The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Martin-De-Bavel

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Saint-Martin-De-Bavel area. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult challenges, ensuring a car-free experience.

The routes around Saint-Martin-De-Bavel feature varied terrain, from the relatively flat stretches along canals like the Savière Canal to more challenging ascents in mountainous areas. You'll find routes that incorporate significant climbs, such as the Col du Grand Colombier loop from Lavanche, as well as scenic paths through gorges and past natural reserves.

While the routes in this guide are primarily moderate to difficult, the region offers potential for family-friendly cycling, especially along canal paths. The Belle vue – Culoz loop from Culoz-Béon is the shortest route at just over 10 km and could be a good starting point for families looking for a less strenuous, car-free experience.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by notable landmarks. For example, the Col du Grand Colombier loop from Lavanche can lead you to the Grand Colombier Cross and orientation table, offering panoramic vistas. The region also features natural wonders like the Thurignin Gorges and the Cerveyrieu Waterfall, which are accessible from various points in the area.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes featured in this guide are circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the extensive Savière Canal – Chanaz loop from Belley and the shorter Col de Ballon (929 m) – Col du Ballon loop from Belley.

The Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region, including Saint-Martin-De-Bavel, is generally best for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and potentially high water flow in gorges like Thurignin, while summer provides warm, sunny days. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Winter cycling might be possible on lower elevation routes, but higher mountain passes like the Col du Grand Colombier may be affected by snow or ice.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the serene, car-free environment, the challenging climbs, and the exceptional views, particularly from mountain passes and along the canals.

Yes, the region is known for its waterways. The Savière Canal – Chanaz loop from Belley is a prime example, offering a peaceful ride along the Savière Canal, which connects to the Rhône. The Rock Tunnel on the ViaRhôna – Virignin footbridge loop from Belley also incorporates sections of the ViaRhôna Cycle Path, which often follows the Rhône river.

The longest no-traffic road cycling route in this guide is the Savière Canal – Chanaz loop from Belley, covering approximately 72.6 kilometers. This difficult route offers a substantial ride through varied landscapes.

Absolutely. The region is home to significant ascents. The Col du Grand Colombier loop from Lavanche, though shorter, features the renowned Col du Grand Colombier, a challenging mountain pass popular with experienced cyclists. Other routes also include substantial elevation gains, providing a good test for advanced riders.

While most routes in this guide are moderate to difficult, the shortest option, the Belle vue – Culoz loop from Culoz-Béon (10.4 km), is rated moderate and could be a good starting point for beginners seeking a car-free experience. It offers a taste of the region's beauty without extreme distances or elevation.