The best cycling routes around Lavaldens

There are over 120 touring cycling routes in the Lavaldens area, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These routes are rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars.

The routes around Lavaldens are quite varied, with a significant number of challenging options. You'll find 25 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 69 difficult routes, many featuring mountain passes and significant elevation changes, characteristic of the French Alps.

The region is best enjoyed for touring cycling during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers more stable weather conditions and ensures mountain passes are clear of snow, allowing access to the full range of routes and breathtaking alpine scenery.

You can expect diverse terrain, primarily consisting of mountain roads with significant climbs and descents. There are also dedicated cycle paths, such as sections of the Voie Verte de l'Oisans along the Romanche river, which offer smoother asphalt and panoramic views. The landscape is defined by mountain passes, alpine lakes, and river valleys.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the challenging Col d'Ornon – Alpe d'Huez climb loop from Valbonnais and the scenic Col d'Ornon – Ecrins Reserve loop from Valbonnais are popular circular options.

Absolutely. The Lavaldens region is home to magnificent mountain lakes that can be incorporated into your cycling tours. Notable lakes include Lake Achard and Lake Lauvitel, which offer stunning views and opportunities for breaks. The route View of Lake Petichet – View of Lac de Petichet loop from Cholonge also features beautiful lake views.

The routes often pass through areas with stunning natural features. You can encounter impressive mountain peaks like La Croix de Chamrousse Summit and La Peyrouse, as well as picturesque mountain passes such as Pas de la Confession (Altitude 1542 m). The region's lakes, like Lake Achard and Lake Lauvitel, are also major attractions.

Yes, the region is renowned for its challenging mountain ascents. A highlight for many cyclists is the climb to Alpe d'Huez, which is part of the Col d'Ornon – Alpe d'Huez climb loop from Valbonnais. The Voie Verte de l'Oisans also offers a superb cycling experience with splendid panoramic views of the Alps.

While many routes are challenging, there are 25 easy routes available. For a more relaxed experience, sections of the Voie Verte de l'Oisans provide a pleasant cycling path on good asphalt with fewer side roads, ideal for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Col d'Ornon – Alpe d'Huez climb loop from Valbonnais features over 2,500 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Valbonnais – Col de La Morte (1370 m) loop from Valbonnais, which includes significant ascents through mountain terrain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the challenging mountain passes, and the breathtaking views of the French Alps. The variety of routes, from serene lake areas to demanding climbs, is also a major draw.