Electric Mountain Bike Rentals in Castellane: Explore the Verdon Effortlessly

Want to ride the scenic roads and secret trails of the Verdon Valley without dreading the steep mountain terrain? An electric mountain bike (e-MTB or VTTAE in French) is the perfect alternative to venture into our magnificent valley! This eco-friendly mode of transport fits perfectly with our guiding philosophy: "The spirit of sport and nature in the Verdon Gorge."

Ideal for an outing that is both playful and active, an electric bike gives you smooth access to trails, backroads, and viewpoints that you might never dare to attempt on a standard bicycle. Enjoy the complete freedom to stop whenever you want: to take a stunning photo, dive into the emerald water for a swim, or simply breathe in the wild scents of thyme and lavender. It is the absolute perfect compromise between effort and comfort!

Rental Rates and Packages

Because we are in the South of France—where taking your time is a lifestyle—our rental packages are designed to match the relaxed rhythm of your holiday:

Half-Day Package (4 Hours) : 30 euros / bike Flexible pick-up and drop-off times tailored to your schedule (starting from 08:30 AM, final return before 07:00 PM). Ideal for a crisp, energetic getaway.

Full-Day Package : 50 euros / bike Pick-up from 08:30 AM and return before 07:00 PM. The ultimate formula to roam freely, enjoy a wilderness picnic, try out route variations, and indulge in long swimming breaks.

Long-Term Stay Option (From 2 Days to a Week) : On estimate / quote Want to keep the bikes at your accommodation? We provide you with the batteries and chargers for total autonomy, meaning you do not have to bring the bikes back to our base every evening. (Available outside of July and August).

Our 2 Flagship Mapped Routes Departing from Castellane

To help you discover the region according to your desires, we provide you with two superb, custom-mapped itineraries:

Route 1: The Lake Loop (25 km – Easy & Aquatic)

This loop utilizes exclusively quiet, paved backroads and easy wide tracks. It leads you alongside the turquoise waters of Lake Chaudanne and Lake Castillon before looping back to the historic village of Castellane.

The Profile : Zero stress! The climbing is concentrated entirely at the very beginning of the ride. The return journey from the lakes consists almost exclusively of a gentle downhill glide. Even if you manage to completely use up the battery, the ride back to our base requires almost no pedaling effort!

Secret Detours & Variations : From the main loop, you can easily take scenic side roads. One variation leads you to the beautiful perched village of Demandolx. Another lets you explore the medieval ruins of the Hameau de Ville with its ancient castle and an extraordinary panoramic view over the lake. More active riders can push the loop further to reach Saint-Julien-du-Verdon and its shaded beach at Baie du Touron.

The Castillon Dam (The Largest Sundial in the World) : While crossing this impressive EDF engineering structure (with Lake Castillon on your right and Lake Chaudanne on your left), stop to admire the giant sundial emblazoned on the concrete. Designed by scientists Denis Savoie and Roland Lehoucq, its hour lines cover a staggering 13,000 square meters across the curvature of the dam!

Ice Cream & Pedal Boat Break : After crossing the dam, enjoy a final swim. Stop by Jean-Claude's nautical base, Le Sirocco, for a quick Stand-Up Paddle or pedal boat rental, and above all, to enjoy a delicious ice cream.

End the Day Like a Local : Back in Castellane, take your time to stroll through the narrow stone alleys, explore the local craft shops, or watch a classic game of pétanque on the main square, Place Marcel Sauvaire.

Route 2: The Hamlets of Castellane (Sporty & Historical)

This second itinerary is slightly more technical and takes you on a journey of discovery through two magnificent, historic mountain hamlets: Robion and Eoulx.

1. The Ascent to Robion : Departing from our base, after a straight line toward Castellane, turn left just before the bridge (by the municipal swimming pool). This marks the beginning of a narrow, winding road that snakes along the bottom of a small canyon before entering deep pine forests. Remember to manage your electrical assistance level wisely here!
2. The Saint-Thyrse Chapel (10th Century) : At the mountain pass, take a 5-minute detour to admire this exceptional jewel of early Romanesque art. Although currently undergoing restoration and closed to the public, it is beautifully striking from the viewing area.
3. The Forest Descent : Enjoy a long, thrilling downhill glide toward the village of Le Bourguet. Caution: the turn-off for Eoulx is located right at the entrance of the village on your left. Do not miss it, as the start of the path is very steep!
4. The Maurin-Clare Forest : You will ride along wide tracks inside a superb national forest, straddling the border between the Var and the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence departments. On your way, make sure to stop at Destination Ailleurs, a unique, warm, and welcoming local spot.
5. The Hamlet of Eoulx : A few more pedal strokes bring you onto the beautiful village square of Eoulx, featuring its old castle, a large traditional washhouse (lavoir), welcoming locals, and an exceptional sweeping panorama. The loop back to our base goes via the small village of La Garde and its distinct green-roofed church. (Exercise caution during summer on the final 5 minutes of the descent along the Route de Grasse).

Our e-Bike Fleet Characteristics

For your comfort and safety, Buena Vista Rafting provides a fleet of 18 premium electric mountain bikes divided into 4 frame sizes:

Sizes Available : Junior, S, M, and L.

Rider Requirements : To ride our cycles safely, a minimum height of 140 cm (4 feet 7 inches) and a maximum weight of 100 kg (220 lbs) are strongly recommended.

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

What is the battery autonomy? Our batteries are perfectly sized to let you complete the grand Lake Loop (Castillon and Chaudanne) without any range anxiety. You can expect between 50 to 80 km of autonomy depending on the elevation changes, the rider's weight, and the level of assistance utilized.

Are helmets and safety accessories included? Yes, absolutely! For your safety and comfort, every single rental includes at no extra cost: a certified safety helmet, a heavy-duty bike lock, and an emergency repair kit in case of a flat tire.

Is it necessary to book in advance? It is highly recommended. As our fleet is strictly limited to 18 bikes, we ask that you contact us at least the day before to verify availability and lock in your frames.

What our Adventurers say about this experience:

"An experience to repeat!"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"After trying rafting and aqua trekking, we tested the electric mountain bikes with Buena Vista Rafting. Superb views throughout the entire ride (Lake Loop: Chaudanne dam, Demandolx, the abandoned village of Ville, Conche Chapel, Castillon dam, then back to Castellane). The equipment is top-notch, even for the kids (aged 11 and 12). An experience to repeat!"
Agnès (Google Review)

"Superb!!!"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"We rented electric bikes and did two superb loops. We received excellent route recommendations from the staff, who were incredibly warm, welcoming, and passionate!"
Nada (Google Review)

"Electric MTB Day"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"What can I say except THANK YOU for your warm welcome and kindness. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to blow our minds with trails and pathways that were each more beautiful than the last. Reliable, lightweight bikes—70 km in the mountains done with total ease. We will return with great pleasure! Visitors from Lyon."
Estelle and Florian (Google Review)

"Top!!!"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Arrived out of the blue at 11:00 AM for an electric bike rental, and was very pleasantly surprised. A great, smiling welcome and excellent advice on the itineraries. A 4-hour rental for 30 euros, they are top-notch, don't hesitate!"
Cédric (Google Review)

Book Your Self-Guided Exploration Today!

Ready to pedal with a smile? Contact the Buena Vista Rafting team today to reserve your electric mountain bikes for your next day of exploration around Castellane.

Phone : +33 (0)6 24 34 53 70

Email : contact@buenavistarafting.com

Short video of a mountain bike trip around Castellane

Some photos of our mountain bike rides around Lake Castillon

Our offers of electric bikes in Castellane:

We offer three brands of electrically assisted bikes, T BIRD in mountain bike version (MALIBU) or in VTC VERSION (GOLDEN GATE) and GITANE for teenagers/adults.
And NAKAMURA for children from 140 to 150cm. They are all designed and assembled in France.

Technique's informations about the NAKAMURA JUNIOR:

The U-SUMMIT EVO LTD electric bike is perfect for travelling on roads and paths, while remaining in the realm of "leisure rides".
It is not designed for a sport such as enduro, cross-country, free-ride or all-mountains, but it is very efficient, comfortable and practical on the circuits we offer. The geometry of its frame is adapted to all sizes between 140 and 150cm.

1. Aluminum frame
2. Front suspension
3. Battery capacity: 375Wh
4.  Range up to 55kms. 
5. It is equipped with a rear hub motor with 5 different levels of electric assistance.
6. Wheel Size: 26"
7. Number of speeds: 7
8. Its hydraulic disc brake system ensures optimal braking and its adjustable suspension fork allows real comfort for the rider.

T-BIRD Technical Information:
The MALIBU

Go on an adventure with our MALIBU ATV. Its XCM telescopic fork and 27.5-inch wheels allow for great ease of use. Its Vinka mid-mounted motor offers all the power you need to get your fill of sensations. The Malibu is an electrically assisted mountain bike ideal for off-the-beaten-path excursions.

1. Range: up to 120 km (optimal conditions); Rather, 80 in the mountains.
2. Battery: integrated phylion samsung li-ion 36V 14 AH 500 WH
3. Frame: MTB aluminum 27.5 THRU AXLE
4. Suntour XCM34 THRU AXLE telescopic fork
5. Vinka c20 36V/250W/80NM mid-motor
6. Offroad range
7. Year 2023
8. Shimano acera 9S shifter
9. Shimano HG200-9 11-34 Cassette
10. Stem "1""1/8"
11. Hydraulic disc brakes
12. Tires: 27.5+ x2.6
13. Wheels: 27.5+ Boost Disc
14. Weight: 25kg 
15. Display Vinka DS20

The GOLDEN GATE

The Golden Gate is ready to take on any challenge. Its MTB-inspired fork and 27.5-inch tires make it an ally for all roads. Its smooth and powerful motor and its 5-level assistance allow you to go even further. And what's more, it's really "too classy"! The use of the GOLDEN GATE is very versatile. Its MTB frame and large tires make it as comfortable on the road as it is on the trails. Its powerful motor and long range allow you to work in the city, in the countryside or in the mountains.

1. Range: up to 110 km (optimal conditions); Rather, 80 in the mountains.
2. Battery: Built-in samsung or li-ion 36V 15AH 540 WH
3. Frame: MTB 27.5 aluminum  
4. Suntour NVX30 Telescopic Fork Disc 27.5
5. Vinka c20 36V/250W/80NM mid-motor
6. Allroad Range
7. Year 2023
8. Shimano acera 9S shifter
9. Shimano HG200-9 11-34 Cassette
10. Tektro hydraulic disc brakes
11. Tires: 27.5+ x2.1
12. Wheels: 27.5" Disc
13. Weight: 25kg 
14. Display Vinka DS20
15. Luggage rack, Luggage rack and mudguards

GITANE technical information
The G-ONE REDWOOD 1

Go on an adventure with the G-One REDWOOD1.
Its ShimanoSTEPS E6100 motor and 603Wh battery will take you far with a maximum range of 220 km. A dropper post will help you on the most technical trails.

CHASSIS

1. Frame Aluminum6061-T6,27.5"/29, Boost
2. Suntour XCR-34-Coil-Boost Fork, 27.5"Plus. Hydraulic,120mm

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1. Shimano STEPS E6100 motor, 60nM
2. eGoing603Wh Battery
3. Range up to 220km
4. Show Shimano E5000, LCD, left

WHEELS

1. Mach1 CROSS-R wheels, aluminum27.5"584 x 23C
2. Front/ Rear hub shimano MT-400, Centerlockaluminum, 32H
3. TiresTEC Saxum, 27.5"x3.00" Tubeless Ready

TRANSMISSION

1. Shimano Alivio shifters, SL-M3100-R, 9-speed
2. Shimano Alivio rear derailleur, RD-M31000, SGS
3. Shimano crankset, SM-CRE61 38TFCE6100 170mm crank
4. Shimano Cassette, CS-HG400-9,11x38

COCKPIT

1. Saddle Royal vivo black
2. Kinsshox e20i dropper seatpost, D31,6mm,100 (39)125(43),150(47),170(50)
3. Handlebar Aluminium,720x20x31.8x6°
4. Aluminium rod 45x31.8x0°

BRAKING

1. Brakes shimano MT201, hydraulic, 180/160mm

The G-ONE REDWOOD 2

A 120mm travel hydraulic electric fork, a comfort position, quality equipment, 3 assistance modes to control the power will make the G-ONE REDWOOD a pleasant and easy to use mountain bike in 4x4 discovery mode.

CHASSIS

1. Aluminum Frame 6061-T6,27.5"/29, Boost
2. Suntour XCR-34-Coil-Boost Fork, 27.5"Plus. Hydraulic,120mm

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

1. e-Going motor, mid-motor, 65,55,45Nm depending on Dynamic, Standard, Comfort modes
2. eGoing 603Wh battery
3. Range up to 95/114 km
4. Display eGoing LCD Screen, Left

WHEELS

1. Mach1 CROSS-R wheels, aluminum27.5"584 x 23C
2. Front/ Rear hub shimano MT-400, Centerlockaluminum, 32H
3. Saxum TEC Tires, 27.5"x 3.00" Tubeless Ready

TRANSMISSION

1. Shimano Alivio shifters, SL-M3100-R, 9-speed
2. Shimano Alivio rear derailleur, RD-M31000, SGS
3. Crankset Aluminium, 38TFCE6100 170mm 
4. Shimano Cassette, CS-HG400-9,11 x 36

COCKPIT

1. Royal vivo saddle black
2. Seatpost Aluminium, 31.6 x 350mm
3. Handlebar Aluminium, 720 x 20x31.8x6°
4. Aluminium rod 45 x 31.8 x 0°

BRAKING

1. Brakes shimano MT201, hydraulic, 180/160mm

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Of course, various equipment is included in the rental of your bike:

• Helmet ;
• Repair kit ;
• Anti-theft ;
• Small bag at the front of the bike ;
• Route.
  + possible to add a baby carrier (max 20kgs)

To fully enjoy the ride, plan:

• 1l of water minimum per person ;( It is hot in summer in the Verdon area)
• A good picnic that you can enjoy wherever hunger takes you;
• Sunscreen and a swimsuit;
• A caméra.