Côte d’Azur Event of the Month – October 2026: Roc d’Azur in Fréjus

Every October, Fréjus becomes the centre of the mountain biking world, adding five days of international cycling and outdoor sport to a destination already known for its Roman heritage, Mediterranean beaches and easy access to the Estérel. From 7 to 11 October 2026, the Roc d’Azur CIC returns for its 42nd edition, bringing together professional athletes, enthusiastic amateurs, families and outdoor-sport lovers for five action-packed days on the Côte d’Azur.

The scale of the event is remarkable. Around 20,000 participants take part in the different disciplines, while approximately 100,000 visitors are expected to experience the races, exhibitions and activities surrounding the event. Yet the story of the Roc d’Azur began on a very different scale. In 1984, just seven riders took part in the first edition. What started as an adventurous mountain-bike challenge has developed into one of the world's leading celebrations of cycling and outdoor sport.

Fréjus has been the event's main base since 1997, with the Base Nature François Léotard forming its bustling heart. From here, routes extend through some of the most beautiful landscapes of the Var, including Roquebrune-sur-Argens, Saint-Raphaël and the Massif des Maures and Estérel. Riders encounter forest tracks, rocky climbs, technical descents and magnificent Mediterranean scenery.

Mountain biking remains at the heart of the Roc d’Azur, but the programme has become remarkably diverse. Gravel cycling, road cycling, electric mountain bikes, trail running, hiking, canicross and events for children now form part of the five-day programme. This makes the Roc interesting not only for serious competitors but also for families and visitors who simply enjoy sport and the outdoors.

The most famous race takes place on Sunday. The Roc d’Azur CIC covers 55 kilometres with 1,275 metres of climbing, taking riders through the Massif des Maures before returning to the finish at the Base Nature in Fréjus. For those looking for an even greater challenge, Friday's Roc Marathon covers more than 100 kilometres.

There is plenty to experience without getting on a bicycle. The event Village at the Base Nature brings together around 300 exhibitors and is free to enter. It is an opportunity to discover new bicycles and equipment, meet personalities from the cycling world and enjoy the lively atmosphere surrounding one of the biggest sporting gatherings in the region.

October is also a wonderful month to discover this part of the Côte d’Azur. The intense summer heat has passed, the roads and beaches are quieter and the mild Mediterranean climate is ideal for walking, cycling and exploring the countryside. Nearby Saint-Aygulf offers a complete change of pace after a day at the Roc, with Mediterranean beaches, coastal walks and the natural landscape of the Étangs de Villepey.The distinctive red rocks of the Estérel Massif, with its forest trails, dramatic peaks and Mediterranean viewpoints, provide an impressive backdrop at this time of year, while the wooded hills of the Var are particularly inviting for walking and cycling.

Whether you come to compete, support a rider or simply enjoy the atmosphere, the Roc d’Azur shows a completely different side of the French Riviera. Away from yachts and glamorous resorts, this is a Côte d’Azur of forests, mountains, sporting challenges and spectacular natural landscapes.

Planning to visit the Roc d’Azur? Discover our holiday homes and holiday villas on the Côte d’Azur and combine five days of cycling and outdoor sport with a relaxing stay in the South of France.