are layering up under your jacket at the top of a pass, with fog rolling in and the temperature dropping fast. Thunderstorms build quickly, especially in summer, and the wind can become serious along certain ridgelines. That is often when travelers realize that gear matters just as much as the motorcycle. A proper waterproof jacket, warm gloves even in the middle of August, a neck warmer, base layers—this is not unnecessary comfort, it is what allows you to keep riding with a smile instead of enduring the day.

Planning Your Budget

When it comes to budget, you need to be realistic. Traveling in the Alps costs more than in many other parts of the world. Fuel is more expensive, mountain hotels are rarely cheap during the season, and restaurants in tourist areas know very well that travelers do not always have many alternatives. It is not a low-cost trip, especially if you are looking for a reasonable level of comfort. But that is also part of the experience and the pleasure of creating your motorcycle journey in the Alps. You do not come only to ride. You come to eat well, sleep well, enjoy the villages, the lakes, the sunny terraces after a long day of switchbacks.

Must-See Sites

The major mountain passes are the real addiction. Once you have experienced the Col du Galibier, the Col de l’Iseran, the Col de la Bonette, or the Stelvio Pass, you understand why riders speak of these roads as almost sacred places. These are not just roads; they are climbs, panoramas, sensations. Each pass has its own character. Some are wide and flowing, others narrow and technical. Some impress with their altitude, others with their endless series of hairpins. But all of them leave a powerful memory. They are roads you do not forget.

There are also entire routes that have become legendary. The Route des Grandes Alpes in France, the Dolomites in Italy, certain Swiss loops that link three or four passes in a single day, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria. These are roads designed for pure enjoyment, not performance. Here, you are not trying to set speed records. You are there to savor every corner, every viewpoint, every coffee stop at the top.

How to Ride in the Alps?

First of all, the choice of motorcycle has a major impact on the quality of the trip. Many riders arrive with very powerful machines, thinking that it will make the experience easier. In reality, in the Alps, it is not power that matters, it is balance. A bike that is too heavy becomes exhausting in tight hairpins. A very aggressive riding position strains your back after two days. Limited fuel range forces you to watch the gauge more than the scenery. Adventure bikes, comfortable touring motorcycles, and versatile models are often the most enjoyable. They are the ones that allow you to ride long distances without constantly thinking about the machine.

Safety in the mountains is a real issue. The roads are sometimes narrow, sometimes without guardrails, with steep drop-offs not far away. There are animals, cyclists climbing at six miles per hour, cars cutting corners without much visibility. And above all, there is fatigue. Real fatigue. The kind that shows up without warning after several intense days. The best protection is not only your gear, it is also humility. Knowing when to stop, shorten a stage, accept that you cannot do everything.

Mountain riding also requires adaptation. You quickly learn to look far ahead, to anticipate, not to enter corners too fast, to use engine braking on the descents. You learn to be smooth, precise, fluid. It is not aggressive riding, it is intelligent riding. The more relaxed you are, the more you enjoy it.

Then there is this uniquely European feature that changes everything: within just a few hours of riding, you can cross into another country. You move from France to Italy, then to Austria, you pass through Switzerland, and end up in Germany or Slovenia. Each border brings a new language, new food, a different way of experiencing the road. It is this blend that makes Alpine trips so rich and so unique.

How to travel?

And finally, there is the question of how to travel. Setting off alone, in complete freedom, or riding with support. Traveling solo is exhilarating, but it requires a great deal of energy. You have to manage navigation, weather, unexpected situations, accommodations. Traveling with support allows you to focus solely on the pleasure of riding. The routes have already been tested, the hotels are rider-friendly, the pace is balanced, and assistance is available if something goes wrong.

Traveling in the Alps by Motorcycle with Ride in Tours

That is exactly why we have built our tours at Ride in Tours. So riders can experience the Alps without worrying about logistics. Guided tours for those who want to relax and follow the lead, or self-guided options for those who prefer to keep their independence while benefiting from optimized routes. For those coming from overseas, we also offer motorcycle rentals perfectly suited to European roads, ready to ride, fully equipped and insured. And for long-term travelers, our buy-back service allows you to ride in Europe for several months without constraints.

Our Alpine Tours, Available as Guided or Self-Guided Options:

• The Great Alps Road and Provence
• The Great Alps Loop
• Dolomites and Northern Italy
• The Balkans tour

The Alps are not a destination like any other. They are not a frozen postcard. They are a living playground, sometimes demanding, often magical. When properly prepared, it is probably one of the most beautiful journeys a rider can take in a lifetime. And that is exactly what we aim to share: a true road experience, not just a route on a map.

Checklist for Riding the Alps by Motorcycle:

Key Things to Keep in Mind:

• Take your time riding and accept that the Alps cannot be covered at the same pace as other parts of the world.
• Choose the right season, with open passes and reasonable traffic, to truly enjoy the roads and scenery.
• Plan for versatile gear capable of handling sun, cold, rain, and temperature changes, even in the middle of summer.
• Adjust your route according to the weather and be willing to modify your plan rather than push through at all costs.
• Select a comfortable, manageable, and well-equipped motorcycle, better suited for several days of switchbacks and elevation changes.
• Ride smoothly, anticipate, look far ahead, and maintain a safety margin at all times.
• Schedule regular breaks and accept slowing down to manage fatigue.
• Consider a guided tour or a turnkey option to focus entirely on the pleasure of riding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Underestimating the difficulty of Alpine roads and the physical and mental fatigue they create.
• Trying to cover too many miles, too many passes, or too many countries in too little time.
• Arriving with a poorly suited motorcycle, too heavy or too extreme for several days of mountain riding.
• Neglecting proper gear, assuming that summer guarantees consistently good conditions.
• Ignoring local traffic laws, enforcement, and the specific regulations of each country.
• Riding with the same habits and pace as in your home country.
• Pushing on when the weather deteriorates instead of adapting or shortening a stage.

MOTORCYCLE TRIP IN THE VOSGES AND THE BLACK FOREST

MOTORCYCLE TRIP IN THE VOSGES AND THE BLACK FOREST

Between the rounded ridgelines of the Vosges and the deep roads of the Black Forest, this motorcycle trip is built on contrast. On one side, open summits with wide panoramas and sweeping passes that flow naturally from one to the next. On the other, a denser Germany, dark forests, perfectly engineered roads, and half-timbered villages that sometimes feel frozen in time.

Roads for fun

Here, you ride for pure enjoyment. The sequences are precise, the pavement offers solid grip, and the elevation changes remain accessible while still keeping a good rhythm. Every stop becomes a viewpoint, every valley crossing a transition into a new atmosphere. It is ideal terrain for riders who enjoy engaging roads without stepping into extreme Alpine conditions.

This gallery reflects the spirit of our trip: a group of riders, not all of whom knew each other before departure, beautiful light along the Vosges ridges, flowing forest curves on the German side, relaxed stops, and that constant sense of freedom. Two regions, two distinct characters, one common thread: the pleasure of riding.

Visit to Mont Saint-Odile, Obernai, Alsace, France.

A Surprising Tour of the Völklinger Steelworks: A Site of Industrial Heritage and a Contemporary Art Center. Saarland, Germany.

The Eagle of Triberg in the Black Forest, the watchmaking capital known for its cuckoo clocks. It is also home to Germany’s highest waterfall. Baden-Württemberg, Germany.

Triberg in the Black Forest is also a renowned health resort.

First coffee break of the trip at a motorcycle collector’s place. Thann, European Community of Alsace, France.

Lunch break in downtown Schirmeck, Bas-Rhin, France.

From the Vosges Mountains toward the Alsace Plain and the Black Forest. Mont Saint-Odile, Alsace, France.

Group photo in front of the beautiful Saar River bend, Orscholz, Saarland, Germany.

the Völklinger Steelworks, Saarland, Germany.

Sankt Martin, a small town nestled among vineyards along the Wine Route, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

At the base of Haut-Barr Castle, Saverne, Alsace, France.

the Völklinger Steelworks, Saarland, Germany.

Along the Rhine, a lunch break in Bacarach, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

Along the Moselle River, a visit to Cochem, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

Bacarach, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

To join our next guided group, it’s here 👉 : Black Forest and Vosges guided tour.

OSMAND: a simple app for stress-free motorcycle travel

When preparing a motorcycle trip—especially for the first time—navigation can quickly become a source of stress.
Which route should you take? Which roads are worth riding? How can you avoid major highways without getting lost?

That is exactly why we use and recommend OSMAND, a navigation app particularly well suited to motorcycle travel.

What is OSMAND?

OSMAND is a navigation application based on OpenStreetMap data, used worldwide.
It runs on smartphones (Android and iOS) and allows you to follow precise routes, even without an internet connection.

Once the maps are downloaded, your phone becomes a true travel GPS.
At Ride in Tours, we use OSMAND to provide you with reliable, tested routes designed for pure riding pleasure.

Why is OSMAND ideal for motorcycle travel?

For riders who are not used to long-distance trips, OSMAND offers several key advantages:

• Offline navigation
  No mobile signal required—perfect for mountains, remote areas, or traveling abroad.
• Accurate and detailed routes
  The app follows the planned route exactly, turn by turn, without unnecessary recalculations.
• Clear and easy-to-read display
  The screen clearly shows the road, remaining distance, and upcoming direction changes.
• Freedom and peace of mind
  You ride at your own pace, stress-free, knowing you are always on the right route.

It is an excellent balance between a dedicated GPS unit and overly basic navigation apps.

OSMAND and Ride in Tours journeys

For our self-guided tours, and for some guided trips, we provide ready-to-use GPS tracks, specifically designed for OSMAND.

These routes:

• favor scenic roads,
• avoid monotonous main highways,
• take local constraints into account (mountain passes, traffic, landscapes),
• are adapted to the riders’ experience level.

Even with little navigation experience, all you have to do is follow the route and enjoy the ride.

Equipment tips: keep it simple

OSMAND runs on a smartphone, but a few basic accessories greatly improve comfort:

• Secure motorcycle phone mount
  Essential to keep the screen visible without taking your eyes off the road.
• Power supply or external battery
  Navigation uses battery power, especially during full riding days.
• Readable screen
  A phone with a bright screen remains readable even in direct sunlight.
  A tablet can also be an option, provided it is waterproof and shock-resistant (several affordable models are available).

No need for complex or expensive equipment—the goal is to stay simple and efficient.

Travel with confidence

OSMAND is not just for experienced riders.
On the contrary, it is perfectly suited for those discovering motorcycle travel and looking for peace of mind.

At Ride in Tours, we believe a great route is the key to a successful journey.
OSMAND is one of the tools that allows us to offer you that freedom—one road at a time.

Where to download OSMAND, how much does it cost, and how many free maps are included?

Before hitting the road, you need the app and the maps. Here is everything you need to know, simply explained.

Where can you download OSMAND?

OSMAND is available on all major platforms, as well as on the official website:

• Android: Google Play Store
• iPhone / iPad (iOS): App Store
• Official website: https://osmand.net/

Just search for “OSMAND” and install it like any other app.

How much does it cost?

OSMAND offers several versions:

• OSMAND Start (free)
  Free download with access to a limited number of offline maps.
  Perfect for discovering and testing the app.
• Two paid versions
  Unlock all advanced features, download more maps (ideal for multi-country trips), and access additional options such as voice navigation and advanced alerts.

As a guideline, subscriptions cost around €30–40 per year (or a few euros per month), which is far cheaper than a dedicated motorcycle GPS—and much more flexible.

Tip: discounts are frequent, often offering subscriptions at half price.

How many maps are available for free?

With the free version, you can download a limited number of regions or countries (usually between 2 and 7, depending on map size).
This allows you, for example, to load an entire country like France or Italy, or several smaller regions.

If you plan a multi-country trip (Alps, Balkans, Morocco, Spain, etc.), the Premium version or additional map purchases will let you carry all the necessary maps offline, without relying on mobile data.

SELL AND BUY BACK PROGRAM : MOTORCYCLES AVAILABLE

Motorcycle Sell and Buy Back in Europe: the easiest way to travel freely

The motorcycle sell and buy back service in Europe offered by Ride in Tours is designed for international riders who want to travel across France and Europe with their own motorcycle, without dealing with importation, resale, or complex logistics.
With our program, you purchase a motorcycle directly from our fleet, ride freely for several weeks or months, and then we buy the motorcycle back at a pre-agreed price.

This buy back motorcycle solution is ideal for long-term travelers from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Latin America who want to explore Europe without paying daily rental fees or being stuck with a vehicle to resell on their own.

Ride in Tours carefully selects and prepares every motorcycle available for sale: reliable touring motorcycles, fully serviced, registered in Europe, and ready to ride immediately. You benefit from a turnkey solution to buy a motorcycle in Europe, travel independently, and leave Europe without worrying about resale.

By choosing our motorcycle buy back service, you combine:

total freedom of itinerary,

full budget control,

administrative simplicity,

and the security of a guaranteed buy back.

It is one of the most cost-effective and flexible ways to experience motorcycle travel in Europe for medium or long-term trips.

Motorcycles currently available in our fleet:

These motorcycles have been used by our clients and guides during our tours.

They are fully serviced, ready to ride, and all come equipped with a top case and side panniers.

BMW 1250 GS n°2 / 2022 / 66.928 km / 13500 € Motorcycle details

BMW 750 GS n°1 / 2019 / 75.958 km / 5000 € Motorcycle details

BMW 750 GS n°2 / 2019 / 70678 km / 5500 € Motorcycle details

BMW 1200 GS n°1 / 2019 / 66.368 km / 10000€ Motorcycle details

Moto Guzzi V85TT / 2019 / 55.250 km 6000 € Motorcycle details

ROAD TRIP IN LUBERON AND ON THE MONT VENTOUX

As part of our series featuring the most beautiful motorcycle trips in France, we invite you this time on a ride to the White Giant of Provence: Mont Ventoux.

The Rhône River, flowing south toward Provence, curves westward, skirting the Roman city of Orange.
To the east of Orange rise the hills of the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Ventoux massif.
On the slopes of these hills and all around them stretch renowned vineyards, while to the north, Nyons is known as the heart of olive oil production.

The most beautiful villages to ride through by motorcycle at the foot of Mont Ventoux.

Carpentras

Located on the edge of the pastures south of the Dentelles de Montmirail and Mont Ventoux, Carpentras is both a market town for local market gardeners and a center of light industry.
One of its main landmarks is Saint-Siffrein Cathedral, a 15th-century Gothic building, approached through the Jewish Gate (in flamboyant Gothic style). The gate takes its name from the Jewish converts who once passed through it to receive baptism.

To the west of the cathedral, on Boulevard Albin-Durand, stands a museum housing the Inguimbertine Library, an important collection assembled by an 18th-century bishop, featuring several rare and remarkable volumes.

Carpentras once had a thriving Jewish community, which included—until the French Revolution—a ghetto of around 1,200 people.
Its 15th-century synagogue, the oldest in France, can still be visited. Inside, you will find the sanctuary on the upper floor, the bakery used for making unleavened bread on the ground floor, and ritual purification pools in the basement.

Mazan

In this village, the most striking feature is a series of Roman sarcophagi forming part of the cemetery wall.
Within the same cemetery stands the semi-underground Chapel of Notre-Dame de Pareloup. Built in the 7th century, the chapel was intended to protect the dead from demons believed to devour them—demons said to take the form of wolves.

Nyons, the capital of Drôme Provençale at the gateway to the Baronnies

The town of Nyons is located in the Drôme rather than in Provence, yet its climate and appearance are unmistakably Provençal, offering a perfect introduction to the South of France. It is popular with retirees year-round.
In winter, the surrounding hills dotted with shrubs protect the town from the mistral wind; in summer, a refreshing breeze known as the pontias blows through the Eygues Valley, easing the heat. The river’s name is sometimes spelled Aigues, but both forms simply mean “water.”

To the north of the town, arcaded streets lead to the Forts district, built in the Middle Ages. The Randonne Tower, dating from the 8th century, houses a tiny chapel. Rue des Grands-Forts, a beautiful covered gallery, leads to an old gate—one of the last remains of the former fortress. The bridge over the river, with its single arch spanning 40 meters, dates back to the 14th century.

A visit to the Nyons olive oil mill, open to the public, is well worth it. Here you can discover the local specialty: black olives preserved in brine.

Vaison-la-Romaine

Although Vaison-la-Romaine is best known for its Roman remains, the medieval town and its 13th-century cathedral are just as picturesque—even if access by motorcycle can be somewhat challenging.

The final part of the town’s name is revealing of its past and points to the Roman remains we will explore in a future article dedicated to a motorcycle route in Provence. But Vaison-la-Romaine has much more to offer than its ancient ruins.

Notre-Dame de Nazareth is a superb 13th-century cathedral in the Provençal Romanesque style—simple yet remarkably elegant. Inside stands the sarcophagus of Saint Quenin, bishop of Vaison-la-Romaine in the 6th century, placed in front of the episcopal throne within an apse of truly exceptional beauty.

On the opposite bank of the Ouvèze River, a steep road climbs to the upper town, dominated by the ruined castle of the Counts of Toulouse. In this picturesque part of the city, a fountain sits at the center of Place du Vieux-Marché, from which narrow streets radiate outward. The tall houses are often adorned with wrought-iron grilles, adding to the town’s distinctive character.

Must-see sites for your motorcycle ride in the Luberon

The Dentelles de Montmirail

The limestone hills of the Dentelles de Montmirail attract motorcycle travelers as much as hikers, climbing enthusiasts, artists, and nature lovers.

Geologically speaking, the Dentelles de Montmirail are the final foothills of Mont Ventoux. If movements in the Earth’s crust had not lifted the limestone into a jagged ridge line resembling lace—giving the range its name—the landscape would consist of gentle hills covered in vineyards and crowned with pine and oak forests.

The peaks are highly regarded by climbers and are considered an excellent natural climbing school. The best access is from Suzette to the east or from Gigondas to the west. Lower down lie charming wine-producing villages. Séguret, nestled against a steep hillside, offers magnificent views along with many other attractions: sloping streets lined with old houses, a 7th-century church, a 15th-century fountain, and the ruins of a castle.

From Séguret, a road winds around Montmirail to reach Gigondas, whose Grenache-based red wine is considered among the finest in the region, often ranked just below Châteauneuf-du-Pape in quality. From the village, a road climbs to the Col du Cayron, in the heart of the Dentelles.

Mont Ventoux is the westernmost ridge of the Alps. Its highest point, at 1,909 meters, is bare and exposed, shaped by the wind that seems to blow there almost constantly. In Provençal, the mountain is called Ventour, meaning “windy mountain.”

Its slopes are covered with forests of pine, oak, and beech, which gradually give way to broom and, higher up, to a scattering of alpine flowers.

At the summit of Mont Ventoux, you will find a weather station, a television transmitter, and a radar installation. From here, a 360-degree panorama opens up, along with an orientation table that helps identify landmarks such as the Luberon, the Alpilles, and Montagne Sainte-Victoire.

In summer, it is possible to walk along the bare ridgeline, following in the footsteps of the Italian poet Petrarch, whose ascent of the summit in 1336 marked its first recorded conquest.
Thanks to its distinctive shape, Mont Ventoux has long attracted cycling competitions and motorcyclists from around the world. Until 1973, it served as a training ground for mountain routes and continues to feature regularly in the itinerary of the Tour de France.

It was on these slopes that the British rider Tom Simpson suffered the only fatal accident in the history of the Tour de France.
You can ride across Mont Ventoux by motorcycle from Malaucène, heading east along the D974.

The return journey on the southern side of the mountain offers the opportunity to visit Caromb, home to a fascinating museum of traditional agricultural tools, and Le Barroux, where a restored Renaissance castle stands overlooking the village.

It is common to spot photographers positioned at strategic corners, capturing cyclists and motorcyclists for posterity. Take note of the website name displayed, and as early as the same evening, you’ll be able to find photos of your motorcycle exploits on Mont Ventoux.

Where to stay during your motorcycle trip in the Luberon and on Mont Ventoux?

Domaine Les Cabasses in Séguret (3-star hotel)

This hotel, set within a wine estate, offers an ideal base for exploring the Mont Ventoux area while enjoying a beautiful setting and excellent cuisine. It is also a great opportunity to discover and taste the estate’s own wine production.

Liotard Chalet on Mont Ventoux

Located at 1,432 meters, this hotel-gîte offers breathtaking mountain views in a warm, family-style atmosphere. Very quiet in the evenings, once the day visitors have left.

Where can you find motorcycle roadbooks for your Luberon getaway?

Visit the website of our partner Mototrip, where you will find numerous motorcycle routes throughout the Ventoux and Luberon regions.

Planning your motorcycle road trip in Vaucluse and the Luberon

To complement this article with plenty of activities and places to discover, visit the official Luberon destination website. A wealth of ideas to help you plan your next motorcycle weekend in Provence and the Luberon.

Discover Mont Ventoux on a guided group tour

We accompany riders in this region on our Route des Alpes and Provence tour, available as a guided group trip or in a self-guided format.

MOTO GUZZI V85TT – 6000€

Motorcycle available through our buy-back program or for direct purchase

Year of first registration: 2019
Mileage: 55250 km

Specifications:

• Engine: 853 cc transverse V-twin – 76 hp / 82 Nm
  Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with shaft drive
  Weight: approx. 229 kg fully fueled
  Fuel tank: 23 L
• Wheels: 19” front / 17” rear
• Technology: ABS, traction control, riding modes, cruise control, TFT display, full LED lighting
• Comfort: seat height approx. 830 mm, windscreen, long-travel suspension suited to a wide range of road conditions

Photos:

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BMW R 1200 GS n°2 – 6500€

Motorcycle available through our buy-back program or for direct purchase

Year of first registration: 2009
Mileage: 87000 km

Specifications:

• Engine: 1,170 cc boxer twin – 125 hp / 125 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with shaft drive
• Weight: approx. 238 kg fully fueled
• Fuel tank: 20 L
• Wheels: 19” front / 17” rear
• Technology: ABS, traction control, riding modes (depending on version), ESA electronic suspension (depending on equipment), multifunction display, halogen or LED lighting depending on model year
• Comfort: adjustable seat height (approx. 850–870 mm), GS ergonomics, effective wind protection

Photos:

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BMW R 1200 GS n°1 – 10000€

Motorcycle available through our buy-back program or for direct purchase

Motorcycle sold with top box and panniers

Year of first registration: 2019
Mileage: 66.368 km

Specifications:

• Engine: 1,170 cc boxer twin – 125 hp / 125 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed gearbox with shaft drive
• Weight: approx. 238 kg fully fueled
• Fuel tank: 20 L
• Wheels: 19” front / 17” rear
• Technology: ABS, traction control, riding modes (depending on version), ESA electronic suspension (depending on equipment), multifunction display, halogen or LED lighting depending on model year
• Comfort: adjustable seat height (approx. 850–870 mm), GS ergonomics, effective wind protection

Photos:

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