The best traffic-free bike rides around Paladru
4.5
(318)
3,186
riders
73
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Paladru are centered on Lac de Paladru, a glacial lake known for its distinctive turquoise waters, surrounded by wooded hills and green meadows. The region features diverse landscapes, including the Sensitive Natural Area of the Véronnière and Courbon Marshes, offering unique ecosystems. From higher elevations, panoramic views of Mont Blanc and other mountain ranges are accessible, providing varied terrain for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Paladru
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Chemin des marais – Lake Paladru loop from Charavines, a 16.5 miles (26.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 20 minutes to complete. This route follows the marsh path, highlighting local flora and fauna around the lake.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Chemin des marais loop from Villages du Lac de Paladru, a difficult 21.5 miles (34.7 km) path. This longer loop also explores the marshlands and offers continuous views of Lac de Paladru.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Our Lady of the Vines – Restaurant L'Envol au Vent loop from Montferrat, a 22.2 miles (35.7 km) trail leading through hilly terrain with viewpoints, often completed in about 3 hours 13 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Paladru is defined by a glacial lake, wooded hills, and marshlands, with routes offering options for different ability levels.
- The routes in Paladru are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Paladru's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
33
riders
51.7km
04:41
1,160m
1,160m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
27
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.6
(5)
78
riders
34.5km
03:09
670m
670m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.7
(3)
13
riders
44.7km
03:05
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
24.5km
01:50
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Paladru
Tips from the Community
The climb is on a lovely little road; the first half is quite gentle and leads you to a beautiful pond, while the second half is much steeper and takes you to the summit where there's an antenna. It's a dead end, but it makes for a nice out-and-back hike!
0
0
Lake Paladru is very popular in the summer, especially on weekends. Swimming is possible; there's a small, well-equipped beach.
0
0
This is a classic bike ride around Grenoble, easy and suitable for the whole family.
0
0
A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), where the effects of wind and weather are already visible.
0
0
Nice road from Oyeu, with some nice steep sections
0
0
A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), which already shows the wear and tear of wind and weather.
2
0
Here we encounter three stone cubes stacked on top of each other, each smaller than the one below it. The gray cubes each have a white field in the center of their sides, with a cross carved into it, painted blue and standing out against the gray/white background. This construction forms the basis for the present small sacred monument: above it rises a radiant gold figure of the Madonna. From this prominent position, the Virgin Mary – venerated in France almost always under the title "Notre-Dame" ("Our Lady") – gazes far into the country, and has done so for more than 120 years. @Rainer N. has already explained the date and reason for its construction in his short post.
2
0
The abbey basilica was rebuilt starting around 1490 and completed in 1510 by Bernardino Zaccagni. The famous artist Correggio left his mark on this church. He created five frescoes there, including the lunette with Saint John and the Eagle (1520), which is considered the first to be created. The frescoes, the dome depicting the Ascension of Christ, the decoration of the drum and pendants, and the frieze of images that extends around the entire interior perimeter are all artistic treasures worth discovering. The Way of St. James is very well documented in several places in the church.
9
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Paladru?
There are over 60 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Paladru listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of distances and elevations, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist looking for a peaceful ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these car-free cycling routes?
The no-traffic routes around Paladru feature diverse terrain. You'll find peaceful paths along the lake, including a dedicated Greenway that crosses marshlands. Some routes venture into the surrounding wooded hills, offering more challenging climbs and descents, often on paved or well-maintained surfaces. The region is known for its mix of flat sections and rolling hills.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, Paladru offers several easy, family-friendly options. The dedicated Greenway connecting Charavines to Paladru is particularly suitable, providing a safe and peaceful path away from traffic. This route is ideal for families and those seeking a relaxed ride. You can explore routes like the Chemin des marais – Lake Paladru loop from Charavines for a taste of the local marshlands.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Paladru to avoid traffic?
The best times to enjoy no-traffic touring cycling in Paladru are typically spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). During these seasons, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the routes are less crowded than in the peak summer months. You'll experience the beautiful changing landscapes with fewer visitors.
What natural features can I see along the no-traffic cycling routes?
The routes showcase Paladru's stunning natural beauty. The centerpiece is Lac de Paladru, often called the 'Blue Lake' for its distinctive turquoise waters. Many paths wind through wooded hills and green meadows. You might also encounter the unique ecosystem of the Sensitive Natural Area of the Véronnière and Courbon Marshes, especially along the Chemin des marais.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots on these routes?
Absolutely! Many routes offer magnificent panoramas. From higher elevations, such as those found on routes ascending to St-Pierre de Paladru, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the 'Lac Bleu' and even distant mountain ranges like Mont Blanc, Bauges, Chartreuse, and Belledonne. The Croix des Cochettes View of Lac de Paladru is a notable highlight.
What historical or cultural attractions can I visit near the no-traffic cycling paths?
Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore several historical and cultural sites. The Our Lady of the Vines is a religious building and viewpoint offering great vistas. The Archaeological Museum of Lake Paladru (MALP) provides insight into the area's ancient history. Historic churches, such as the 18th-century Église Saint-Christophe du Pin, also add to the region's charm.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes around Paladru?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Paladru are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the 'Tour du Lac' loop, which circles Lac de Paladru, offering continuous scenic views. The Chemin des marais loop from Villages du Lac de Paladru is another excellent circular choice.
Where can I park my car to access these no-traffic cycling routes?
Parking is generally available in the towns and villages surrounding Lac de Paladru, such as Charavines, Le Pin, and Villages du Lac de Paladru. These locations often serve as convenient starting points for many of the no-traffic routes, including those that connect to the Greenway.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Paladru?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning turquoise waters of Lac de Paladru, the peacefulness of the car-free paths, and the diverse landscapes that range from marshlands to panoramic viewpoints. The well-maintained routes and the opportunity to discover hidden gems are frequently highlighted.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation gain for more experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, while many routes are gentle, the surrounding hills provide opportunities for more challenging rides with significant elevation gain. Routes that ascend to viewpoints like Our Lady of the Vines, such as the Our Lady of the Vines – Restaurant L'Envol au Vent loop from Montferrat, will test your climbing abilities while rewarding you with spectacular views.
Can I find places to eat or drink along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the towns and villages around Lac de Paladru, such as Charavines and Le Pin, offer various cafes, restaurants, and shops where you can refuel. Many establishments are cyclist-friendly, and you'll find options ranging from quick snacks to full meals, often with lovely views of the lake or surrounding countryside.
Most popular attractions around Paladru
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
