The most beautiful villages around Lorgues to visit by bike

Ride through vineyards, olive groves, lavender fields and Provençal heritage

How about using your holidays to explore the hidden treasures around Lorgues by bike? With wooded hills, endless vineyards, hilltop villages and authentic local life, central Var offers the perfect backdrop for gentle, charming rides. And thanks to the electric assistance on all our bikes, these routes are accessible to everyone, even on the steeper climbs.

1. Flayosc — Cobbled streets and Provençal art de vivre

Just 9 km from Lorgues via a bike path built on an old railway line, Flayosc is ideal for a morning escape. The path is pleasant, partially shaded, and crosses beautiful rolling landscapes with no real difficulty. Once there, you can stroll through narrow streets lined with Provençal houses, admire ancient fountains, and enjoy a refreshing break on a terrace.

You can also loop through Château Saint-Esprit and Château Roubine, two renowned wine estates between Lorgues, Flayosc and Draguignan. These stops are perfect for a tasting, a short vineyard walk, or picking up a chilled rosé to enjoy with a picnic.

Unusual bonus: the route passes near the well-known Draguignan prison… but don’t worry, the only bars you’ll encounter are the wine cellars!

Market day: Monday morning

2. Le Thoronet — A peaceful village and a majestic abbey

About 14 km from Lorgues, Le Thoronet is famous for its Cistercian abbey, a Romanesque masterpiece in a peaceful, contemplative setting.

You can partly avoid the main road by taking quieter, shaded routes, including farm roads that are perfect for cycling.

You might also cross through the Château La Martinette estate, one of the region’s most beautiful vineyards, for full immersion in Provençal nature and wine culture.

Want to cool off? Take a detour to Plage des Fadons on the banks of the river Argens. It’s a pleasant spot for a break by the water… though it can get quite busy in summer, especially on weekends.

Market day: Thursday morning

3. Tourtour — The village in the sky

At 23 km from Lorgues, Tourtour offers spectacular views across Provence. The route includes a fair bit of climbing, but with electric assistance, it becomes a pleasure. The village features an artistic vibe with galleries, fountains, and charming terraces where the time seems to stand still here.

On the way to Tourtour, you can ride through the prestigious Château de Berne wine estate, nestled in the forest with excellent bike-friendly paths.

For the return journey, a scenic loop through Villecroze and Salernes adds more charm. From there, rejoin the old railway bike path for a smooth, safe ride back to Lorgues.

You can also stop at Château Mentone, located right next to the cycle path, perfect for a cool-down break or wine tasting (reservation recommended).

Market days: Wednesday and Saturday mornings — Night craft markets on select summer evenings

4. Entrecasteaux — History and Provençal charm

This lovely medieval village, 15 km from Lorgues, is home to a grand château surrounded by formal gardens designed by Le Nôtre. Wander through cobbled streets, admire flowered balconies, and soak in the timeless atmosphere.

You can reach it via the old railway bike path to Salernes, then continue on a quiet country road.

For the return, go through Saint-Antonin-du-Var, completing a varied loop through forest, vineyards and quaint hamlets.

Several wine estates lie along this route, perfect for short tasting breaks:

• Château Mentone: wine cellar, boutique and restaurant (booking recommended)

• Clos d’Alari: family-run natural vineyard, known for its orange wines and sparkling “Rock&Rolle” (tasting by appointment only)

• Domaine de Gavaisson: renowned for elegant, floral white wines with exceptional length (tasting by appointment only)

Market day: Tuesday morning

5. Salernes — Ceramics, markets and local life

Roughly 20 km from Lorgues, Salernes is worth a visit for its colourful alleys, fountains, and artisan shops. It’s easily accessible via the old railway bike path, safe and enjoyable.

Don’t miss the natural swimming pool in the Bresque river, perfect for a refreshing dip after your ride.

Gourmet detour: Visit La Bastide du Capelier, known for exceptional artisan-made candied figs, fig vinegar, liqueur and jam, a local delicacy to enjoy on the spot or bring home.

Market days: Wednesday and Sunday mornings

Want to extend your adventure? From Salernes, you can:

• Ride 6 km further to Sillans-la-Cascade and its spectacular waterfall (well-marked pedestrian access)

• Loop through Villecroze, a peaceful troglodyte village

• Or return via Entrecasteaux, crossing forests and vineyards for a wilder experience

6. Taradeau — Vineyards, views and hidden heritage

Still off the tourist radar, Taradeau is a peaceful Provençal village about 8 km from Lorgues, offering a mix of vineyards, hills and historic sites.

Avoid the main road by taking rustic gravel paths, adjust your saddle and pace for comfort.

At the top of the village, the Tour de Taradel offers a breathtaking panorama. A viewing table helps identify surrounding villages and mountain ranges. The climb is steep, but the view is well worth it!

Near the village, the Château de Taradel restaurant serves delicious seasonal cuisine in a relaxed setting with amazing views, a great lunch or sunset stop.

Wine lovers shouldn’t miss Château Saint Martin, a prestigious estate producing classified growths and craft spirits, all offered in a stylish, welcoming setting.

Local food stop: Fromagerie Bertin, famous for its outstanding goat cheeses aged on-site, ideal for a 100% local picnic.

Extend the route via Taradeau road, which loops past some exceptional vineyards:

• Château Rasque (elegant cuvées, modern winery)

• Château de Selle (Domaines Ott), iconic for top-tier rosé

• Château Saint-Esprit (rustic charm)

• Château Roubine, one of the oldest estates in Provence (classified Cru Classé)

For stronger cyclists, the ride can continue to Les Arcs-sur-Argens, with stunning views, then return via Trans-en-Provence, with stops at the Himalayan footbridge and the aerial well, before riding through Cassivet, a scenic stretch between vineyards and hills.

Around Les Arcs, don’t miss:

• Château Sainte Roseline: historic chapel and exceptional wines

• Château Font du Broc: hillside vineyard with a stunning vaulted cellar

• Château Les Clarettes: charming family-run estate

• Domaine du Bois des Demoiselles: a wild, authentic Provençal experience

Market day: no regular market, but you’ll find a good bakery and some local producers in town

Practical tip:

Many producers mentioned (wineries, cheesemakers, artisans...) are often present at local markets or accept advance bookings. It’s best to contact them ahead of time to ensure they’ll be available and to plan your itinerary efficiently.

Suggested circuits from Lorgues:

• Discovery Ride: Lorgues → Flayosc → Château Roubine → return (approx. 20 km)

• Heritage Circuit: Lorgues → Le Thoronet → Château La Martinette → Entrecasteaux → return via Saint-Antonin (approx. 30 km)

• Panoramic Escape: Lorgues → Château de Berne → Tourtour → Villecroze → Salernes → return via the bike path (approx. 45 km)

• Gourmet Adventure: Lorgues → Taradeau → Les Arcs → Trans-en-Provence → return via Cassivet (approx. 50 km)

With electric assistance, even the hilliest routes are enjoyable. Perfect for taking in the Provençal scenery without breaking a sweat!

Rent your electric bike with Châteaux à Vélo

All our bikes come with electric assistance for maximum comfort. Delivery available to your accommodation around Lorgues. Helmet and lock included.

Book easily at www.chateauxvelo.com