The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts
4.0
(3)
19
riders
1
ride
No traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts traverse a landscape characterized by verdant pastures, dense forests, and varied terrain. The region features numerous panoramic viewpoints, including cols like Col de Boubon and Col de la Sibérie, offering rewarding vistas. Gravel biking here involves navigating between grand horizons and through the Grosne valley and Charollais region. This diverse Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts cycling terrain presents elevation challenges and exciting descents suitable for different skill levels.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Madonna Chapel – Col de Durbize loop from Fleurie, a 15.2 miles (24.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 45 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain and leads to panoramic viewpoints.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Col du Fût d'Avenas – Madonna Chapel loop from Fleurie, a difficult 15.4 miles (24.8 km) path. It offers varied terrain through forests and pastures, with notable ascents.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Madonna Chapel – Rémont Mountain loop from Fleurie, a 14.8 miles (23.8 km) trail leading through diverse landscapes with considerable elevation, often completed in about 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts is defined by its mix of pastures, forests, and panoramic viewpoints from various cols. The network offers options for more challenging rides with significant elevation gains.
- The routes in Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4 reviews. More than 15 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
6
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
24.9km
01:47
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
2
riders
24.8km
02:15
650m
650m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(1)
2
riders
23.8km
01:50
540m
550m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Magnificent ride mostly in the shade on level, smooth ground.
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The viewpoint is located in the well-known Beaujolais wine region, in the municipality of Chénas. It is an old stone ruin (historically often referred to as Cabane des Chasseurs or hunter's hut), which has been equipped with a modern metal staircase and a viewing platform. The ruin is located at 515 meters above sea level and offers hikers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of the surrounding vineyards and valleys of the region.
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The Col de Durbize is a mountain pass at 550 meters above sea level in the municipality of Chiroubles, in the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The pass is located in the Massif Central and, as an important road junction (intersection of roads D26, D86, and D18E1), connects surrounding wine villages such as Villié-Morgon and Beaujeu. It is particularly popular with road cyclists and hikers for its panoramic views.
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Picturesque mill, which nestles idyllically into the landscape.
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The Castle of Berzé-le-Châtel (also known as Forteresse de Berzé) is the largest and best-preserved medieval castle in Southern Burgundy. The complex dates back to a 10th-century castrum and was strategically built on a rocky outcrop to protect the nearby powerful Abbey of Cluny. The fortress consists of three ring walls and features 13 towers (including two keeps/donjons) as well as an imposing gatehouse. The heart of the interior is a remarkable Carolingian chapel.
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In the Middle Ages, the abbey was one of the most influential spiritual and cultural centers in Europe. Cluny was the mother house of the Cluniac Reform and headed a federation of over 1,200 monasteries. The third abbey church (Cluny was the largest church in the Christian world until the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome). Of the once-mighty complex, only parts of the southern transept remain today, as the abbey was largely used as a quarry and demolished after the French Revolution.
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The town of Cluny was based on the Benedictine monastery (Cluniac Abbey), founded in 910. The abbey was the starting point and center of the Cluniac reform at the beginning of the 10th century. Cluny reached its peak membership at the beginning of the 12th century with approximately 400 monks. The last abbey church (Cluniac 3) was the world's largest Romanesque basilica and, until the construction of today's St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the largest church in Christendom. The church had seven towers. Although large parts of the building were destroyed, the remaining relics are absolutely remarkable and make a visit to Cluny an unforgettable experience!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts?
There are several dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts, offering diverse terrain for your rides. This guide features 3 specific routes, but the wider region, including the nearby Ain, boasts an extensive network of over 2000 km of marked trails, many of which are suitable for gravel biking away from car traffic.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in this region?
The terrain around Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts is wonderfully varied, perfect for gravel biking. You'll encounter a mix of verdant landscapes, including pastures and forests, with routes traversing moorlands above the village, the Grosne valley, and the Charollais region. Expect diverse surfaces and elevation changes, offering both scenic beauty and engaging challenges.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, the routes in this guide, while offering beautiful scenery, are rated as difficult due to their elevation gains and distances. For example, the Col du Fût d'Avenas – Madonna Chapel loop from Fleurie covers nearly 25 km with over 650 meters of ascent, providing a significant workout for experienced gravel bikers.
What are the best times of year for gravel biking in Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts?
The region is generally pleasant for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming landscapes, while autumn offers vibrant colors. Summer is also great, but be mindful of warmer temperatures, especially on longer climbs. Winter riding is possible, but check local conditions for snow or ice, particularly at higher elevations.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or landmarks along the gravel bike trails?
Absolutely! The area is known for its panoramic views. Many routes pass by or offer access to stunning vistas from various 'cols' (mountain passes). You can find breathtaking views from places like Col de la Sibérie, 638 m, and some routes even offer distant glimpses of Mont Blanc. The Madonna Chapel – Rémont Mountain loop from Fleurie includes the Rémont Mountain, which is a notable viewpoint.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes that avoid traffic?
Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular loops designed to minimize traffic exposure. For instance, the Madonna Chapel – Col de Durbize loop from Fleurie offers a 24 km circular ride through the scenic landscape, ensuring you return to your starting point without retracing your steps on busy roads.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, verdant landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding climbs to panoramic viewpoints, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from car traffic.
Are there any mountain passes I can cycle over on these trails?
Yes, the region is dotted with several mountain passes that make for excellent gravel biking destinations and offer rewarding climbs. Notable passes include Col de la Sibérie, Col de Crie, and Col du Fût d'Avenas. These passes often provide stunning views and exciting descents.
Are there any cultural or historical sites to see near the trails?
While the focus is on natural beauty, Saint-Jacques-Des-Arrêts itself has cultural significance. The village church houses monumental frescoes by the Lyon painter Jean Fusaro, and the village was historically a stop for pilgrims on the Way of St. James. You can explore these local attractions before or after your ride.
Where can I find more information about the broader region for cycling?
For more general information about cycling and outdoor activities in the wider region, you can explore resources like Ain Tourisme, which highlights the extensive MTB and gravel trail networks available, or Beaujolais Tourisme for local hiking and cycling circuits.
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