The best traffic-free bike rides in Mercantour

Mercantour offers a wide selection of no traffic touring cycling routes, with over 150 options. These include 2 easy routes, 32 moderate routes, and 117 difficult routes, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

The best seasons for no traffic touring cycling in Mercantour are generally spring and autumn. During these times, temperatures are mild, and traffic on the main roads (which you'll be avoiding on these routes) is lighter, providing a more pleasant and serene cycling experience.

Mercantour's no traffic touring cycling routes traverse a wild and varied landscape. You can expect challenging climbs over iconic mountain passes like Col de la Bonette, Col d'Allos, and Col de la Cayolle, with gradients reaching up to 13% in sections. The terrain also includes picturesque alpine meadows, dense larch and pine forests, and dramatic gorges such as the Gorges de Daluis and Gorges de Cians.

While many routes in Mercantour are challenging, there are a few easier no traffic touring cycling options available. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, making them suitable for those new to touring cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride. For example, the Authion Loop Trail is a moderate option that offers a taste of the region's beauty without extreme difficulty.

Mercantour is rich in natural beauty. You might encounter stunning features like the 'Red Gorge' of the Gorges de Daluis, the impressive Gorges de Cians, and numerous clear glacial lakes. The Waterfall - Torrent de Vens and Waterfall before Cougourde refuge are also notable highlights.

Yes, Mercantour is dotted with cultural and historical gems. You can explore the legendary Vallée des Merveilles, famous for its 3,000-year-old Bronze Age rock carvings. Additionally, many picturesque Provençal mountain villages, such as Saorge, Tende, and Roubion, offer a glimpse into centuries-old architecture and local life. You might also pass by historical sites like the Camp des Fourches military camp or the Ouvrage de la Forca Ruins.

Mercantour National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, so wildlife spotting is definitely possible. Keep an eye out for chamois, ibex, and marmots in the higher altitudes. You might also see stags, golden eagles soaring overhead, or even the elusive bearded vulture. The park's diverse habitats support a rich array of fauna.

Yes, Mercantour offers several circular routes perfect for touring cyclists. These loops allow you to start and end at the same point, making logistics easier. Examples include the challenging The Turini curves – Col de Turini loop from Moulinet or the scenic Lake Oronaye – Lac de l'Orrenaye loop from Col de Larche / Colle della Maddalena.

The Mercantour region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, untamed alpine scenery, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the sense of escape from urban life that these no traffic routes provide. The diverse landscapes, from high mountain passes to deep gorges and picturesque villages, are frequently highlighted as major draws.

Absolutely. Mercantour is renowned for its high mountain passes and peaks. Many no traffic touring cycling routes will take you near or over iconic passes like Col de la Bonette, one of Europe's highest paved roads, or Col de la Cayolle. You can also find routes that offer views of towering peaks, with Mont Gélas being the highest point in the Alpes Maritimes. The Bonette Summit is a particularly popular destination.