The best gravel rides around Chimilin
4.8
(18)
55
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking around Chimilin offers a diverse landscape characterized by rolling agricultural lands, hilly forests, and picturesque lake shores within the Isère department. The terrain features a mix of paved roads and unpaved trails, including farm tracks, country lanes, and wooded sections. Elevations in the area range from 228m to 362m, providing varied gradients for riders. This region is ideal for gravel bikes, bridging the gap between road and mountain biking with routes that often combine road and trail sections.
…Last updated: July 1, 2026
4.6
(8)
23
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
riders
34.1km
02:26
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.3
(6)
14
riders
44.3km
02:36
150m
150m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
17.7km
01:10
70m
70m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
Tips from the Community
A famous praline brioche 😃
0
0
Located at the northern end of Lake Paladru, this wetland is fed by the Courbon stream. It is a true extension of the lake, rich in biodiversity and very pleasant.
0
0
Here, you enter a sensitive natural area for a 1-kilometer trail marked with four stations to discover the area's remarkable flora and fauna. A pleasant way to connect the two shores of Lake Paladru, between Paladru and Montferrat.
1
0
A beautiful bridge that crosses the Rhône and demarcates a departmental boundary. It even offers a view of a castle!
1
0
The small rest area created here, with its very unusual design, invites passersby not to roll by carelessly: Behind the backrest of the bench rises a remarkable piece of craftsmanship: on one side, a flower stem bearing an unfolded blossom; and from the other, a bee flies towards it. An original idea, and rightly documented here several times with photos.
2
0
Here we encounter three stone cubes stacked on top of each other, each smaller than the one below it. The gray cubes each have a white field in the center of their sides, with a cross carved into it, painted blue and standing out against the gray/white background. This construction forms the basis for the present small sacred monument: above it rises a radiant gold figure of the Madonna. From this prominent position, the Virgin Mary – venerated in France almost always under the title "Notre-Dame" ("Our Lady") – gazes far into the country, and has done so for more than 120 years. @Rainer N. has already explained the date and reason for its construction in his short post.
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Chimilin?
There are over 10 gravel bike trails around Chimilin, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes suitable for various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging excursions.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike routes near Chimilin?
The terrain around Chimilin is quite varied, featuring a mix of rolling agricultural lands, hilly forests, and picturesque lake shores. Routes often combine paved roads with unpaved sections like farm tracks, country lanes, and wooded paths, making them ideal for gravel bikes. You'll encounter varied gradients, with elevations ranging from 228m to 362m.
Are there options for beginners or families looking for easy gravel rides?
Yes, Chimilin offers several easier gravel routes. For instance, the Cordon Bridge – Lac de Barterand loop from Saint-Genix-Sur-Guiers is an easy 17.8 km path. Another accessible option is the Lac de Barterand – Beautiful view over the Rhône loop from Brégnier, which is 20.5 km and also rated easy. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and smoother surfaces.
Are there challenging gravel routes for experienced riders in the area?
Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Crusille Pass (573 m) – View of Lake Aiguebelette loop from Sainte-Marie-d'Alvey offer significant climbs over its 30.1 km distance. Another difficult option is the Lac de Paladru – Our Lady of the Vines loop from Montferrat, a 34.1 km path winding through agricultural lands with notable elevation changes.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or offer water views?
Yes, the region is known for its beautiful lakes. Many gravel routes incorporate views or sections along the shores of Lac d'Aiguebelette, Lac de Paladru, and Lac de Barterand. For example, the Crusille Pass (573 m) – View of Lake Aiguebelette loop from Sainte-Marie-d'Alvey offers stunning vistas of Lake Aiguebelette, while the Lac de Paladru – Our Lady of the Vines loop from Montferrat provides scenic views of Lac de Paladru.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Chimilin?
The diverse landscape of Chimilin makes it suitable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with autumn providing vibrant foliage. While winter can be ridden, checking local conditions for ice or snow on higher elevations or shaded forest paths is advisable. Summer is also popular, especially for routes near the lakes where you can combine cycling with water activities.
Are there any waterfalls or natural monuments to see along the trails?
Yes, the area boasts several natural attractions. You might encounter the impressive Glandieu Waterfall or the striking Rochefort Cliffs. Keep an eye out for these natural monuments which add to the scenic beauty of the region.
What attractions or points of interest can I visit near the gravel routes?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore cultural and historical sites. The Our Lady of the Vines is a notable religious building, and you might pass by the Restored Washhouse. For panoramic views, consider visiting the View of the Rhône from Belvédère du Site des Fils. Charming local villages and markets also offer a cultural dimension to your trip.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about gravel biking in Chimilin?
The gravel biking experience in Chimilin is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 20 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, which includes a satisfying mix of rolling agricultural lands, dense forests, and the picturesque shores of lakes like Aiguebelette and Paladru. The varied gradients and panoramic views of surrounding massifs are also frequently highlighted.
Are all the gravel bike routes in Chimilin circular?
Many of the popular gravel bike routes around Chimilin are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes routes like the Groslée Bridge – Lac de Barterand loop from Murs-et-Gélignieux, which covers 48.9 km through varied landscapes, and the shorter Cordon Bridge – Lac de Barterand loop from Saint-Genix-Sur-Guiers.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the gravel trails?
Yes, the region offers numerous scenic viewpoints. Many routes provide panoramic views of the surrounding massifs like Chartreuse, Belledonne, Mont du Chat, and even Mont Blanc on clear days. The Crusille Pass (573 m) – View of Lake Aiguebelette loop from Sainte-Marie-d'Alvey is specifically highlighted for its views of Lake Aiguebelette. Additionally, the View of the Rhône from Belvédère du Site des Fils is a dedicated viewpoint worth visiting.
Most popular attractions around Chimilin
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
