The best traffic-free bike rides around Pont-En-Royans

There are over 45 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Pont-En-Royans listed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy scenic loops to challenging mountain passes within the Vercors Regional Natural Park.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll find relatively flat sections along the Bourne River, especially in the first 12 km of the Gorges de la Bourne, ideal for leisurely rides. However, many routes venture into the Vercors Regional Natural Park, featuring challenging climbs with gradients typically between 5-7% and impressive cliff-top roads like those leading to Combe Laval. Routes like the Gorges de la Bourne – Bourne Gorge loop from Pont-en-Royans offer a mix of both.

Yes, there are 9 easy no traffic touring cycling routes available. A good option for beginners is the View of the Isère loop from Saint-Romans, which is approximately 15 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant introduction to cycling in the region.

Many routes offer stunning views of the Gorges de la Bourne, the Bourne River, and the Vercors plateau. You can also explore unique natural attractions such as the Choranche Caves and the Moulin-Marquis Waterfall. The iconic Combe Laval Cirque and its balcony road are also accessible on some routes, providing breathtaking vistas.

Yes, many of the no traffic routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the challenging Gorges de la Bourne – Bourne Gorge loop from Pont-en-Royans and the shorter Choranche – Presles loop from Choranche.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for touring cycling in Pont-En-Royans. The weather is milder, and the natural landscapes are particularly vibrant. Summer can also be pleasant, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, though some higher elevation routes might be cooler. Winter can bring snow to the Vercors plateau, making some routes inaccessible.

Pont-en-Royans itself offers riverside cafes and restaurants, making it a perfect starting or stopping point for refreshments. While specific cafes directly on every no traffic route are not guaranteed, many routes pass through or near charming villages within the Vercors Regional Natural Park where you can find local establishments to refuel.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 230 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning and varied landscapes, the unique experience of cycling through the gorges, and the sense of tranquility on the less-trafficked roads, especially the iconic balcony roads.

Yes, the region is known for its mountain passes, and some routes offer a less-trafficked experience. For instance, the Col de Mont Noir (Pass, 1431m) – Forest Road of the Crochets loop from Presles provides a challenging climb with panoramic views, often on quieter roads within the Vercors Natural Park.

While many routes are day trips, the region provides access to longer cycling experiences. For example, the Saint-Nazaire-en-Royans – Isère cycle route loop from Auberives-en-Royans is a challenging 192 km route that can be undertaken as a multi-day tour, offering extensive exploration of the surrounding areas with a focus on quieter roads.