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Col de Vence
This pass marks the transition between heavy coastal traffic
and the start of potentially paradise like cycling over low
passes to the north and east.
From East. I approached this pass by following the
bike path on the coast to Cagnes-sur-Mer, and then followed road
signs to Vence. My guess is, that somebody familiar with this
maze of traffic knows a million better ways, and none worse. But
actually, it wasn't bad, heavy traffic but good shoulder most of
the way - and I never had to stop to wonder where I should turn
next. Across four lanes of traffic: a nice view of
Tourrettes-sur-Loupes, another hilltown. I remembered reading in
tourist brochure, saying how essential it was to not miss this
town. Actually, the towns on the other side of the pass turned
out to be much more appealing. - Or maybe it was just those four
lanes of traffic that made it seem that way. In any case - the
second picture shows the view without the traffic. In Vence conditions change radically. The traffic stays in
the valley. From now on I saw more bicycles than cars. A coastal
breeze blew in heavy clouds, turning the scenery into something
almost Scottish. The vegetation on the other hand becomes very
sparse. I guessed that on top there would be a great view of the
sea and a craggy limestone cliff to the east. I could tell I was
on top, when I saw all the cyclists putting on their jackets.
From
West. (described downwards) The road road remains
roughly at summit elevation for quite a while and then traverses
a section that is a little higher than the pass itself. The
vegetation returns quickly. During my descent the wind blew a
hole into the cloudy sky. The most memorable scene on this
side was the view of the next hill town, Coursegoules (last
picture). From point 5 the profile descends further down valley
on D6 through the Gorge de Loup to Pont de Loup to maximize the
elevation gain. My own route took turned right at point 5,
continuing to Greolieres.
Extended Tours: (|D2 Clue des Grolieres(sh)>) 177 bd de l'Observatoire, Nice > bike path along cote d'Azure south > east of Cagnes-sur-Mere > Vence > col de Vence > D2 > Greolieres (including several miles around this area): 39.0miles with 4380ft of climbing in 4:14hours on a fully loaded mountain bike(VDO MC1.0 m4:12.15) Day Rides from the same starting point (177 bd de l'Observatoire, Nice) are on pages: Col de Madone Col de Turini Col d'Eze Col de Porte D215-D216 Berre les Alpes s(u)
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Passes in Europe 
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Approaches
