The best road cycling routes around Collonges-Au-Mont-D'Or

There are nearly 30 road cycling routes around Collonges-Au-Mont-D'Or, catering to various fitness levels. You'll find options ranging from easy riverside paths to challenging climbs through the Monts d'Or.

The region offers diverse terrain, characterized by the hilly Monts d'Or Massif and the scenic Saône River. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, expansive green zones including forests and vineyards, and picturesque riverside paths. Most routes feature mostly paved surfaces.

Yes, there are several easy routes. For a gentle ride with views of Île Barbe and the Saône River, consider the Fontaines-sur-Saône Church – Robert Schuman Bridge loop from Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or. This 16.9 km route is mostly flat and takes about 45 minutes.

For a more challenging experience, the Monts d'Or region offers routes with substantial elevation gains. A difficult option is The Saône – Verdun Pass loop from Collonges Fontaines, a 72.2 km trail with over 900 meters of climbing. Another demanding route is the 117.2 km The Saône – Saint-Bonnet Pass loop from Collonges Fontaines, featuring over 1600 meters of ascent.

While cycling, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Saône valley and the Dombes plateau, especially from higher points in the Monts d'Or. Specific highlights include the Mont Thou, offering expansive vistas, and the View of Île Barbe along the Saône River. You might also pass through the Croix-Rousse Tunnel (Cycle path).

Yes, many of the routes in the Collonges-Au-Mont-D'Or area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the easy Fontaines-sur-Saône Church – Robert Schuman Bridge loop from Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or and the moderate Fontaines-sur-Saône Church – A travers la Dombes loop from Collonges Fontaines.

The road cycling routes in Collonges-Au-Mont-D'Or are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of over 4 stars. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from the challenging Monts d'Or climbs to the scenic riverside paths along the Saône, and the overall natural beauty of the region.

Yes, the famous 'La Voie Bleue' cycle route runs alongside the Saône River, offering a well-maintained path for longer cycling tours. You can access this route and follow the right bank of the Saône towards Lyon, enjoying a gentler cycling experience. More information can be found on France Vélo Tourisme.

The region around Collonges-Au-Mont-D'Or and Lyon is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but riverside routes offer cooler options. Winter cycling is possible, but check weather conditions for potential cold or wet days.

Yes, some routes will bring you close to water features. For example, a 52.5 km loop around Blue Waters Lake and Jonage Canal is mentioned as a moderate option in the wider region. You can also find highlights like Blue Waters Lake and the Mallard Promenade — Blue Waters Lake nearby.

While the focus is on natural landscapes, some routes may pass through charming villages or near historical sites. For instance, the difficult Charnay Village and Castle – Oingt loop from Collonges Fontaines takes you through areas with cultural significance, including the village of Charnay and its castle.

Absolutely. The region has 15 moderate routes. A popular choice is the Fontaines-sur-Saône Church – A travers la Dombes loop from Collonges Fontaines. This 55.8 km path leads through varied terrain, including green zones and access to the Saône River banks, with a manageable elevation gain of over 300 meters.