The best road cycling routes around Presles
4.5
(524)
10,898
riders
196
rides
Road cycling routes around Presles are characterized by the dramatic landscapes of the Vercors Massif, featuring roads carved into limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and expansive plateaus. The region is known for its challenging mountain passes and unique "balcony roads," such as the Route de Presles (D292), which offers significant elevation changes and panoramic views. Cyclists navigate through a network of roads that traverse varied terrain, from agricultural areas to high mountain environments.
Best road cycling routes around Presles
- The most popular road cycling route is Col d'Herbouilly – Bourne Gorge loop from Choranche, a 37.7 miles (60.7 km) trail that takes 3 hours 44 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through the Vercors Massif.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Col de Romeyère – Gorges du Nan loop from Pont-en-Royans, a difficult 48.0 miles (77.3 km) path. This route includes challenging climbs over mountain passes and descents into scenic gorges.
- Local road cyclists also love the La Sône Bridge – Gorges du Nan loop from Malleval-en-Vercors, a 110.4 miles (177.6 km) trail leading through the Vercors Massif and its gorges, often completed in about 8 hours 20 minutes.
- Road cycling around Presles is defined by its balcony roads, limestone cliffs, and challenging mountain passes. The network offers options for experienced road cyclists seeking demanding climbs and long-distance routes.
- The routes in Presles are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 300 reviews. More than 9,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Presles's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.7
(31)
675
riders
60.5km
03:43
1,660m
1,670m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(7)
150
riders
77.3km
05:05
2,400m
2,400m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
66
riders
176km
07:52
1,600m
1,600m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(3)
88
riders
45.1km
02:41
1,140m
1,140m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
29
riders
65.5km
03:35
1,350m
1,350m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. 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
Other adventures around Presles
Tips from the Community
The most spectacular route is the one via the Nan gorges, then via Malleval-en-Vercors. In a league of its own.
0
0
Beautiful place and still preserved from the crowds
0
0
Western entry point to the Bourne gorges, and to the magnificent road leading up to Presles.
0
0
a beautiful place along the Isere
0
0
A very beautiful route. Unfortunately, motorists think so too. Even campers squeeze through the narrow road—so be even more careful than usual!
0
0
An iconic summit for all cyclists in the region with its multiple access routes, all very difficult (more than 1200 m of elevation gain each time).
0
0
Perhaps the most beautiful road in the Vercors? In any case, one of the wildest with its tunnels and narrow passages.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Presles?
There are over 200 road cycling routes around Presles, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels within the dramatic landscapes of the Vercors Massif.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Presles?
Road cycling in Presles is characterized by the mountainous terrain of the Vercors Massif. You'll encounter roads carved into limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and expansive plateaus. The region is famous for its 'balcony roads' like the D292, which feature significant elevation changes, tunnels, and panoramic views.
Are there any easy road cycling routes for beginners in Presles?
While Presles is known for its challenging routes, there are approximately 16 easier road cycling routes available. These routes offer a less demanding experience while still allowing you to enjoy the region's natural beauty.
What are some of the most challenging road cycling routes in Presles?
Presles is a destination for experienced road cyclists seeking demanding climbs. Routes like the Col de Romeyère – Gorges du Nan loop from Pont-en-Royans, spanning over 77 km with significant elevation, offer a true test of endurance. The region's 'vertigo roads' and passes such as Col de Rousset and Col de la Machine are also popular for advanced riders.
What are the best times of year for road cycling in Presles?
The Vercors Massif generally offers excellent conditions for road cycling from spring through autumn. The south-facing Presles cliffs create a microclimate, making it enjoyable for cycling outside the coldest winter months. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for higher passes.
What scenic viewpoints can I discover along the road cycling routes?
The region is rich in breathtaking vistas. The Combe Laval Cirque offers dramatic views, and the Ranc Viewpoint and Revoulat Viewpoint provide expansive panoramas of the Vercors. The Route de Presles (D292) itself is famous for its spectacular views of the Vercors Massif as it winds through tunnels and cliff-side passages.
Are there any notable natural attractions or landmarks to see while cycling?
Absolutely. Beyond the stunning cycling routes, you can explore the Gorges du Nan, a beautiful natural monument. The Écouges Tunnel is another unique feature carved into the rock. The Presles Cliffs are also a major natural landmark, renowned for their scale and beauty.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Presles?
The road cycling routes in Presles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic scenery, the challenge of the mountain passes, and the unique experience of riding on the 'balcony roads' carved into the cliffs.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes around Presles?
Yes, Presles offers several long-distance options for those seeking extended rides. For example, the La Sône Bridge – Gorges du Nan loop from Malleval-en-Vercors is a challenging 177 km route that typically takes over 8 hours to complete, traversing the Vercors Massif and its gorges.
Can I find loop trails for road cycling in Presles?
Many of the road cycling routes in Presles are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Col d'Herbouilly – Bourne Gorge loop from Choranche and the Pont-en-Royans – Écouges Tunnel loop from Choranche, providing varied scenery and challenges.
What is the Route de Presles (D292) and why is it significant for road cyclists?
The Route de Presles (D292) is an iconic 'balcony road' carved directly into the mountainside, offering an exhilarating 7-kilometer cycling experience. It's significant for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Vercors Massif, its unique tunnels and passages hewn into the rock, and the challenging serpentine twists as it approaches the Presles cliffs. It's a must-ride for its dramatic scenery and engineering.
Most popular attractions around Presles
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
