The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Laurent-De-Chamousset

This guide features 6 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset, offering a range of distances and challenges for gravel biking enthusiasts.

The Monts du Lyonnais, where Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset is located, offers a diverse and hilly landscape. You'll encounter a mix of verdant forests, open fields, and river valleys, with elevations ranging from approximately 384 to 691 meters. This varied terrain is ideal for gravel biking, blending both paved and unpaved surfaces.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, you can find a moderate option like the Gravel loop from Aveize. This route covers 10.6 km with a manageable elevation gain, making it suitable for those seeking a less strenuous, traffic-free gravel experience.

For a more challenging ride, consider the View of Saint-Laurent – Chapelle Saint-Bonnet loop from Saint-Clément-les-Places, which spans over 28 km with significant elevation. Another demanding option is the In the valley – Chapelle Saint-Bonnet loop from Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset, offering a substantial climb over 25 km.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point without needing to arrange transport back. Examples include the Gravel loop from Aveize and the Souzy fitness trail – Chapelle Saint-Bonnet loop from Saint-Clément-les-Places.

The trails often pass through scenic natural areas and near historical points. You might encounter features like the Lac du Ronzey or the Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid Castle and Church. The region is also known for its mountain passes, such as Malval Pass (732 m), offering panoramic views.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience here, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the trails, the beautiful undulating landscapes of the Monts du Lyonnais, and the rewarding challenges offered by the varied terrain.

While many routes in this guide are rated difficult, the Gravel loop from Aveize is a moderate option that could be suitable for families with older children or those with some gravel biking experience, given its shorter distance and less extreme elevation. Always check the route details to ensure it matches your family's skill level.

Many of the routes traverse the hilly Monts du Lyonnais, providing numerous opportunities for scenic views. The region is known for its panoramic vistas, especially from higher elevations like the Crêt de la Madone or various mountain passes such as Croix-de-Part Pass, which offer expansive views of the surrounding countryside.

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Many of the routes start from villages or towns like Saint-Clément-les-Places, Aveize, or Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset itself. You can typically find public parking in these areas. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route on komoot for specific parking recommendations or local information.