The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac des Sapins

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Lac des Sapins featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of difficulties, from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The terrain around Lac des Sapins is characterized by wooded hills, mid-mountain ascents, and descents, offering a rewarding challenge for road cyclists. You'll encounter a mix of open landscapes, dense Douglas fir forests, and picturesque lakeside paths. Routes often feature significant elevation changes, with some loops tackling notable 'cols' (mountain passes) like the Col de la Cambuse and the Col de Nuzières.

Yes, several routes are rated as 'difficult' and are perfect for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. For instance, the Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) loop from Amplepuis covers nearly 70 km with over 1100 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Oingt – Oingt loop from Valsonne, which features over 1300 meters of ascent over 58 km.

The best seasons for road cycling around Lac des Sapins are typically spring, summer, and early autumn. During these times, the weather is generally favorable, and the natural beauty of the Beaujolais Vert region, with its lush forests and open pastures, is at its peak. Autumn offers particularly stunning views as the foliage changes color.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. This makes planning your trip and parking more convenient. Examples include the Thizy church loop from Thizy and the By the canal – Roanne loop from Saint-Victor - Thizy.

The routes offer spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the Côte Roannaise and the Monts de la Madeleine. You'll cycle through a 'green setting' of Douglas fir forests, open pastures, and charming villages. The artificial Lac des Sapins itself, with its large biological swimming pool, is a central feature, and you might pass by natural highlights like the Mollières woods or the Grand Mont.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages where many of these routes begin, such as Amplepuis, Thizy, Valsonne, or Saint-Victor - Thizy. Specific parking information can often be found on the individual route pages or by checking local municipality websites for designated parking areas near the starting points.

While public transport options might be limited directly to every starting point, the town of Cublize, where Lac des Sapins is located, can be accessed. From there, you might need to cycle a short distance to reach the specific start of a route. It's advisable to check regional bus or train schedules in advance, especially if you plan to bring your bike.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.69 stars. Reviewers often praise the challenging yet rewarding climbs, the tranquility of the no-traffic roads, and the stunning natural beauty of the Beaujolais Vert region, particularly the dense forests and panoramic viewpoints.

Yes, there are routes categorized as 'moderate' that offer a less intense but still enjoyable experience. The Thizy church loop from Thizy is a good example, covering about 34 km with around 580 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate option is the By the canal – Roanne loop from Saint-Victor - Thizy, which is longer but has a more gradual elevation profile.