The best traffic-free bike rides around La Chenalotte

There are 9 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around La Chenalotte featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of challenges, with 6 rated as moderate and 3 as difficult, providing options for various skill levels.

The routes around La Chenalotte traverse the varied topography of the Jura plateau, offering a mix of ascents and descents. You'll cycle through dense forests and open plains, providing panoramic views and diverse scenery. The region's altitudes, ranging from 888m to 1092m, ensure engaging rides with significant elevation changes.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, you can enjoy the Synagogue of La Chaux-de-Fonds – Bahnhofplatz La Chaux-de-Fonds loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds Les Forges, or the Mont Vouillot Viewpoint loop from Le Bélieu, which offers scenic vistas.

The region is rich in natural beauty. While cycling, you might encounter views of the Doubs River, which winds through dramatic landscapes. For specific attractions, consider visiting the stunning Saut du Doubs Waterfall, or enjoying the View of the Doubs and the Lac des Brenets from the Belvédère des Taillards. The View of the Étang du Moulin also offers a picturesque stop.

The Jura Mountains, including La Chenalotte, are generally best for cycling from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and colder temperatures at these altitudes.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the wider Jura Mountains region offers sections of the EuroVelo 6 - The Rivers Route, which follows rivers and canals on safe paths, making it accessible for leisurely rides and families. These paths are generally car-free and suitable for all ages.

Specific parking information varies by starting point. However, many villages and towns in the region, such as Le Bélieu or Morteau, offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options near your chosen route's starting point.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience around La Chenalotte, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, the diverse scenery ranging from forests to open plains, and the engaging climbs and descents that make for a rewarding ride.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Hotel Chasseral – Chasseral Summit and Viewpoint loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds Les Forges offer significant elevation gain (over 1300m) and longer distances, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience. Additionally, the Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) has a road cycling version spanning nearly 380 km for an immersive multi-day adventure.

While the routes themselves focus on quiet roads, the villages and towns you pass through or start from, such as La Chenalotte, Le Bélieu, or Morteau, typically offer cafes, bakeries, and restaurants where you can refuel and rest. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes.

Beyond the specific no-traffic road routes, the Jura Mountains benefit from a well-developed cycling infrastructure, including dedicated cycle paths and routes shared with very light traffic. The EuroVelo 6 route, for instance, offers extensive sections along the Doubs River and Rhône-Rhine Canal that are largely car-free and ideal for a peaceful ride.