Motorcycle routes in France beyond the Alps: Pyrenees, Auvergne, Corsica and Alsace

Say “France by motorcycle” and most people think of the Alps. But some of the country’s best roads are elsewhere, with less traffic and completely different scenery. This guide gathers our favourite routes outside the Alps and Provence, from north to south.

French Pyrenees

Coming from Portugal or Spain, the Pyrenees are the natural way in. The Tourmalet is the most famous pass; the Aubisque has the most spectacular stretch, the road cut into the cliff of the Cirque du Litor. Add the Peyresourde and the Aspin for a full day of Tour de France passes.

Massif Central

Central France is the best-kept secret: empty roads, green everywhere and endless bends. The Puy Mary road crosses the Auvergne volcanoes, and the Gorges du Tarn follow the river through a limestone canyon to the Millau viaduct.

Corsica

The “island of beauty” doesn’t have a single straight. The Calanques de Piana are the most beautiful coastal road in France, the Col de Bavella crosses the red granite mountains, and the Cap Corse loop takes a full day. Ferries leave from Nice, Toulon and Marseille.

Vosges and Alsace

In the east, the Route des Crêtes follows the ridge of the Vosges, with an obligatory stop at a ferme-auberge. Down on the plain, the Alsace Wine Route is a slow ride through half-timbered villages.

Normandy

And for a day out near Paris, the Alabaster Coast follows the white cliffs from Étretat to Dieppe.

Tips for riding in France

• Certified gloves are mandatory and helmets must carry reflective stickers; a hi-vis vest must be carried on the bike.
• Speed limits are enforced with many cameras: 80 km/h on undivided secondary roads.
• Motorways are tolled. For the routes in this guide, national and departmental roads are more scenic and free.
• Outside towns, many fuel stations are card-only on Sundays and at night.