Top 5 destinations for winter motorcycling

If you're dreaming of taking to the road in the dead of winter, but are still hesitating because of the cold, good news: despite the drop in temperatures, there are places in France where you can still enjoy memorable rides, almost like in the height of the season! Away from the summer crowds, you'll discover freer roads, sunshine that's sometimes surprisingly present, and sublime landscapes in off-season mode. Côte d'Azur, Provence, South Corsica, Pyrénées-Orientales, Camargue... so many destinations that combine pleasant curves, incredible panoramas and an authentic atmosphere. Whether you like winding mountain roads, hilltop villages or coastal charm, we're sure you'll find what you're looking for!

The Côte d'Azur: for lovers of beautiful curves and sunshine

The Côte d'Azur, with its Mediterranean climate, offers an ideal haven for bikers in search of sunshine and exciting winter roads. The region enjoys plenty of sunshine, even in January, and daytime temperatures vary between 10 and 15°C. The light here gives the landscape a magnificent hue, especially in mid-afternoon. Between the cornices and winding coastal paths between the sea and the mountains, every turn reveals a panorama that will make you wish you'd never made the trip! The picturesque villages along the way will give you the chance to take a well-deserved break around a small square with its famous fountain. And last but not least: winter traffic. With nothing to do here with the high season and its traffic jams, you'll be able to really enjoy the road without having to stand still!

Le Massif de l'Estérel: a reddish jewel for bikers

The Massif de l'Estérel, with its red rocks, is a must-see for any motorcyclist visiting the Côte d'Azur. Take the Corniche d'Or road (D559), which winds between Saint-Raphaël and Théoule-sur-Mer. This coastal road is top-notch for two-wheeled enthusiasts of all levels: flowing curves, gentle climbs and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. In winter, the low tourist numbers mean you can enjoy this route to the full, without stress. Along the way, stop off at Cap Dramont to admire the Lérins islands offshore, then continue on to the Pic de l'Ours, a high point offering panoramic views over the entire massif. The descent to Agay is a real pleasure to ride, with its tight bends and straight stretches.

Perched villages: Èze and Gourdon

From Nice, drive along the Moyenne Corniche to climb up to Èze, a small medieval village where cobbled streets wind around stone houses. Known for its local art and gastronomy, you'll have a good excuse to wander around and take a little break!

Then head for Gourdon via the D3, a mountainous road that passes through bucolic landscapes and offers numerous viewpoints from which to immortalize your ride. In Gourdon, the panoramic view of the Loup valley and the Mediterranean in the background is simply unforgettable.

Monaco and its legendary circuit

For motorcycle and speed enthusiasts, Monaco is a must. From Menton, take the Basse Corniche (D6098), an easy road that plunges you straight into the atmosphere of the Principality. Once there, take a motorcycle ride along the famous Formula 1 Grand Prix track: from the climb up to the Casino to the descent to the Fairmont bend, every metre breathes the history of this circuit. Finish your visit with a stop at Port Hercule, where you can admire the yachts and enjoy a drink on the terrace.

Provence: lavender fields and winding roads

Provence in winter is a prime destination for motorcyclists: soothing countryside, little-traveled roads, and a mild climate generally fluctuating between 9 and 14°C. You can discover a unique diversity of landscapes: from lavender fields to the unique gorges of Provence, to characterful hilltop villages. In winter, summer tourists make way for a quieter, more authentic atmosphere. Here, too, the roads lend themselves more to two-wheeled riding, without having to deal with summer traffic.

We recommend exploring the winding roads that wind through the mountains and plateaus of Provence, and stopping off at the local markets to sample the region's many specialties.

The Verdon Gorges Route

The Gorges du Verdon, nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of Europe", are the perfect playground for motorcyclists. Take the Corniche Sublime road (D71), which runs along the south bank of the gorges. This road offers spectacular panoramas, with viewpoints such as the Balcon de la Mescla and the Pont de l'Artuby. The succession of hairpin bends and long straights is guaranteed to give you a good thrill! In winter, the tranquility of the surroundings enhances the sense of adventure, and the sun's reflection on the Verdon River adds a very special atmosphere to the ride.

Luberon villages: Roussillon and Gordes

The Luberon, with its winding roads and hilltop villages, is also a top destination for motorcyclists. From Apt, take the D227 to Roussillon, famous for its ochre quarries and colorful houses. Continue on to Gordes via the D2, a road lined with fields and vineyards. At Gordes, the panorama of the valley and the Vaucluse mountains is breathtaking. Don't forget your camera on the way there - the contrast between the green hills and the white stone houses in the winter light is worth the detour!

South Corsica: the Isle of Beauty, even in winter

Corsica, and in particular the south of the island, is a real playground, even in winter. Boasting a mild Mediterranean climate, with daytime temperatures hovering around 12 to 16°C, this region promises some really great sunny walks!

Winter reveals an authentic Corsica, where the roads are virtually deserted and the landscapes even wilder. Bikers will appreciate the diversity of the itineraries: from steep coasts to verdant mountains, each road offers its share of technical curves and breathtaking panoramas.

From Porto-Vecchio to Bonifacio by the coast

Start your journey in Porto-Vecchio and take the T10 towards Bonifacio. This coastal road is a real nugget: at every turn, you'll discover fine sandy beaches, turquoise coves and impressive white cliffs. Take the time to stop off at Palombaggia beach, to enjoy the peace and quiet. As you approach Bonifacio, the road becomes even more spectacular: the limestone cliffs overlooking the sea offer a unique backdrop. Once there, you can take time to explore the fortified town and its medieval streets, before setting off on the road again.

The Aiguilles de Bavella: a technical and mountainous itinerary

The easiest way to reach the Aiguilles de Bavella is to take the D368 from Solenzara. This winding road climbs through pine forests and torrents, offering breathtaking views of the rocky peaks. The tight switchbacks and steep climbs will delight fans of technical driving. On arrival, a stop at the Col de Bavella (1243m) is a must to admire the scenery. In winter, the peacefulness of the surroundings makes the experience even more memorable.

Pyrénées-Orientales: between mountains and the Mediterranean

The Pyrénées-Orientales offers a sunny, dry climate in winter, with mild temperatures ranging from 8 to 14°C. This region offers roads that combine the charm and specific features of the different terrains encountered. Little traffic in winter and a variety of landscapes - beaches, vineyards and mountain passes - make this a destination not to be missed. Each bend reveals a unique panorama, and the atmosphere found in these Catalan villages will add that extra something to your rides!

The Col de Banyuls

From Banyuls-sur-Mer, take the D86 towards the Col de Banyuls. This winding road is ideal for a motorcycle outing, with spectacular views of the Mediterranean on one side and terraced vineyards on the other. The climb up the pass is punctuated by tight switchbacks that will put your road skills to the test. Once at the top, the view over the Roussillon plain and the sea is simply magnificent. The descent inland is just as pleasant, with possible stops at wine cellars to sample the famous Banyuls wine (in moderation, especially as it has a minimum alcohol content of 15°!).

Collioure and its coastal roads

Collioure, jewel of the Côte Vermeille, is a must for motorcyclists. From Perpignan, take the D914, a road that runs alongside the sea and offers a succession of gentle curves and truly stunning panoramas. At Collioure, park your bike and take a ride through this colorful village, with its narrow streets and picturesque little port. You can then get back on the road and continue on to Port-Vendres or Cerbère, to extend your ride along the coast - you won't regret it!

The Camargue: flat land and fresh air

The Camargue is an atypical destination, seducing visitors with its wild nature and calm, almost hushed atmosphere. In winter, the climate is mild and sunny, with temperatures around 10°C, perfect for relaxing motorcycle rides. The flat, open roads are ideal for more relaxed riding, and the landscapes, with their mix of marshes, wild beaches and ponds, offer a complete change of scenery. Away from the hustle and bustle of summer, you can take full advantage of the region's authenticity and rich cultural heritage. The fauna is particularly active in winter, with flights of pink flamingos, as well as the wild white horses that you can still come across, galloping in total freedom (you'll certainly have to put your motorcycle down somewhere and go for a ride to observe them).

The wild beaches of Espiguette

From Aigues-Mortes, take the road towards Le Grau-du-Roi and continue to the Espiguette beach. This immense stretch of sand bordered by dunes is perfect for a seaside break. The roads here are straight and clear, with little traffic in winter, making it a perfect route for riding and observing the surrounding landscape. Along the way, you'll have the chance to admire salt marshes and ponds inhabited by pink flamingos.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and its marshes

From Arles, take the D570 towards Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. This road takes you through the vast marshes of the Camargue, where you can also spot the famous herds of bulls, emblematic of the region. Once you've arrived in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, you can take the opportunity to stroll through the village, discovering its narrow streets and fortified church, and enjoy a coffee in one of the many terraces nearby. If you feel up to setting off again, you can even continue towards the Camargue nature park via the D85, a winding road that crosses ponds and wetlands.

Conclusion

Now you're ready to face winter on your two-wheeler, exploring those regions where the road is like a playground even when the thermometer is reluctant to climb. From the bright reds of the Estérel to the mildness of Provence, from the wild trails of Corsica to the Catalan panoramas of the Pyrénées-Orientales and the peaceful expanses of the Camargue, each trip offers you a unique interlude, with fewer tourists and a friendlier atmosphere. So don't hesitate: take the time to fine-tune your itinerary with our Goodroads page, check the condition of your tires, put on a good jacket and off you go! The cold will be no more than a mere detail compared to the moments to be experienced: unlikely encounters, deserted roads and blazing sunsets. For a real shot of freedom, winter is undoubtedly the best time to rediscover France by motorcycle... and fall even more in love with the road.

Whether from Toulouse, Nice, Marseille or Avignon, we also have a fleet of motorcycles ready to roll for the winter. Don't hesitate to take a look 😉

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