The best traffic-free bike rides around Rhône

There are over 180 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the Rhône region, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find 28 easy routes, 128 moderate routes, and 33 challenging routes to explore.

The Rhône region offers incredibly diverse landscapes for traffic-free cycling. You can ride through the picturesque vineyards of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône, enjoy the generally flat sections along the Rhône River Valley, or tackle the rolling hills and panoramic views of the Monts du Lyonnais. Many routes also feature charming villages and historic sites.

Yes, the Rhône region is well-suited for family cycling with several traffic-free greenways. The ViaRhôna, for example, offers many secure sections ideal for families, tracing the Rhône River through scenic landscapes. The Via Venaissia is another excellent family-friendly greenway, following an old railway line between towns like Jonquières and Carpentras, providing a safe and pleasant ride.

Many routes offer stunning natural attractions and viewpoints. You can cycle past the unique natural monument of Le Saule d'Oingt, or enjoy views from Rémont Mountain. The region also features prominent peaks like Mont Brouilly and Mount Saint-Rigaud, which provide spectacular backdrops and often have routes nearby offering scenic vistas.

The best seasons for traffic-free road cycling in the Rhône Valley are generally spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with less extreme heat than summer and beautiful scenery, especially during the grape harvest in autumn. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, particularly in July and August.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes in the Monts du Lyonnais offer significant elevation gain and rewarding panoramic views. A great example is the Mont Signal Circuit, which covers over 45 km with more than 800 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding yet scenic ride.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in Rhône are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning vineyard landscapes, the quiet and well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to discover charming villages and historic sites without the disturbance of vehicle traffic.

Yes, there are many excellent circular no-traffic road cycling routes available. For instance, the Le Saule d'Oingt – Le Saule d'Oingt loop from Chazay-Marcilly offers a moderate 49 km circular ride through beautiful scenery. Another option is the View of Savigny – Col de la Croix de Mazieux loop from L'Arbresle, which is also a moderate circular route of nearly 50 km with significant elevation.

Yes, the Rhône region is rich in Roman heritage. The ViaRhôna, for example, passes through or near ancient sites like the Roman archaeological site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal and the historic city of Vienne. Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a major hub along the ViaRhôna, offering numerous historical attractions. You can also find charming medieval villages like Pérouges along some routes.

Many traffic-free routes, especially sections of the ViaRhôna and greenways like the Beaujolais Greenway, are designed with accessibility in mind. Major towns along these routes, such as Lyon, often have good public transport links and designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route starting points for detailed public transport and parking information, as options can vary.

Yes, the Rhône region is known for its hospitality. Many traffic-free routes, particularly those passing through vineyards or charming villages, offer opportunities to stop at local cafes, restaurants, and even wine estates for tastings. Accommodation options, ranging from guesthouses to hotels, are also available in the towns and villages along or near these popular cycling paths.