Pic de Bernardez

The Pic de Bernardez or Col de Bernardez is a scenic and technically varied circular tour in the Ubaye valley, which runs along mostly lonely paths and is particularly impressive in autumn with its splendid colors and distant views.

Description

The route starts in Le Lauzet-Ubaye. From here, the route rides steadily uphill, initially on asphalt and later on gravel. The ascent is initially pleasant to ride, but becomes increasingly challenging from around 1750 m above sea level: rough ground, washed-out sections and loose stones mean that the bike has to be pushed in places. The effort is rewarded - an impressive mountain panorama opens up at Col Bas, which shows its best side in the clear autumn air.

This is where the first intermediate downhill begins. Technically, this is at S1 to S2 level and allows for a smooth, enjoyable descent. After a short counter-climb, the traverse to the Col de Bernardez follows on a mostly easy-to-ride cart track with a trail character. If you still have energy reserves, you can optionally take the summit of the Pic de Bernardez with you - a detour that is rewarded with a large summit cross and breathtaking views to the north of the French Alps and to the south of the Maritime Alps.

The subsequent descent from the summit back down to the valley is between S2 and S2+, with individual sections at S3 level. The trail is varied, technically demanding and long overall - full concentration is required here over many meters of altitude. In the lower section, you finally reach Saint-Barthélémy, from where a relaxed transfer section back to the Ubaye valley follows. You roll back to Le Lauzet-Ubaye on a mix of side roads and short trail sections - with the opportunity to cool off in the Lac du Lauzet in summer and bring the tour to a relaxed close.

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