The best road cycling routes around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon
4.5
(207)
3,896
riders
241
rides
Road cycling around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon, situated in the Ain department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, offers diverse terrain for cyclists. The area features varied landscapes, from the gentle river valleys of the Rhône and Saône to more challenging, hilly forested sections. Proximity to the medieval town of Pérouges and the broader Ain department provides a range of scenic backdrops for road cycling routes. The region's topography includes both flatter sections and areas with significant elevation gains.
Best road cycling routes around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon
…Last updated: July 2, 2026
57
riders
47.2km
01:54
210m
210m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
32
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
15
riders
88.2km
04:30
1,480m
1,480m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
54.9km
02:42
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Very beautiful village with character, entirely made of stone; from the village, you can see the Madonna of the Larina Archaeological site.
0
0
It was erected in the 15th century. Originally, it was just a modest oratory (half the size of the current chapel). At that time, Philip of Savoy fell from his horse near the site where the chapel was later built. His wife, Margaret of Bourbon, fearing for his life, vowed to build an oratory and a church in Brou if he survived. He recovered, but sadly, his wife died in 1483. It was therefore his second wife, Claudine de Brosse, also known as Claudine de Bretagne Penthièvre, who had the chapel built on the spot where her husband had his accident. Initially, it was a small oratory: a ribbed vault without any openings. It was Margaret of Austria, daughter-in-law of Margaret of Savoy, who fulfilled the second vow. In 1867, the chapel was enlarged and looted. A statue of the mother and child, which had been placed in a niche on the facade, was replaced by a painting. https://www.saintejulie.fr/chapelle-notre-dame-de-lorette/
0
0
cycle path very busy in good weather
0
0
The site features the remains of fortifications dating from the 11th to the 19th centuries. The former castle of the Lords of Loyes (ruins of the Château de la Pie), the modern castle, the formal garden, and the kitchen garden are all visible. In the 18th century, major work was carried out on the Château de Loyes, but a fire destroyed the tops of the towers and the roof. In 1840, renovations were undertaken, including the construction of outbuildings, a woodshed/cellar, and stables. At the end of the 19th century, a church was built, dividing the castle mound in two. The castle entrance was modified at the end of the 19th century, along with the neo-Gothic wall. The garden, originally laid out in the early 18th century, was modernized by Luizet and Barret at the end of the 19th century; a landscaped garden was added to the formal garden. The castle mound is accessible via a footpath. Inside, a 17th-century staircase with ramps is adorned with the coats of arms of its various owners, painted in the 19th century. https://pop.culture.gouv.fr/notice/merimee/PA01000030
0
0
The small town to which the grotto belongs.
0
0
A short climb that allows you to switch between the two villages, on one side the Albarine Green Way, on the other the start of the climb towards the Col de Porte!
1
0
Very pretty medieval village, reward after a small hill coming from the Green Way of Albaria
0
0
Great road in a beautiful area. Lots of hikers and joggers.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon?
There are over 250 road cycling routes in the Villieu-Loyes-Mollon area, catering to various skill levels. This includes 73 easy routes, 145 moderate routes, and 32 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in Villieu-Loyes-Mollon?
The terrain around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon is quite diverse. You'll find gentle river valleys along the Rhône and Saône, as well as more challenging, hilly forested sections with significant elevation gains. The broader Ain department offers everything from the demanding slopes of the Grand Colombier to tranquil routes like the ViaRhôna.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the area offers 73 easy road cycling routes, many of which are suitable for beginners or families looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes often feature flatter sections and explore the local countryside.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
Many routes pass by historical and natural points of interest. You can cycle past the charming Medieval town of Pérouges, which is just 4 kilometers from Villieu-Loyes-Mollon. Other routes might take you past the Fortifications, or the Croix de Bramafan. The region also features historical sites like the 18th-century Loyes Castle and various neo-Gothic churches.
Are there challenging routes for experienced road cyclists?
Absolutely. The Villieu-Loyes-Mollon area and the wider Ain department offer 32 difficult routes with notable elevation changes. Some routes, like those exploring the Dombes region, can be quite long and demanding, providing a good challenge for experienced riders. The Ain department is known for its 'calf-burning slopes' in areas like the Grand Colombier.
Are there circular road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the routes around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Cingle Castle – Hières-sur-Amby village loop from Chazey-sur-Ain and the Château de Chazey-sur-Ain loop from Chazey-sur-Ain.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Villieu-Loyes-Mollon?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 190 reviews. Cyclists often praise the mix of medieval towns, river valleys, and varied terrain, appreciating the options for different ability levels and the scenic backdrops.
Are there any routes that explore the Dombes region?
Yes, the Dombes region, known for its ponds and abbeys, can be explored by road bike. A notable route is the Abbaye Notre-Dame des Dombes – The Dombes and Its François loop from Chazey-sur-Ain, which is a moderate 70.9 km path.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in this region?
While specific weather patterns vary, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region generally offers pleasant cycling conditions from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn provides cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer can be warm, especially in the river valleys, but still enjoyable.
Are there routes that pass by castles or historical sites?
Many routes incorporate historical elements. For instance, the Cingle Castle – Hières-sur-Amby village loop from Chazey-sur-Ain passes by historical castles and villages. Another route, the Château de Chazey-sur-Ain loop from Chazey-sur-Ain, leads past the Château de Chazey-sur-Ain.
Where can I find more information about cycling in the Ain department?
For broader information on cycling across the Ain department, which boasts 2,222 km of cycling routes, you can visit the official tourism website: ain-tourisme.com.
Most popular routes around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon
Most popular attractions around Villieu-Loyes-Mollon
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
