The best gravel rides around Saint-Bernard

The Saint-Bernard region offers a wide selection of gravel routes, with over 20 trails currently mapped on komoot. These routes provide countless possibilities for exploration across diverse alpine terrain.

You can expect a highly varied terrain, ranging from quiet back roads through charming villages to more challenging mountain paths, forest roads, and ancient military roads. The region's landscape transitions from deep valleys to towering peaks, including the Great St. Bernard Pass, offering diverse surfaces and elevation changes.

While many routes in Saint-Bernard involve significant elevation gain and can be challenging, there are moderate options available. For example, the Gevrey-Chambertin – Burgundy Canal loop from Gevrey-Chambertin is a moderate 31.9-mile path that winds through scenic countryside and along waterways, offering a less strenuous experience.

For those seeking a challenge, Saint-Bernard offers several difficult routes. The Viewpoint – Chemin du Tacot loop from Gevrey-Chambertin is a difficult 29.8-mile trail with challenging climbs. Another demanding option is the Rente de Chamerey – Clos de Vougeot Castle loop from Gevrey-Chambertin, a 45.1-mile trail leading through vineyards and historical areas, often taking around 6 hours to complete.

The region is rich in both natural beauty and historical significance. You can encounter stunning alpine lakes, such as the one at the summit of the Great St. Bernard Pass, and explore suggestive valleys like Val Ferret. Historically, you might pass by sites like the Clos de Vougeot Castle or the historic Great St. Bernard Hospice, which has welcomed travelers for centuries. Other notable points include Romanée Conti and the Place centrale de Nuits-Saint-Georges.

The Saint-Bernard area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 24 reviews. Riders frequently praise the diverse terrain, from quiet back roads to challenging mountain paths, and the stunning alpine scenery, including the iconic Great St. Bernard Pass.

Yes, several routes offer a blend of natural beauty and historical charm. The Rente de Chamerey – Clos de Vougeot Castle loop from Gevrey-Chambertin, for instance, leads you through picturesque vineyards and past significant historical sites like the Clos de Vougeot Castle.

Many routes in the Saint-Bernard region wind through charming villages on quiet, nearly car-free back roads, especially as you ascend towards higher elevations. Even sections of main roads often have tunnels that divert traffic, leaving the upper slopes in near solitude for cyclists, allowing for a peaceful and immersive experience.

The Great St. Bernard Pass is a central feature of the region, reaching an elevation of 2,469 meters (8,100 feet). Many gravel routes incorporate sections of this historic pass, offering breathtaking views and a challenging climb to its summit.

Yes, the region encompasses suggestive valleys that are ideal for exploration. The Val Ferret and Valpelline are notable examples, with Valpelline being known for its wild mountain landscapes, numerous chapels, and the artificial lake of Place Moulin, reflecting surrounding peaks. Routes often traverse these valleys, providing scenic views and diverse riding experiences.

The Great St. Bernard Pass is one of the most ancient passes in the Western Alps, with a history dating back to the Bronze Age and Roman times. It was historically used by armies, traders, and pilgrims. Cycling this pass allows you to trace these ancient routes and experience the same challenging yet rewarding journey as countless travelers before you. The famous Great St. Bernard Hospice, founded in 1049, still welcomes travelers today, adding a unique historical dimension to your ride.