The Uzege (west of Avignon) 8/10
The Uzege is the area just 30 minutes west of Avignon. Think of it as a large circle with enchanting market town of Uzès at its center.
Life around Uzes is a little more laid back than it is in the rest of Provence (and strictly speaking Uzege is part of the Gard region and so not administratively-speaking part of "Provence" proper. But with it's warm weather, boules games, outdoor cafes, even bull rings - it feels 100% Provencal.)
There are some excellent wineries, olive oil, good restaurants and plenty of history. The nearby Pont du Gard for instance is one of the architectural jewels of Roman occupation of the area. The bridge was part of an engineering marvel that brought water from Uzes to Nimes solely by gravity feed.
Life around Uzes is a little more laid back than it is in the rest of Provence (and strictly speaking Uzege is part of the Gard region and so not administratively-speaking part of "Provence" proper. But with it's warm weather, boules games, outdoor cafes, even bull rings - it feels 100% Provencal.)
There are some excellent wineries, olive oil, good restaurants and plenty of history. The nearby Pont du Gard for instance is one of the architectural jewels of Roman occupation of the area. The bridge was part of an engineering marvel that brought water from Uzes to Nimes solely by gravity feed.
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Route Variety 8/10
The cycling here, while not as vertically challenging as the Ventoux, is still excellent. The possible routes are wonderfully varied and the roads are quieter. |
Hills: 7/10
The terrain is not hilly like the Ventoux area, but there are nice rolling undulations to keep things interesting. |
Cycling Safety 9/10
Because the Gard/Uzege is less well-known, it is also less-populated and less-visited. So, the car traffic is lighter than other areas of Provence. Fewer cars = better cycling. |
Off The Bike: 8/10
Off the bike Uzès is this areas focus for culture, shops and dining. Though the surrounding villages (such as the 10-pottery gallery village of St. Quentin la Poterie) each have their draws too. Beyond Uzès however visits to Nimes (with its Roman Coliseum) and Arles (Roman Arena) are also must visits. |
Weather/Seasons 9/10
You'll enjoy typical Provence weather (mostly warm, sunny, dry) and so a long season. Spring and Fall are terrific. Summers are very hot, as it is all through Provence. |
