Nestled in the heart of the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park, Millau has become a true epicenter of gravel riding in France in recent years. This corner of Aveyron paradise combines breathtaking landscapes, an exceptional network of trails, and a deep-rooted outdoor culture. It's simple: just an hour from Montpellier, you already feel like you're somewhere else. And often, the comparison comes back to the wide open spaces of Arizona or Colorado. Just that.

A UCI race that puts Millau on the world gravel map

Every year, Millau hosts a stage of the UCI Gravel World Series , bringing together the best international specialists in the discipline on a demanding, wild and splendid course. In 2024, the race once again brought together hundreds of enthusiasts who came to compete in the Causses, Larzac and the Gorges du Tarn, in an atmosphere that was both competitive and friendly. This event has clearly contributed to establishing Millau as a top European gravel destination.

©explore-millau.co

An iconic local brand: Wish One Cycles

Based in Millau, Wish One Cycles designs high-end gravel bikes that compete in the biggest international competitions. The brand draws on field experience and a design 100% focused on performance and adventure. Their models, developed and tested on the trails of the Grands Causses, embody French excellence.

Hundreds of kilometers of tracks and paths

With its limestone plateaus , deep gorges , pine forests , farm tracks , white roads and hilltop villages , the Millau region is full of gravel routes. Whether you're looking for long endurance rides, independent bikepacking or contemplative strolls, you'll find something to satisfy your thirst for adventure. Some circuits are close to 100 km of pure bliss between rolling trails, singletracks and technical descents.

On KOMOOT , you'll find a wide range of trails that have been tested and approved by the local community. Among the must-sees:

• The Causse Noir tour (expert level, 80 km, +2000 m)

• Exploring Larzac via La Couvertoirade (intermediate level, 65 km)

• The balconies of the Tarn at sunset (easy level, 40 km)

• Crossing the Causse Méjean (bikepacking adventure, 2 days, +3000 m)

A western setting 1 hour from Montpellier

This is one of Millau's greatest strengths: its ease of access from the coast. In less than an hour from Montpellier, you go from the Mediterranean to a western setting, where griffon vultures cross the slender wheels on the limestone ridges. This feeling of instant change of scenery is a rare luxury, making Millau an ideal spot for a long weekend or a more intense training camp. Many cyclists compare it to Colorado or certain regions of the southwestern United States.

Turnkey gravel trips

Want to be guided? Our partner GravelUp offers turnkey gravel adventures in Millau and other exceptional regions. Professional guidance, optimized logistics, charming accommodations, and carefully planned routes: the perfect combination for experiencing gravel in its most immersive form.

The energy to go far

And to never run out of fuel during your gravel rides in Millau, remember to take COOKNRUN . Our range covers everything you need for a one-day gravel ride: ENERGY energy bars . before & during exercise, PROTEIN protein bars . for recovery or when you're feeling really low, and BIVOUAC freeze-dried meals for meals. 100% organic, and everything is made in our own lab in Angers! Isn't life beautiful?

Because riding light, but well-fed, is also the gravel spirit.

©nomad.vanture

FAQ – Gravel in Millau

When is the best time to go gravel biking in Millau?
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are the ideal times to ride on the Causses. The temperatures are mild, the light is magnificent, and the trails are passable.

Can you rent a gravel bike in Millau?
Yes, several local structures offer gravel bike rental, notably through specialized agencies .

Are there any courses suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Some routes available on Komoot or via GravelUp are accessible to beginners. For example: the Balconies du Tarn or the Dourbie Valley.

What equipment do you recommend?
A well-shod gravel bike (38-45 mm tires), a good supply of water (fountains are rare), a GPS like Wahoo or Garmin with KOMOOT tracks, and of course energy snacks like those from COOKNRUN.

Is Millau suitable for bikepacking?
Yes, with its wide open spaces, its lodges, its bivouac spots and its refuges, Millau is a perfect base for setting off independently for several days.

Header photo: © Virg Govignon // GRAVEL LARZAC EXPERIENCE