The best gravel rides around Mont-Sur-Monnet

There are over 35 gravel bike routes in the Mont-sur-Monnet area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate paths to more challenging routes.

The region offers diverse and rugged natural landscapes, characterized by a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. You can expect challenging climbs, scenic trails, extensive forest paths, and unique geological formations like lapiaz and lazines across valleys, mountains, and plateaus.

Yes, while many routes offer a challenge, there are options suitable for families. For example, the route View of Lac de Chalain – Doucier Beach loop from Marigny is a moderate 15.1 km trail that offers beautiful views and is less demanding than some of the longer, more difficult options.

Absolutely. Many of the gravel routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the View of Lac de Narlay – Shore of Lac de Narlay loop from Fontenu, which is a challenging 41.7 km circular trail.

The Mont-sur-Monnet area is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter numerous lakes such as Lac de Narlay and Lac de Chalain, as well as impressive waterfalls. Highlights include The Hérisson Waterfalls, Fan Waterfall, and Saut Girard Waterfall. Many routes also pass through extensive forests and offer scenic viewpoints.

Beyond the natural landscapes, the region has historical charm. You can find vestiges of the 11th-century Balerne Abbey and remnants of a medieval castle. The 18th-century Château de l'Haÿ (Château de Monnet) also adds to the area's historical appeal.

The Jura Mountains, including Mont-sur-Monnet, are generally excellent for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter sports are popular, gravel biking is best enjoyed when trails are free of snow and ice.

The routes in Mont-sur-Monnet are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 30 reviews. Over 190 gravel bikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the diverse landscapes and the immersive experience of the Jura Mountains.

The Jura Mountains have developed a variant of the iconic Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) specifically for gravel bikes. This extensive trail navigates through valleys, mountains, plateaus, lakes, and forests, providing an immersive experience of the region's natural beauty, and sections of it can be incorporated into local rides.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are a few easier options. Out of 36 routes, 2 are classified as easy, and 13 as moderate, providing good starting points for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. The Pont-du-Navoy – Champagnole loop from Mont-sur-Monnet is a moderate 35.5 km trail that offers a good balance.

Yes, the region is dotted with numerous lakes, and many gravel routes offer stunning views or pass directly by them. For instance, the PLM cycle path – View of Lac de Chalain loop from Marigny includes sections with views of Lac de Chalain, and the Doucier Beach – View of Lake Chalain loop from Doucier also features the lake.