Summer is slowly coming to an end. The major tourist transhumances calm down, leaving behind clear roads, quiet terraces and a soft light that magnifies each landscape.
Riding a motorcycle is a real luxury: no need to anticipate traffic jams to cross a village, or to search for a parking space for a long time. We roll our nose in the wind, enjoying the smells of the end of summer, the ripe fig trees on the Côte d'Azur, the forests that are still green but already dotted with yellow in the mountains.
In September, the conditions are ideal for exploring France by motorbike: pleasant heat, still long days, more accessible accommodations. It is the perfect opportunity to treat yourself to a road trip combining freedom, discovery and driving pleasure.
Why choose September for your road trip?
Fewer people on the roads
The lines of motorhomes and cars loaded with suitcases left. Mythical roads, such as the Corniche d'Or on the Côte d'Azur or the hairpin bends of the Alpine passes, can be enjoyed in peace and quiet.
Perfect weather for driving
The sweltering heat of July and August gives way to mild temperatures, ideal for driving for several hours without suffering. In the mountains, the passes remain open but the air is fresher, perfect for keeping a good pace.
More advantageous rates
Hotels, guesthouses and restaurants often charge lower prices during the off-season. You can thus offer yourself more comfortable stopovers or extend your stay for the same budget.
More authentic experience
The inhabitants are getting back to their habits after the high season. You benefit from friendlier exchanges, less crowded markets and a peaceful atmosphere that makes each stop even more pleasant.
Our favorite itineraries for September
South of France: the Var and the Côte d'Azur from Nice
In September, good weather is guaranteed on the Côte d'Azur. Seaside resorts such as Saint-Tropez or Cannes are regaining their tranquility, and the roads along the Mediterranean offer exceptional panoramas. Between still warm beaches, hilltop villages and small winding roads, it is a pure pleasure to drive without the crowds.
👉 Click here to discover the itinerary in detail and to access the GPS track
Mountain: the Tour of Mont Blanc departing from Lyon
In September, the major alpine passes such as the Col du Petit Saint-Bernard are still open, but the traffic is much more fluid. It is the ideal period to discover the exceptional panoramas around Mont Blanc, cross the Italian border and ride in the middle of the most beautiful peaks of the Alps.
👉 Click here to discover the itinerary in detail and to access the GPS track
Atlantic coast: 3 days in the Basque Country
September is the perfect season to combine motorcycling and surfing. The swell is at its best and the beaches are much less busy. Between Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the roads of the Basque hinterland, this itinerary offers you a perfect mix between sport, nature and local gastronomy.
👉 Click here to discover the itinerary in detail and to access the GPS track
Tips for preparing for your September road trip
Choose the right bike for your itinerary
For the winding roads of the Alps, a trail like the Honda Transalp offers maneuverability and comfort over long distances. To drive along the Atlantic or Mediterranean coast, a roadster or a custom will allow you to fully enjoy the landscapes and breaks by the sea.
Consider mid-season equipment
In September, the weather can vary on the same day: a cool morning in the mountains can give way to a hot afternoon on the coast. Opt for modular clothing:
- Wind and waterproof jacket.
- Light gloves for the day and warmer for the evening.
- Technical underlay for cool mornings.
Book some accommodations in advance
While many destinations are quieter, some areas remain popular, such as small Provençal villages or seaside resorts that are still lively. A minimum of foresight will prevent you from wasting time on site.
Conclusion: September is waiting for you
The roads are free, the sun is still high and the landscapes are adorned with their most beautiful lights. Leaving in September means enjoying the pleasure of driving in complete serenity, of enjoying each turn and each stop without constraint.
With Good Motors, you benefit from a service designed for freedom: online booking, 24/7 key collection, motorcycles ready to go and flexible cancellation if the weather changes.
This month of transition between summer and autumn is an invitation to leave: whether you choose the mild Mediterranean, the bright air of the Alps or the wild Atlantic, the most beautiful roads in France are waiting for you.
