The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Ponts-de-Martel

The region offers a diverse mix of terrain ideal for gravel biking. You'll encounter expansive peat bogs, dense forests like the Joux forest, and the characteristic Jura plateau with its rolling meadows and dolines. While many routes are traffic-free, expect a combination of well-maintained gravel paths, forest tracks, and some paved sections connecting these natural areas.

While many of the 22 available routes are rated as 'difficult' due to elevation or distance, the region's gentle relief in valleys like La Sagne and Les Ponts does offer sections suitable for less experienced riders. Look for routes that explore the peat bogs or follow the Bied stream for a more relaxed experience. Always check the route details on komoot for specific difficulty ratings and elevation profiles.

Les Ponts-de-Martel is rich in natural beauty. You can ride towards the dramatic Stone Bridge in the Areuse Gorge or the Saut de Brot stone bridge, both offering stunning views. Further afield, the Saut du Doubs Waterfall provides a magnificent spectacle. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that offer glimpses of summits like Soliat Summit (1,465 m) or Tête de Ran Summit.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Les Ponts-de-Martel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the challenging Areuse River – Creux du Van loop from Couvet offers a substantial circular ride through diverse landscapes. Another option is the La Brévine Weather Station – Lac des Taillères loop from La Brévine.

Spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking. During these seasons, the extensive network of paths through forests and across the plateau is most accessible. While the region is known for its tranquility, visiting outside of peak holiday periods will further ensure a truly traffic-free experience. Winter can be beautiful but may require specific equipment for snow and ice, as the area is popular for cross-country skiing.

Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, the region offers several demanding routes. The Areuse River – Creux du Van loop from Môtiers is a particularly long and challenging option, covering over 90 km with significant elevation gain. Many of the 18 difficult routes listed in the guide will provide a substantial workout and explore the more remote parts of the Jura landscape.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars. Reviewers often praise the profound sense of tranquility, the unique landscape of the peat bogs, and the extensive network of well-maintained, car-free paths that allow for immersive rides through nature. The diverse scenery, from dense forests to open plateaus, is also frequently highlighted.

While many routes are rated as 'difficult,' the flat sections through the peat bogs and along the Bied stream can be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with longer distances. The educational peat route, for instance, offers a gentle introduction to the unique ecosystem. Always check the distance and elevation profile of a specific route on komoot to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

The routes vary significantly in length to cater to different preferences. You can find shorter loops, such as the Typical Jura countryside – Bahnhofplatz La Chaux-de-Fonds loop from Le Crêt-du-Locle at around 24 km, perfect for a half-day ride. For longer adventures, routes like the Auberge du Grand-Sommartel – La Brévine Weather Station loop from La Brévine extend to nearly 40 km, while the most challenging can exceed 90 km.

Yes, the peat bogs (Tourbières) are a defining feature of the area, offering a unique, almost Siberian landscape. While no specific komoot route is named after them in this guide, many trails traverse or offer views of these ancient wetlands, such as 'Le Marais-Rouge.' Look for routes that explore the central plateau between Les Ponts-de-Martel and La Brévine to experience this distinctive environment.

Les Ponts-de-Martel is connected by public transport, making it possible to access the region without a car. The local train line (Transports Publics Neuchâtelois) serves the area, and buses also operate. Many routes can be started directly from the village or other accessible points along the network. Always check public transport schedules and bike carriage policies in advance.