There can be no doubt that the best motorcycle routes France has to offer are spectacular. They impress not only when riding them but also through the hospitality you can expect along the way. Whether you are interested in motorcycle touring in the South of France to explore its picturesque interior or motorcycle touring in the Alps, France is a diverse country with something to suit every type of rider.

Just like the top motorcycle routes in Spain, you don't need to be an expert navigator to enjoy the best motorcycle routes in France. The roads are generally well-maintained, and frequent road signs make it easy to stay on track. Even if you don’t speak French fluently, you’ll still get by without needing any specialist navigational equipment. Read on to discover more about motorcycle touring in France, based on XLMoto's extensive experience of travelling through the country.

Route des Grandes Alpes Motorcycle Route

The Route des Grandes Alpes is a French motorcycle touring route like no other. Like other Alpine motorbike routes, it affords spectacular views and winding roads that are fun to ride on. Considered by many to be the best motorcycle route in France, this is the ideal choice for anyone who wants to learn what it takes to get into motorcycle touring in the French Alps.

The Route des Grandes Alpes Motorcycle Route in a Nutshell

Running from Lake Geneva near the Swiss border to the Mediterranean coast in the south, the Route des Grandes Alpes Motorcycle Route stretches out for about 450 miles. It includes over a dozen alpine passes, some of which are truly breathtaking, ending in the pleasant resort of Menton.

Highlights of Riding the Route des Grandes Alpes Motorcycle Route

Motorcycle touring in the Alps, France, doesn't come much better than riding over the impressive Col de l’Iseran, Europe’s highest paved road. You’ll also cross the stunning Col du Galibier, a highlight of many Tour de France stages. Snow-capped peaks and picturesque villages line the route, making it a joy to ride in every season. In summer, the cooler air from the higher elevations is less of an issue, so the ride feels especially rewarding.

Potential Challenges of Riding the Route des Grandes Alpes Motorcycle Route

In the height of summer, you’ll find many cyclists sharing the route with bikers, so you need to keep your wits about you. Some of the Alpine cols are closed in the bleak winter months when skiing is more practical than biking, but it depends from year to year which ones are shut. Expect tight hairpins and steep gradients, so good bike maintenance is essential. Still, the challenge is part of the attraction. These roads wouldn’t be nearly as fun if they weren’t technically demanding.

Verdon Gorge Motorcycle Route

Sometimes referred to as the Grand Canyon of Europe, the Verdon Gorge is a place of great natural beauty. There are several different loops you can choose to ride here. Most of them set off from the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, often considered to be the gateway to the gorge.

The Verdon Gorge Motorcycle Route in a Nutshell

Expect to ride somewhere between 60 and 100 miles on this motorcycle route. It is shorter than some of the others in Europe, but that is part of its appeal. Choose one of the shorter loops, and you could complete it in a single day. This makes it ideal for riders with limited time, especially those travelling across the country with only a day or two to spare.

Highlights of Riding the Verdon Gorge Motorcycle Route

The Verdon Gorge ranks among the very best motorcycle routes in France. It combines winding mountain roads with clifftop stretches that deliver panoramic views seemingly without end. Noteworthy viewpoints include Point Sublime and Balcons de la Mescla. The turquoise waters of the Verdon River below add even more to the spectacle.

Potential Challenges of Riding the Verdon Gorge Motorcycle Route

Fog is an issue in and around Verdon Gorge. Be prepared for all weathers, even in the height of summer. The roads aren't wide, so there are few overtaking spots. This is a ride that requires technical dexterity and patience.

The Napoleon Route Motorcycle Ride

Considered by many to be a classic motorbike route, the Napoleon is among the top motorcycle routes on the continent. What makes it so special is the sweeping bends and often open roads that make for such enjoyable riding. It also mixes some coastal riding with more challenging mountainous terrain.

The Napoleon Route Motorcycle Ride in a Nutshell

Starting at Golfe-Juan, near Cannes on the French Riviera, this route runs to Grenoble in the foothills of the French Alps. Attractive towns like Digne-les-Bains and Sisteron provide good places to stay overnight en route, while Grenoble itself is a superb destination in its own right.

Highlights of the Napoleon Route Motorcycle Ride

About 200 miles long, this route is well-marked with Route Napoleon signs along the way, offering a reasonably challenging ride for all but the most experienced tourers. Initially, the coastal roads of Provence provide pretty views before you get to the more dramatic scenery inland. For some, following in the footsteps of Napoleon's famous route also makes history come to life somewhat.

Potential Challenges of Riding the Napoleon Route Motorcycle Ride

Some of the latter sections of the route have tight switchbacks, which demand full concentration. You might also get caught up in tourist traffic near Cannes, especially in summer. Note that the route is often hot to begin with, but considerably cooler as you get closer to your destination.

Alsace Wine Road Motorcycle Tour

Close to some of Germany's top motorcycle routes, this option ranks among the best motorcycle routes France has to offer on its eastern flank. The wine-growing region may not have the dramatic scenery of motorcycle touring in South France, but it still provides riders with plenty of adventure.

The Alsace Wine Road Motorcycle Tour in a Nutshell

This route begins in Marlenheim, near the border city of Strasbourg. From there, it runs south to Thann, close to Mulhouse. The ride covers just over 100 miles. True to its name, the route passes through numerous vineyards. You’ll also encounter rolling hills and traditional half-timbered Alsatian villages along the way.

Highlights of Riding the Alsace Wine Road Motorcycle Tour

Spring and autumn highlight the natural splendour of this part of the world. High summer is also a good time to ride it, but it can get hot. There are plenty of places on the route to stop and sample local produce. Check into a hotel or motel en route before trying some of the local wine, though.

Potential Challenges of Riding the Alsace Wine Road Motorcycle Tour

Narrow, cobbled streets are a feature of some of the villages and towns in the area. These stretches won’t suit all motorcycles, but they can be avoided with a little forward planning. With so many tasting sessions available, the biggest challenge for most riders is resisting a drink when there’s still more road ahead.

Corsica Coastal Motorcycle Route

When you realise that some of the best motorcycle routes in Italy aren't on the mainland but on Italian islands, it’s easy to overlook Corsica. This French island in the Mediterranean lies just off Sardinia, and it is truly beautiful, with rugged coastal roads made for motorcycle tours.

The Corsica Coastal Motorcycle Route in a Nutshell

You can ride up to 125 miles on this route. Shorter options are available if you need to curtail your journey. Many riders choose the western coast, typically travelling between Calvi and Ajaccio, or the other way around.

Highlights of Riding the Corsica Coastal Motorcycle Route

With less crowded roads than many of the other best motorcycle routes in France, this ride lets you truly lose yourself. Corsica still feels wild and untamed, making it a perfect choice for riders who enjoy that kind of experience. Expect dramatic shifts in height, with every corner revealing something new.

Potential Challenges of Riding the Corsica Coastal Motorcycle Route

Narrow and twisting coastal roads can be tiring, so take plenty of breaks and stay hydrated, especially in summer. Campervans can sometimes cause delays on uphill sections, but the hold-ups rarely last long. Be prepared to encounter slow-moving traffic now and then. On more exposed stretches, strong winds can catch you off guard, so always stay alert.