4.6
(113)
2,650
riders
20
rides
Road cycling routes around Dortan are situated within the Ain department, bordering the Jura massif, offering diverse terrain for cyclists. The region is characterized by undulating landscapes, including numerous lakes, valleys, and forested hills. Cyclists can expect significant elevation changes, with routes traversing both scenic lake perimeters and challenging mountain passes. This varied topography provides a range of road cycling experiences.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
25
riders
171km
08:49
2,920m
2,920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
61.0km
03:08
990m
990m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Sign up for free
17
riders
178km
08:59
2,870m
2,870m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(4)
25
riders
50.6km
02:31
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
34.1km
01:38
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. 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
The bridge separates two departments, the Jura and the Ain. "Iron bridge. For several centuries, the Ain was crossed at Thoirette using a ferry, called Christouphe's ferry, named after the commune where the passenger resided. From 1808 to 1811, the riparian communes contributed to building a bridge in place of this ferry. The project had been drawn up by Mr. Cordier, from Orgelet, an engineer then in charge of directing the works for the Simplon road. Various obstacles opposed the execution of this work. It was not until 1829 that an iron bridge was built, which collapsed in 1843. The Ain department has just replaced it with an iron bridge currently open to traffic". Statistique de la France - 1855 - Ministère de l'Agriculture by Imprimerie Impériale in Paris - p53.
0
0
Climbed it today (17-8-25); it's open, and there are signs along the road showing your progress. Traffic is quiet, and a beautiful green climb, especially further on.
0
0
When you come down from above, it suddenly appears: this private castle of Cornod. Sleeping Beauty would be jealous. It's a shame it's not open to the public.
0
0
Classified as 3rd category, the Col de la Joux was crossed during the 8th stage of the 2017 Tour De France!
0
0
Leisurely bike tour of the lake
0
0
There are a few shops right next to the bridge over the Ain and also in the town itself.
0
0
There are 17 road cycling routes around Dortan listed on komoot. These routes offer a range of challenges, with 4 moderate and 13 difficult options, catering to experienced cyclists looking for significant elevation changes.
Road cycling around Dortan offers diverse terrain, from the undulating landscapes of the Ain Valley to the challenging ascents of the Jura Mountains. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, scenic valley roads, and routes traversing forested hills and lake perimeters, providing both strenuous climbs and exhilarating descents.
Yes, many routes provide spectacular panoramic views. For instance, the View of Lac de Vouglans – Col de la Joux loop from Dortan offers expansive vistas of Lac de Vouglans. The region is known for viewpoints like Pic d'Oliferne, which can offer views of the Ain valley, Vouglans Dam, and even Mont Blanc on clear days.
Absolutely. The area is rich with stunning water bodies. Routes like the Vouglans Dam – View of Lac de Vouglans loop from Dortan feature impressive views of Lac de Vouglans and the Vouglans Dam. You can also find routes near Lac de Coiselet and the Rivières d'Ain and Oignin, showcasing the natural beauty of these waterways.
Yes, the region features beautiful waterfalls. The Moulin de Vulvoz Waterfall – Montée de la Saugette loop from Dortan passes by the stunning Moulin de Vulvoz Waterfall. Other notable waterfalls in the vicinity include the Valouse Waterfall and the Saut de l'Oignin.
The best time for road cycling in Dortan is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally more favorable, offering pleasant temperatures and less chance of snow or ice in the higher elevations of the Jura Mountains. This allows for optimal enjoyment of the scenic routes and challenging climbs.
While primarily focused on natural beauty, the region does offer historical points of interest. The ruins of Oliferne Castle, for example, provide a historical landmark with a 360° view. Charming villages throughout the Ain department also offer glimpses into local culture and architecture.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Dortan are designed as loops. Examples include the View of Lac de Vouglans – Lac de Lamoura loop from Dortan and the Montée de la Saugette loop from Dortan, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location.
The road cycling routes in Dortan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the challenging climbs, and the stunning natural beauty, especially the views over Lac de Vouglans and the Jura mountains.
Yes, Dortan and the surrounding villages typically offer public parking areas where you can leave your vehicle before starting your ride. It's advisable to check specific starting points for routes on komoot for detailed parking information, as many routes begin directly from towns or designated parking spots.
Dortan and the charming villages in the Ain department offer various local cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. These establishments cater to visitors and provide opportunities for cyclists to refuel, relax, and stay overnight, enhancing the overall cycling experience in the region.


Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.