by D’Arcy Kavanagh
If you cycle the Col d’Eze from either Nice or Villefranche, you’re in for both a great workout and enough scenery to keep you remembering your adventure for years.
I began from our small, cozy, harbour-side RCI in Villefranche. I rode about 300 metres of flat. After that, it was up all the way to Eze, the perfume town, and beyond.
The route climbed into the downtown area, turned east then headed through a residential area that was all switchbacks with each bend providing another spectacular view of the jagged, mountainous coastline and endless vessels ranging from small sailboats to cruiseline giants.
High up, overlooking several towns, the road continued to climb eastward and slightly north. It was one hard kilometre after another, but every pedal stroke was rewarded for this ride is one of the best on the French Riviera – maybe the most glorious ride of all.
Then I was in Eze where tourists flocked to the perfumerie. After that, it was another steep climb to the top of the High Corniche road and the best view of all for it seemed all of the Riviera stretched out below.
So, there it is, a once-in-a-lifetime ride that will test your lungs and legs. But what rewards!
Tags: Cycling around Villefrance, Cycling to Eze, D'Arcy Kavanagh, France