The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Costes

There are over 20 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Les Costes, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 11 difficult routes to explore.

The terrain around Les Costes, situated in the Champsaur valley, is varied. You can expect picturesque backdrops of hedged farmland and views dominated by peaks like the Vieux Chaillol. Many routes involve ascents to mountain passes, offering challenging climbs and spectacular views, characteristic of the Hautes-Alpes region.

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. One such option is the Bike loop from La Fare-en-Champsaur, which covers about 9 km with minimal elevation gain, making it a pleasant and accessible ride.

For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes involving mountain passes are ideal. The Chaillol 1600 – Monotrace in undergrowth loop from La Fare-en-Champsaur is a difficult route spanning over 36 km with more than 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Viewpoint – Col du Noyer (1664 m) loop from Lacoue, offering significant climbs and rewarding views.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can cycle towards the famous Col du Noyer (1664 m), known for its spectacular views and dramatic landscapes. Other notable features in the broader area include the Infernet Gorge with its dramatic rock formations, and the serene Lacs de Pétarel.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Les Costes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your path. Examples include the Col du Noyer (Noyer Pass) – Col du Noyer (1664 m) loop from Le Noyer and the Viewpoint loop from Le Noyer, both offering scenic circular journeys.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the stunning Alpine landscapes, the challenging yet rewarding mountain passes like Col du Noyer, and the overall peaceful experience of cycling on roads with light traffic.

The best time for touring cycling in Les Costes is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During July and August, some legendary passes in the Hautes-Alpes region even participate in the "Cols Réservés" program, closing to motorized traffic on specific days for a unique car-free experience. However, always check local conditions, especially for higher passes, as weather can change rapidly.

Absolutely. The region is renowned for its panoramic vistas. The Col du Noyer (1664 m) offers spectacular views, including a dramatic contrast between its mineral and more bucolic sides. Many routes are designed to pass through or lead to viewpoints, showcasing the beauty of the Champsaur valley and surrounding peaks.

While the focus is on natural landscapes and no-traffic routes, the broader Hautes-Alpes region is dotted with picturesque villages. Cycling through the Champsaur valley will often bring you close to charming hamlets. For more extensive touring, towns like Briançon (the highest town in Europe) and Embrun are accessible, offering historical and cultural points of interest, though these may involve roads with more traffic.

Elevation gain varies significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Easy routes, like the Bike loop from La Fare-en-Champsaur, have minimal gain (around 40 meters). Moderate routes, such as the Viewpoint loop from Le Noyer, can have around 280 meters. Difficult routes, especially those tackling mountain passes, can involve substantial climbs, with some exceeding 1000 meters of elevation gain.