Riding high above the Gorges de la Nesque on one of its many ?balcony? roads carved into the canyon walls.

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Day 1: Arrival

The tour begins and ends in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a medieval village tucked into the mountains with views of the picturesque Mediterranean coast. The town is not far from iconic French Riviera cities like Cannes and Nice (which has the closest major airport), as well as the casinos and Formula 1 course in Monte Carlo, Monaco.

A pair of sportbikers make the climb to an alpine pass on a perfect riding day.

Like so many cities, towns, and villages in southern France, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is full of history and character. The picturesque walled city was initially a fortified medieval defense post and played a significant role in the French Revolution. For centuries it has been a lodestone for tourists, travelers, and artisans, as well as a significant center for the Impressionist and Expressionist art movements of the 20th century. Recently it was home to, and is the final resting place of, modern artist Marc Chagall, who bequeathed to the city some of his most significant works.
Part of what draws one here is the magical blend of tranquility and brilliance. For artists it?s the light, for others it?s the mild climate and rustic setting. For many it is simply the nearness and yet quiet respite from the hustle and bustle of France?s more famous Mediterranean cities.

On our first riding day, from S...