The best MTB trails around Compains

There are around 90 mountain bike trails available in the Compains area, catering to various skill levels. This includes 9 easy routes, 68 moderate routes, and 13 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to experienced riders.

The terrain around Compains is highly varied due to its location within the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park. You can expect volcanic landscapes with black and red soils, basaltic rocks, expansive plateaus like the Cézallier with smooth, hilly reliefs, as well as deep forests and secret valleys. Trails range from varied singletrack to forest tracks.

Yes, the region offers trails suitable for families. While specific family-designated routes aren't detailed, the overall network includes 9 easy routes with gentle gradients, perfect for a relaxed outing. These trails allow families to enjoy the scenic volcanic landscapes and plateaus at a comfortable pace.

Many trails in the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Nature Park are dog-friendly, though it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected areas or near grazing livestock. The varied terrain, including forests and open plateaus, offers plenty of opportunities for you and your canine companion to enjoy the ride together.

Yes, there are several excellent circular routes. A popular moderate option is the Lake Estivadoux – Lake Montcineyre loop from Valbeleix, which is 25.3 km long. For a more challenging ride, consider the difficult La Godivelle – Lake Montcineyre loop from Compains, covering 50.4 km.

The region is rich in scenic beauty. You can enjoy panoramas of dormant volcanoes, thermal springs, and historical sites. Notable viewpoints and natural features include the iconic Puy de Sancy, the volcanic Puy des Crebasses, and the Puy de Cliergue and Hor rock ridge. The Cézallier plateau also offers vast, open landscapes with lakes like Montcineyre and Estivadoux.

Yes, you can find waterfalls in the area. The Barthe Waterfall – Lake Chauvet loop from Super Besse is a moderate 22.1 km route that features the Barthe Waterfall, offering a refreshing stop amidst varied terrain through the park.

The best time for mountain biking in the Cézallier region, including Compains, is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the trails are typically dry. The cool, damp climate of the basaltic plateau ensures lush landscapes, but it's always wise to check local weather conditions before heading out.

The Compains area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 200 reviews. Reviewers often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the diverse range of trails suitable for all levels, and the stunning panoramas of dormant volcanoes and natural features. The comprehensive mountain biking experience and connection with nature are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Grande Traversée du Massif Central (GTMC) is an exceptional long-distance mountain bike route that crosses the Puy-de-Dôme department, offering an immersive experience through forest tracks, volcanic trails, and panoramic views. A challenging section can be experienced on the difficult Montée Paillasseyre – GTMC — Allanche loop from Le Fraud, which is 63.4 km long.

While specific parking locations for every trail are not detailed, many mountain bike trails in the Auvergne region are easily accessible from towns and villages. It's common to find designated parking areas near trailheads or in the centers of villages like Compains, Valbeleix, or Super Besse, which serve as starting points for many routes.

For those seeking dedicated downhill experiences, destinations like Super Besse and Le Lioran ski resorts offer purpose-built trails with facilities such as rental shops and bike wash stations. Super Besse's 'Super MTB park' is accessible to all levels, with trails reached by cable car and equipped with berms, jumps, and bridges. Le Mont-Dore also offers downhill opportunities.