Until few years ago moto events were mostly cafe racer/vintage themes with great events such as the Hanbuild Austin, the 1 Moto show Portland, Wheels and Waves Biarritz... From custom builds to OEM the scene was pouring with resurrected machines from old barns to state of the art factory productions. Those bikes had a simple mission, ride and have fun on a minimalist aesthetic machine.

Today cafe racer have evolved. Pushing since the last 4 years, the Trail/Adv/Dual sport machines have been knocking at the door. Vintage dual sport have been dusted off, fitted with new parts and tires, OEM have been cranking out complete line up of highly capable motorcycles for all budget and skills.

From there the obvious is happening with adventure events popping all around. The Alpe Aventure Moto Festival is one of them. Started 8 years ago in a small gathering while cafe racers were still "racing" full on, it has become a major event. Located in the spectacular setting of Barcelonette, a small French town located in the Alpe de Haute Provence. It is a 3 days event (early September) where riders from all over Europe, manufacturers of bikes, gear and so on are gathering. People are riding there not just displaying. The scenery is exceptional with hundreds of km of riding going over mountain passes such as Col de La Bonette 2715m, Col de Vars 2108m, Col de la Cayolle 2326m...Decked out bikes are going up and down those passes, some with exploring in mind, others chasing the fastest time.

Then after a all day ride, it was a welcoming atmosphere waiting for you in town. Strolling the village in the village to check out all the latest in the adventure moto world and meet your "heroes". OEM brands were offering test rides, some had complete off road set up fields nearby.

Since you are in France, food in Barcelonette is a non issue with excellent restaurants and bars. Lodging varied from mountain chalets to good campgrounds with more traditional hotels.

Despite the last day being poured on by incessant rain, it was a successful well organized event. The surroundings make this place so special that the question for coming back next year isn't a question anymore.