Stop me if you’ve heard this before. Every year I spend my winter riding the rolling garrigues around Nimes and every spring I make a return to the best place on Earth to ride – Les Cévennes. In the last few weeks and months I’ve actually ridden into the foothills, but today – a little late – was my first deep dive for the year. The sign below guarantees some great miles ahead if you’re on a bike (or a donkey).
It being Sunday, I chose the National Route that cuts up the middle of the mountains towards Mende and Clermont Ferrand, if you really want a full day. I spent nearly 40 km on this big road with little traffic before turning right onto one of the limitless ‘D’ roads that cut and cross the entire park. The stretch of road below was on an 8km climb. I saw one car, three sheep, a dog and a non-plussed rabbit.
This is closing in on the end of the climb, looking back at the hamlet with the dog.
After this climb I descended a good 15km (5 cars) and ate a bar at our local castle, Chateau de Portes.
And enjoyed the view.
I’m woefully in need of some climbing, so I’ll be making a return pretty soon, I think. Here’s the ride: https://www.strava.com/activities/8983780072
The Vicious Cycle 
“…the hamlet with the dog.” 😊
Ah, one of those envy generating posts.
Your area looks pretty nice, too.
But not quite as mellow as far as the temperature goes and not quite as ‘gorge-ous’.
Having just completed my first (of hopefully many more) tours with Gerry through this region, I can attest to this being hands down the most rewarding and immersive “French” riding experience. This is truly one of the most beautiful areas I’ve ever ridden. Only been back for a couple of weeks and already working on a way to get back.
David, you are welcome back anytime. It was great having you with us in the Cévennes, even though I didn’t see you very much on the bike 😉 Enjoy the rest of your summer.