September, the perfect month for a motorcycle road trip
Summer is slowly drawing to a close. The great transhumance of tourists is winding down, leaving behind clear roads, quiet terraces and soft light that magnifies every landscape.
On a motorcycle, it's a real luxury: you don't have to anticipate traffic jams to get through a village, or search long and hard for a parking space. You ride with your nose to the wind, taking in the scents of late summer, ripe fig trees on the Côte d'Azur, forests still green but already dotted with yellow in the mountains.
In September, conditions are ideal for exploring France by motorcycle: pleasant heat, longer days, more accessible accommodation. It's the perfect opportunity for a road trip combining freedom, discovery and riding pleasure.
Whychoose September for your road trip?
Fewer people on the roads
The lines of camper vans and cars loaded with suitcases have moved on. Mythical roads, such as the Corniche d'Or on the Côte d'Azur or the twists and turns of the Alpine passes, can be enjoyed in peace and quiet.
Ideal weather for riding
The stifling heat of July and August gives way to mild temperatures, ideal for riding for several hours without suffering. In the mountains, the passes remain open but the air is cooler, perfect for keeping up a good pace.
Lower rates
Hotels, B&Bs and restaurants often offer lower prices out of season. This means you can enjoy a more comfortable stopover or extend your stay for the same budget.
A more authentic experience
The locals are back to normal after the high season. You'll enjoy warmer exchanges, less crowded markets and a calmer atmosphere that makes every stop even more enjoyable.
Our favorite itineraries for September
Southern France: the Var and Côte d'Azur from Nice
In September, fine weather is guaranteed on the Côte d'Azur. Seaside resorts such as Saint-Tropez and Cannes regain their tranquility, and the roads along the Mediterranean offer exceptional panoramic views. Between still-warm beaches, hilltop villages and winding roads, it's a pure pleasure to drive without the crowds.
👉 Click here to see the route in detail and access the GPS map
Mountains: Tour du Mont Blanc departs from Lyon
In September, the major Alpine passes like the Petit Saint-Bernard are still open, but traffic is much more fluid. It's the ideal time to discover the exceptional panoramas around Mont Blanc, cross the Italian border and ride among the most beautiful peaks in the Alps.
👉 Click here to see the route in detail and access the GPS map
Atlantic coast: 3 days in the Basque Country
September is the perfect season to combine motorcycling and surfing. The swell is at its best and the beaches are much less crowded. Between Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the roads of the Basque hinterland, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of sport, nature and local gastronomy.
👉 Click here to see the route in detail and access the GPS map
Tips for preparing your September road trip
Choose the right motorcycle for your itinerary
For the winding roads of the Alps, a trail bike like the Honda Transalp offers maneuverability and comfort over long distances. If you're riding along the Atlantic or Mediterranean coast, a roadster or custom will let you enjoy the scenery and seaside breaks to the full.
Think mid-season gear
In September, the weather can vary on the same day: a cool morning in the mountains can give way to a hot afternoon on the coast. Opt for modular clothing:
- Windproof and waterproof jacket.
- Light gloves for the day, warmer gloves for the evening.
- Technical underlay for cool mornings.
Book certain accommodations in advance
While many destinations are quieter, certain areas remain popular, such as small Provencal villages or lively seaside resorts. A little forethought goes a long way.
Conclusion: September is on the way
The roads are clear, the sun is still high and the landscapes are decked out in their most beautiful light. Leaving in September means enjoying the pleasure of driving in complete serenity, savouring every bend and every stop without restraint.
With Good Motors, you benefit from a service designed for freedom: online booking, 24/7 key collection, bikes ready to go and flexible cancellation if the weather changes.
This month of transition between summer and autumn is an invitation to set off: whether you choose the mild Mediterranean, the crisp Alpine air or the wild Atlantic, France's most beautiful roads are waiting for you.
Good Motors
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