The best cycling routes around Étang des Aulnes

The touring cycling routes around Étang des Aulnes primarily traverse the flat Plaine de la Crau, offering a mix of fields, forests, marshes, and extensive olive groves. While generally flat, some routes to the north transition into gentle hills, and others feature significant climbs, such as the difficult Figuière Pass – View of Les Baux-de-Provence loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau, which includes over 875 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, Étang des Aulnes offers several easy touring cycling routes. Out of the 31 available routes, 8 are classified as easy. While specific easy routes aren't detailed in the top recommendations, you can find options that allow for a more leisurely pace, often circling the pond itself or exploring the flatter sections of the Plaine de la Crau.

The region offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. You can explore historical sites like the Barbegal Roman Aqueducts on the Le Paradou Village Center – Barbegal Roman Aqueducts loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau. Another route, the Van Gogh Bridge – Saint-Trophime Cathedral loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau, takes you past significant cultural landmarks. The area is also known for its unique 'coussouls' or Crau steppe habitat to the south, and the Étang des Aulnes itself is a crucial refuge for migratory birds.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the Étang des Aulnes area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Le Paradou Village Center – Barbegal Roman Aqueducts loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau and the Camargue Salt Flats – Bataiyolles Pond loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau. These circular routes provide convenient options for exploring the diverse landscapes.

The region's climate makes it suitable for cycling for much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures for touring cycling, avoiding the intense heat of summer. These seasons also provide opportunities for birdwatching, especially along the wilder banks of the Étang des Aulnes, which is a crucial refuge for migratory birds.

While specific family-friendly touring cycling routes are not highlighted in the top recommendations, the presence of 8 easy routes suggests there are options suitable for families. The general flat terrain of the Plaine de la Crau and the accessible 6.7 km walk around the pond (which traverses fields, forests, marshes, and olive groves with picnic tables) indicate that less challenging routes can be found for a family outing.

The touring cycling routes in Étang des Aulnes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from flat plains to gentle hills, and the opportunities to explore local villages, historical sites, and unique natural landscapes like the Camargue salt flats.

Yes, the Étang des Aulnes area is designed to welcome the public, and you'll find convenient picnic tables, especially along the 6.7 km walk around the pond. Many routes pass through or near villages where you can find amenities. The overall property also features numerous picnic areas for visitors to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

The guide primarily focuses on routes starting from Saint-Martin-de-Crau. While specific public transport links to the trailheads are not detailed, Saint-Martin-de-Crau is a town that may have public transport connections. For detailed information on reaching the starting points by public transport, it is advisable to check local transport schedules for the Saint-Martin-de-Crau area.

While specific parking locations for each route are not listed, the region is generally accessible. Given that many routes start from Saint-Martin-de-Crau, it is reasonable to expect parking facilities within or near the town center or at common starting points for outdoor activities. The entire property of Étang des Aulnes is designed to welcome the public, suggesting visitor amenities like parking are available.

Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes available. The Camargue Salt Flats – Bataiyolles Pond loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau is a difficult 118.6 km path offering extensive views. Another demanding option is the Figuière Pass – View of Les Baux-de-Provence loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau, which covers 83 km and includes significant elevation changes.

Étang des Aulnes is known for its exceptional biodiversity, particularly as a crucial refuge for migratory birds along its wilder, undeveloped banks. The ecosystem of the pond is managed to maintain healthy reed beds, supporting remarkable fauna. Beyond the immediate pond, the landscape includes marshes and the unique 'coussouls' or Crau steppe habitat, which are home to diverse wildlife.