The best road cycling routes around Les Thuiles

There are over 40 road cycling routes around Les Thuiles, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find 6 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 24 difficult routes to explore.

Road cycling in Les Thuiles is characterized by its dramatic alpine landscapes and challenging climbs. The region offers significant elevation gains, with routes often featuring high mountain passes like the iconic Cime de la Bonette, which boasts the highest paved road in France. You can expect varied terrain, from forested areas in the Ubaye Valley to more exposed mountainous sections, catering to cyclists seeking demanding rides.

The road cycling routes around Les Thuiles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 14,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs and breathtaking alpine scenery.

Given its high-altitude location in the French Alps, the best time for road cycling in Les Thuiles is typically from late spring through early autumn (roughly June to September). During these months, mountain passes are generally clear of snow, and the weather is more favorable for long rides. Always check local weather and road conditions before heading out, especially for higher passes.

Many routes offer stunning views of the alpine landscape. For example, the View of the Gorges de la Blanche – Blanche Gorge loop from Méolans-Revel provides panoramic vistas of the Gorges de la Blanche. You might also encounter highlights such as Barcelonnette, a charming settlement, or the serene Lake Sainte-Marguerite. The region is also known for its mountain passes, including the famous Cime de la Bonette.

Yes, you can find routes that provide spectacular views of Lake Serre-Ponçon. The Great view of Lake Serre-Ponçon – Selonnet Village loop from Camping de Rioclar is a notable example, leading through alpine landscapes with extensive views of the lake.

Absolutely. Les Thuiles is a prime destination for experienced road cyclists seeking challenging climbs. The region is close to the Cime de la Bonette, one of the highest paved roads in Europe. Routes like the View of the Gorges de la Blanche – Blanche Gorge loop from Méolans-Revel and the Col du Fanget (1,459 m) – Col Saint Jean (1332 m) loop from Les Thuiles feature significant elevation gains, with the latter climbing over 1,700 meters.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Les Thuiles are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Barcelonnette – Barcelonnette loop from Les Thuiles and the L'Ubaye – Lake Lauzet-Ubaye loop from Méolans-Revel.

While the region is known for its challenging climbs, there are also easier road cycling options available. Out of the 43 routes, 6 are classified as easy, offering less demanding terrain and elevation for those new to road cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride.

Beyond the natural beauty, the broader region around Les Thuiles can feature historical elements. While specific sites directly on the routes are not detailed, the area is part of the French Alps, which has a rich history, including various forts that can be explored on multi-day trips.

One of the longest routes is the Col du Fanget (1,459 m) – Col Saint Jean (1332 m) loop from Les Thuiles, which spans over 100 kilometers (65 miles) and involves significant climbing, making it a substantial challenge for a full day's ride.