The best traffic-free bike rides around Lake Verney
4.8
(41)
2,651
riders
9
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Verney are characterized by a landscape of rolling hills, dense forests, and the expansive reservoir. The region features varied terrain, from relatively flat lakeside paths to more challenging climbs into the surrounding hills. It is set within a natural environment that includes moorland and woodlands, offering diverse cycling experiences.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Verney
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Colle San Carlo (1971 m) loop…
Last updated: July 12, 2026
5.0
(6)
74
riders
21.6km
01:53
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
18.0km
02:03
720m
720m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
83
riders
18.0km
02:01
660m
660m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
46
riders
22.3km
02:46
940m
940m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
33
riders
27.5km
03:26
1,170m
1,170m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
From Morgex: Challenging and relentless climb, from a good military road it ascends with very regular gradients that allow, once you find your rhythm, to go steadily to the top without too much trouble. From Pré-Saint-Didier: Decidedly easy climb to La Thuile (gradients around 4-5%), from there the climb becomes challenging with severe gradients (although not like those of the more famous Morgex side). Be careful, in summer, of traffic (on the descent, use great caution on both sides) and of the south-facing exposure which makes it very hot in the afternoon.
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A beautiful lookout point, a balcony overlooking Mount Blanc. It can be reached from the road that starts next to the restaurant on San Carlo Hill for 1.5 km. The road is unpaved, but with a little care, it's also passable on a racing bike.
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Starting point for the hike, big advantage on the way back is a bar restaurant, waiting for you for a cold drink or an ice cream. (They don't take credit cards)
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The Forte della Ridotta della Traversette is located at 2400 m in a dominant position on the French side of the Colle del Piccolo San Bernardo. A fort already existed in the seventeenth century when Savoy and Valle d'Aosta were united in the possessions of the House of Savoy. The transfer of the royal seat from Chambéry to Turin transformed what is now Haute-Savoie into a province of secondary importance and at the end of the century fortifications began to be built on the border of the territories of the Savoy, separating regions that until then had shared the same traditions, culture, religion and language. The current fort was built in 1891 on the ruins of the old fort destroyed during the French Revolution, taking advantage of its strategic position for the military surveillance of the national borders. Initially it was occupied only in the summer period and later throughout the year to train the troops in the difficult mountain conditions. In the 1930s, the fort was equipped with shooting ranges, radio equipment, and equipment for the troops and their supplies in response to the great defensive project, the Alpine Wall, desired by Mussolini. On June 10, 1940, Italy declared war on France and began a massive mobilization on the borders. On June 21, an air and ground attack kept the brave soldiers stationed at the fort, led by Lieutenant Desserteaux, busy for 4 days. The fort was occupied by Italian troops, then German ones, and liberated after fierce fighting in April 1945. Today, in ruins, it is located directly on the slopes of the Piccolo San Bernardo International ski area that connects the resorts of La Thuile in the Aosta Valley and La Rosière in Haute-Savoie.
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From this viewpoint the view is nothing short of majestic. A break is a must!
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Colle San Carlo is an Alpine pass, reachable via a long climb on asphalt from Morgex, which has become famous for road cycling. At the top there is a hotel restaurant that can offer you refreshment. Numerous paths start from here aimed at exploring the valley.
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The Bosco Express chairlift takes you from La Thuile located at 1,441 meters to Les Suches (2,088 metres) and is open in both summer and winter.
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In the Orgères area there is an archaeological site of great importance. In this place, a high-altitude settlement has been brought to light whose masonry structures date back to a period between the 1st and 3rd centuries AD. Orgères was a permanent and non-seasonal settlement: people lived there all year round, cattle and sheep and goats were raised, cheese was made, wool and fabrics were processed and metal was forged.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Lake Vyrnwy?
Komoot features a selection of touring cycling routes around Lake Vyrnwy designed to minimize traffic, offering a peaceful experience. Currently, there are 9 such routes available on komoot for this region, ranging in difficulty.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic touring cycling around Lake Vyrnwy?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling around Lake Vyrnwy, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the area's natural beauty, including its 'Dark Skies' for stargazing, can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn offering stunning foliage and winter providing a quiet, crisp experience for well-prepared cyclists.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lake Vyrnwy?
Yes, the most prominent circular route is the approximately 11-mile (18 km) road that encircles Lake Vyrnwy itself. This route offers stunning reservoir views, dense forests, and rolling hills, and is generally considered moderate. Many of the no-traffic routes on komoot also feature circular paths, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic touring cycling routes in Lake Vyrnwy?
Cyclists can expect a diverse mix of terrain. The immediate lakeside paths are relatively flat, offering easy riding. However, routes extending beyond the lake perimeter often feature significant elevation changes and climbs into the surrounding Berwyn Mountains. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads and well-maintained tracks, winding through woodlands, moorland, and open countryside.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic touring cycling options around Lake Vyrnwy?
The 11-mile (18 km) lakeside loop around Lake Vyrnwy is a popular choice for families due to its generally moderate difficulty and scenic views. While some routes venture into more challenging terrain, there are options suitable for various skill levels, allowing families to enjoy the tranquil environment away from heavy traffic.
Where can I find parking for no-traffic touring cycling routes near Lake Vyrnwy?
Parking is available at various points around Lake Vyrnwy, particularly near the main attractions like the Lake Vyrnwy Dam and the RSPB Reserve. The replacement village of Llanwddyn, near the dam, also offers amenities and parking facilities, providing convenient starting points for your cycling adventures.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes offer access to several notable attractions. You can cycle past the impressive Lake Vyrnwy Dam, a Grade I historic building, and the architecturally striking Lake Vyrnwy Straining Tower. The 24,000-acre RSPB Reserve around the lake provides opportunities for birdwatching and features a sculpture park. Additionally, you'll encounter stunning natural features like waterfalls, including the one near Rhiwargor, and enjoy panoramic views of the Berwyn Mountains.
Are there cafes or amenities available along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, the replacement village of Llanwddyn, situated near the Lake Vyrnwy Dam, offers amenities such as a tourist information center, cafes, and gift shops. These provide convenient stops for refreshments and supplies during your ride. Bike hire is also available at Lake Vyrnwy.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lake Vyrnwy?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, traffic-free environment, the stunning natural beauty of the lake and surrounding mountains, and the diverse cycling opportunities ranging from gentle lakeside loops to challenging climbs. The sense of escape and immersion in nature is frequently highlighted.
Are there any challenging no-traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. While the lakeside loop is moderate, routes extending into the surrounding hills and the Berwyn Mountains offer significant challenges. Options like the high pass loop from Lake Vyrnwy to Llyn Tegid / Bala Lake, or tackling the Bwlch y Groes (known as the 'Hellfire Pass') with its epic five-mile climb, provide strenuous adventures for experienced touring cyclists seeking elevation and panoramic views.
Can I expect to see wildlife on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, Lake Vyrnwy is a designated national nature reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and a Special Protection Area, making it rich in wildlife. The RSPB Reserve is home to a variety of birds, including peregrine falcons, pied flycatchers, and redstarts. Cycling through the extensive woodlands and moorland offers excellent opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
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