Provence & The Costa Brava: Short But Sweet

At just over a week long, this section of the Trans-Europa Cycling Tour packs a lot into 850 kms. It begins in Nice with its incredible pair of Art Museums – Musée Matisse and Musée Marc Chagall, stops for a rest day in Montpellier, home to some of the world’s most striking modern architecture such as the Saint-Roch train station designed by Christian Lacroix, and finishes in Barcelona, famous for its local cuisine like botifarra amb mongetes (beans and sausages) and paella.

There is more! Along the route, riders will discover some lesser known highlights that are equally deserving of their attention.

Moissac Bellevue (Aups)

Chateau de Taurenne

Cycling into Aups at the end of the first stage of this section, riders should keep an eye out for the imposing Chateau de Taurenne on their left. Built by the Order of the Templars in the 12th century it is one of the last buildings in the area still remaining from the Middle Ages. Since 1999 over 11,000 olive trees have been planted around the chateau and riders can visit its olive oil mill and try some of the notable local varieties like Bouteillan, Aglandau, Ribier, Grossane or Cayon.

Salon-de-Provence

In addition to featuring a family-run soap factory with a small museum detailing the industry’s local history, Salon-de-Provence is best known as the place where Nostradamus spent his last years (1544 – 1566). He was buried in a local church and his old residence now houses a museum where displays of his scrolls and other documents tell the story of his life.

Saint-Cyprien

With an average of over 320 days of sunshine each year, riders are pretty much guaranteed a pleasant visit to the city’s fabulous port. They can watch the daily catch arrive early in the morning or enjoy a delicious meal at one of the waterfront restaurants…fresh fish, of course. There is also a sprawling beach or the relaxing Jardin des Plantes des Capellans to explore before the next stage of cycling.

Tossa de Mar

The historic city of Tossa de Mar, located just across the border in Spain features some spectacular beaches and amazing views out over the Mediterranean. It is also known for its Vila Vella, a fortified medieval town dating from the 14th century. Within its well preserved walls, complete with turrets and towers, are cobblestoned streets and a number of historical buildings including the ancient Hospital of Sant Miquel.

RELATED
TOUR