The best traffic-free bike rides around Curis-Au-Mont-D'Or

There are over 160 no-traffic touring cycling routes around Curis-Au-Mont-D'Or, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 50 easy routes, over 50 moderate routes, and more than 60 difficult routes for experienced cyclists.

The Monts d'Or region is characterized by distinctive golden-colored limestone, offering significant elevation changes. You'll find a mix of challenging ascents and rewarding scenic routes. Beyond the hills, the region features paved and unpaved surfaces, including paths through forests and vineyards, catering to different cycling preferences.

Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The banks of the Saône River and the local Thou stream provide pleasant, often flatter, cycling paths. The Voie Bleue, a dedicated cycle path along the Saône, is particularly suitable for families, offering a smooth, protected route. An example of an easy route is the Neuville-sur-Saône – Fleurieu-sur-Saône loop from Fleurieu-sur-Saône, which is nearly 15 km long with minimal elevation gain.

Cycling routes often lead to remarkable viewpoints. Mont Thou, at 609 meters, provides an exceptional panorama stretching from Lyon to Mont Blanc. Mont Verdun, the highest point in the Monts d'Or at 626 meters, offers views over the Monts du Lyonnais and the western Lyon region. You can experience these views on routes like the Mont Thou – Le bois des Cieux loop from Rochetaillée-sur-Saône.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes in Curis-Au-Mont-D'Or are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the La Demeure du Chaos – Mont Thou loop from Saint-Romain-au-Mont-d'Or offers a moderate 11.3 km circular ride through varied landscapes.

The region is rich in history. You can explore old wash houses along paths, and the 13th-century Château de Curis is nestled at the edge of the forest. Other notable landmarks include the Croix de Rampau and various castles such as Rochetaillée-sur-Saône Castle and Fétan Castle.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 320 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, panoramic views, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and safe cycling experience away from traffic.

Absolutely. The Monts d'Or region offers plenty of challenging routes with significant elevation gain. For instance, the Croix de Rampau – Verdun Pass loop from Saint-Germain-au-Mont-d'Or is a difficult 23.9 km route with over 770 meters of ascent, providing a substantial touring experience.

Curis-Au-Mont-D'Or is located just north of the Lyon metropolis, making it easily accessible for day trips or longer touring adventures. A 50-kilometer circular route starting from Place Bellecour in Lyon takes cyclists through the hilly landscapes of the Monts d'Or, including Mont Thou and Mont Verdun, providing a substantial touring experience with 700 meters of ascending elevation. For more details on cycling from Lyon, you can refer to this resource: Cycle Tour 5: A day of sport in the Monts d'Or.

The region is enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, ideal for touring. Summer can be warm, but routes through forests and along rivers provide shade. Even in winter, many paths remain accessible, though some higher elevation routes might require checking local conditions.

Many routes in the Monts d'Or region naturally combine both. For example, the La Barollière Castle – Verdun Pass loop from Poleymieux-au-Mont-d'Or offers a moderate 15.4 km ride that takes you past historical structures while enjoying the scenic views from the Monts d'Or.