The best traffic-free bike rides around Brullioles

There are nearly 60 dedicated touring cycling routes around Brullioles that focus on minimizing traffic, offering a wide range of options for exploring the Monts du Lyonnais region. These routes vary in difficulty, with 24 moderate and 34 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.

While most routes in the Brullioles area are moderate to difficult due to the hilly terrain of the Monts du Lyonnais, there is at least one easy touring cycling route designed to be traffic-free. For a moderate option that's a good introduction to the area's charm, consider the La Porte de Brullioles – Crozat loop from Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset, which covers about 15 km with manageable elevation.

The no traffic touring cycling routes around Brullioles traverse the diverse landscapes of the Monts du Lyonnais. You'll experience rolling hills, lush green forests, and agricultural lands. Many routes offer panoramic views, especially from higher points like Mount Pothu, and some may even provide glimpses of the distant Alps on clear days. The region's proximity to the Beaujolais vineyards also means you might cycle through picturesque wine country.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes around Brullioles are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example of a challenging circular route is the Schöner ruhiger Campingplatz – Les crêtes loop from Brussieu, which spans over 45 km and features significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding full-day tour.

The routes often pass by stunning viewpoints and historical sites. You can find several mountain passes offering great vistas, such as Col de la Luère or Malval Pass (732 m). Other notable attractions include the Old Col de la Croix du Ban and the Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid Castle and Church. Many routes also offer views of the surrounding Monts du Lyonnais and potentially the Beaujolais vineyards.

The best seasons for no traffic touring cycling in Brullioles are generally spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant, with blooming flowers in spring and colorful foliage in autumn. Summer can also be pleasant, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat, especially on longer routes with significant climbs.

The duration of these tours varies significantly based on their length and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the Montrottier loop from Montrottier, covering about 22 km with 446 meters of elevation, might take around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours. More challenging routes, such as the Saint Clair chapel – Malval Pass (732 m) loop from Brussieu (40 km, 899 m elevation), could easily take 3 to 4 hours or more, depending on your pace and stops.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning panoramic views from the Monts du Lyonnais, and the varied terrain that makes for an engaging touring experience. The sense of escaping traffic and immersing oneself in nature is a frequently highlighted positive aspect.

While the routes are designed to be traffic-free, they often pass through or near charming villages in the Monts du Lyonnais and Beaujolais regions. These villages typically offer opportunities for refreshments, including local cafes, bakeries, and small restaurants where you can refuel. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details or local maps for amenities along your chosen path.

Given Brullioles' location within the Monts du Lyonnais, you can expect significant elevation gains on many routes. For example, a moderate route like the Pampailly – Grand Molard loop from Brussieu features around 400 meters of ascent over 18 km. More difficult routes can involve climbs of 800 to 900 meters or more, providing invigorating challenges and rewarding views from the summits.