L’Estérel, land of contrast
The Estérel massif, nestled in the Alpes-Maritimes, is a sanctuary that I deeply cherish. My first foray into this paradise dates back to my adolescence, during the Roc d’Azur, an emblematic competition for any cyclist. Since then, my pedals have trodden its trails many times: as a professional rider, then, more recently, as a gravel explorer, preparing a trip for Baroudeur Cycling. The Estérel is a land of contrasts. On one side, the flamboyant red rocks which stand proudly, silent witnesses to the erosion of time.
The Mediterranean, a pleasure for the eyes
On the other side, the Mediterranean, whose deep blue contrasts with the lush green of the vegetation. It is in this picturesque setting that gravel finds its full dimension. The trails, sometimes technical, sometimes fluid, offer a unique cycling experience, where each pedal stroke reveals a new panorama.
During my last expedition, I was in the company of Stéphane, a passionate local guide, and Christophe, a talented photographer. Our trio, driven by a common passion for gravel biking, traveled the trails in search of the hidden treasures of the Estérel.
During my last expedition, I was in the company of Stéphane, a passionate local guide, and Christophe, a talented photographer. Our trio, driven by a common passion for gravel biking, traveled the trails in search of the hidden treasures of the Estérel.
The human dimension above all
But beyond the sporting quest, it is the human dimension which marked this journey. During a well-deserved break, we stopped at a beach restaurant. Thanks to Stéphane’s relationship with the owner, we were welcomed like family. Sitting facing the sea, enjoying grilled fish, we shared invaluable moments of conviviality.
My trusty gravel bike, carefully protected in its special cover, was a silent witness to this adventure. With him, I rediscovered the Estérel, its demanding climbs and exhilarating descents. And thanks to Christophe’s expert eye, every moment was immortalized, so that these memories remain forever engraved.
My trusty gravel bike, carefully protected in its special cover, was a silent witness to this adventure. With him, I rediscovered the Estérel, its demanding climbs and exhilarating descents. And thanks to Christophe’s expert eye, every moment was immortalized, so that these memories remain forever engraved.
Every turn tells a story
Ultimately, the Estérel massif is much more than a training or competition place for me. It’s a place where every turn reveals a new story, where every climb is a challenge to overcome, and where every descent is a celebration of the freedom that cycling provides. And even though I’ve ridden these trails many times, the Estérel continues to amaze me, reminding me with each visit why I fell in love with cycling. Thanks to this experience and the organization of Baroudeur Cycling, I am ready to share this passion with others.
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