The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet

There are 12 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, with 11 categorized as moderate and 1 as difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The no traffic road cycling routes around Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet vary in length and elevation. For example, you can find moderate routes like the View of the Vercors Mountains – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Treffort, which covers 16 km with nearly 400 meters of elevation gain. Longer options include the Monestier-de-Clermont – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Monestier-de-Clermont, spanning almost 30 km with over 650 meters of ascent.

Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Lac de Monteynard – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Treffort, which offers a scenic 22.6 km loop with over 500 meters of climbing.

Cyclists can expect breathtaking scenery characterized by the lake's incredible turquoise blue waters, especially on clear days, contrasted with surrounding alpine landscapes and mountain vistas. Routes often provide panoramic views of the lake and peaks, traversing diverse terrain including gorges and forest trails. The 'Corniche du Drac' is particularly noted for its beautiful views and reduced traffic.

While cycling, you'll encounter several points of interest. The Treffort - La Mira Pier offers great views, and the View of the Brion Bridge is another notable landmark. The famous Himalayan footbridges, the Ebron Footbridge and Drac Footbridge, are primarily for hiking but are impressive engineering marvels near some cycling paths, offering a chance to stretch your legs and explore on foot.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning turquoise lake views, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the overall tranquility of the traffic-free routes that allow for an immersive experience in the alpine landscape.

While most routes are categorized as moderate, offering some challenge, the guide focuses on traffic-free options which enhance safety and enjoyment for all. Routes like the View of the Vercors Mountains – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Treffort (16 km, 397m elevation) are shorter and could be a good starting point for those looking for a less strenuous ride while still enjoying the region's beauty.

The best time for road cycling around Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the natural beauty of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains is at its peak. Summer offers warm conditions, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.

The villages surrounding Lac de Monteynard-Avignonet, such as Treffort, often have amenities like cafes and restaurants. While specific establishments are not listed in the route details, these charming villages are good places to look for refreshments and meals to complement your ride.

Many of the routes start from villages like Treffort or Monestier-de-Clermont, which typically offer public parking facilities. For example, the Treffort - La Mira Pier – Hydraulic dam wall loop from Treffort begins in Treffort, making it convenient to park and start your ride.

Yes, you can certainly combine your road cycling trip with a visit to the famous Himalayan footbridges. While cycling is not permitted on the footbridges themselves, they are located near some of the cycling routes. You could cycle to the access points and then enjoy the thrilling 12 km hike across the Ebron Footbridge and Drac Footbridge, which are suspended 80 meters above the lake. For more information on the footbridges, you can visit Grenoble Tourisme.