The best road cycling routes around Aubinges

Road cycling around Aubinges is characterized by its unique volcanic landscapes and varied terrain. You'll encounter contrasting reliefs, including the Coiron hills and the Frayol river valley, offering a mix of ascents and descents. The routes often pass through areas with distinctive volcanic stone architecture, providing scenic views of the geological formations.

There are over 50 road cycling routes available around Aubinges. This includes a variety of options, with 18 easy routes, 33 moderate routes, and a few challenging routes for experienced cyclists.

Yes, Aubinges offers several easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. There are 18 easy routes available, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without excessive difficulty. For a gentler experience, consider exploring sections of the Dolce Via, which is known for its safe, easy trails through protected countryside.

Many routes offer views of the distinctive volcanic landscapes. You can explore charming villages like Aubignas itself, with its basalt architecture, or the medieval village of Rochemaure. The region is also close to the Gorges de l'Ardèche, where a dedicated road offers spectacular views from 11 managed look-out spots. Along some routes, you might pass by La Borne, potters' village, or enjoy scenic spots like Rocky ascent to Quantilly.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Aubinges offers a few difficult road cycling routes. The varied topography, including sections with steep gradients, particularly along the Gorges de l'Ardèche road, provides opportunities for more demanding rides. The region's connection to the 'On the Roads of the Ardéchoise' network also implies routes designed for serious cycling.

The region around Aubignas is generally pleasant for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn typically offer the most comfortable temperatures for road cycling, avoiding the peak heat of summer while still providing good weather. These seasons also showcase the natural beauty of the volcanic landscapes and forests.

Yes, Aubinges is well-connected to significant cycling networks. The ViaRhôna, a major long-distance route connecting Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean, passes nearby, featuring adventurous elements like the Rochemaure Himalayan suspension bridge. Additionally, the region is part of the 'On the Roads of the Ardéchoise' network, which includes 13 signposted routes totaling 620 km across the Ardèche.

The road cycling routes in Aubinges are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 9 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the scenic volcanic landscapes, and the opportunities to explore charming villages and natural features.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Aubinges are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Saint-Germain Collegiate Church – Gibjoncs Landscape Park loop from Les Aix-d'Angillon or the La Borne, potters' village – Morogues church loop from Aubinges, which offer convenient circular journeys.

While road cycling can be enjoyed by families, for a particularly family-friendly experience, consider the Dolce Via. Voted the most beautiful easy cycle trail in Europe, it offers 90 km of safe, protected trails, making it ideal for families with children or those preferring a very gentle ride away from traffic.

Parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Aubignas itself or nearby Les Aix-d'Angillon. Look for designated parking areas within these communities to begin your ride.

Beyond road cycling, the Aubinges region offers a wealth of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, including the 'La Carrière de Basalte' trail (more info here), which leads to an old basalt quarry. The Gorges de l'Ardèche are popular for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and swimming. Horse riding is also an option, and you can visit historical sites like the medieval village of Rochemaure or the Saint Vincent Cathedral in Viviers.