Between the plains and the mountains on gravel
Route Information
Description
It's the ideal gravel route for climbing when the peaks are inaccessible.
Leaving Barboleuse, you descend to Le ChĂŞne via a succession of narrow roads and gravel sections. You then stay in the vineyards until you reach the start of the sentier de Provence, a single track where you may have to put your foot down a few times. At the end of this sector, you climb back up to Les Ecovets on a road interspersed with two long gravel sections that will make you forget that you have to climb over 700m of D+. On the way back to Barboleuse, you take several more gravel sections around Villars.
Practical Information
OUR ADVICE - As you pass through Gryon (km 1), admire this authentic village with its church and chalets over 300 years old. - The climb between Verschiez and Panex is part of the Challenge Strava des Alpes Vaudoises. Between 1 July and 30 September, record your time and take part in this friendly challenge. (see link for more info) - There are several bakeries on this route in Ollon, Villars and Barboleuse. Our favourite: the pastries at Charlet's in Barboleuse. Perfect timing, as this is the start and finish of the loop! SIGNPOSTING - This route is not signposted, but you can see it on the link provided.
Links
It's the ideal gravel route for climbing when the peaks are inaccessible.
Leaving Barboleuse, you descend to Le ChĂŞne via a succession of narrow roads and gravel sections. You then stay in the vineyards until you reach the start of the sentier de Provence, a single track where you may have to put your foot down a few times. At the end of this sector, you climb back up to Les Ecovets on a road interspersed with two long gravel sections that will make you forget that you have to climb over 700m of D+. On the way back to Barboleuse, you take several more gravel sections around Villars.
Practical Information
OUR ADVICE - As you pass through Gryon (km 1), admire this authentic village with its church and chalets over 300 years old. - The climb between Verschiez and Panex is part of the Challenge Strava des Alpes Vaudoises. Between 1 July and 30 September, record your time and take part in this friendly challenge. (see link for more info) - There are several bakeries on this route in Ollon, Villars and Barboleuse. Our favourite: the pastries at Charlet's in Barboleuse. Perfect timing, as this is the start and finish of the loop! SIGNPOSTING - This route is not signposted, but you can see it on the link provided.