The best traffic-free bike rides around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon
4.5
(139)
3,983
riders
112
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon traverse a diverse landscape characterized by picturesque rolling hills, extensive vineyards, and tranquil paths along the Saône River. The region is situated between the Bresse, the Monts du Beaujolais, and the Mâconnais vineyards, offering varied terrain for cyclists. Notable physical features include the dramatic limestone cliffs of Roche de Solutré and Roche de Vergisson, which provide challenging ascents and panoramic views. The area also features dedicated cycling paths like the Voie Bleue, offering…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3.8
(6)
42
riders
45.2km
02:31
920m
920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.9
(7)
31
riders
32.4km
01:54
750m
750m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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1.0
(1)
63
riders
48.6km
02:15
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
46
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
32
riders
39.8km
01:54
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon
Tips from the Community
The Rock of Solutré is a world-famous, 493-meter-high limestone rock in the south of the Burgundy region. It is located amidst the picturesque vineyards of the municipality of Solutré-Pouilly. The region is officially designated as a Grand Site de France. The hike to the summit is easy to moderate and very doable for families. It takes about 1 hour for the entire loop (approx. 4 kilometers round trip). The elevation gain is around 100 to 140 meters from the official parking lot on well-maintained paths with information panels, although there are many steps.
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The Solutré Rock is a world-famous, 493-meter-high limestone cliff in the south of the Burgundy region. It is situated amidst the picturesque vineyards of the municipality of Solutré-Pouilly. The region is officially designated as a Grand Site de France. The hike to the summit is easy to moderate and well-suited for families. It takes about 1 hour for the entire circular route (approx. 4 kilometers round trip). The elevation gain is around 100 to 140 meters from the official parking lot, on well-maintained paths with information panels, although there are many steps.
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Among anglers, the Saône near Mâcon enjoys a legendary reputation. The river is known for its gigantic European catfish (Waller). In this area, capital fish regularly get caught, which are well over 2 meters long and weigh over 100 kilograms.
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The picture shows the Mâcon-Ville train station (Gare de Mâcon-Ville) in the city center of Mâcon. The original historic 19th-century station building was destroyed in World War II. Today's building, with its distinctive, wave-like curved roof structure, was rebuilt in the 1950s as a combined train and bus station. The station has been extensively modernized. A new barrier-free pedestrian bridge with elevators ensures modern, accessible access to the platforms.
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The Saint-Laurent Bridge (Pont Saint-Laurent) is a historic stone bridge that spans the Saône River. It connects the town of Mâcon in the Saône-et-Loire department with the municipality of Saint-Laurent-sur-Saône in the Ain department. Initial wooden structures were already built by the Romans. The current stone bridge dates back to the 11th century in its core and is considered the oldest bridge over the Saône. The structure consists of twelve stone arches. On one of the pillars, there is a statue of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of boatmen. It is one of the few historic structures in the region that survived the demolitions of World War II unscathed.
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The Voie Verte (Green Way) is a former, paved railway line. At the starting point in Charnay-lès-Mâcon is the Vélo-Gare du Mâconnais - a former train station, which today serves as a tourist office and bicycle rental.
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The Col de Gerbet (612 m) is an idyllic mountain pass in the French wine-growing region of Beaujolais. Depending on the starting point, various roads with little traffic lead up to the pass via the D137. From Juliénas (south-east approach): This route is 7.3 kilometers long. It overcomes 342 meters of altitude with a steady, moderate gradient of 4.7% on average. The road winds through shady forest sections. From La Croix Blanche (west approach): A tougher variant 4.5 kilometers long. Here you conquer 270 meters of altitude with an average gradient of 6% and ramps of up to 11%.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon?
There are over 100 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 15 easy, 73 moderate, and 21 difficult options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these car-free road cycling routes?
The no-traffic routes around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon offer a varied terrain. You'll find picturesque rolling hills, extensive vineyards, and tranquil paths along the Saône River. Some routes feature significant climbing through the Mâconnais hills, while others, like sections of the Voie Bleue, provide a relatively easy, flat experience along the riverside.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers several easy and moderate routes suitable for families. The paths along the Saône River, particularly sections of the Voie Bleue, are generally flat and traffic-free, making them ideal for a relaxed family outing. The Lac de Cormoranche also provides a safe environment for cycling.
What natural landmarks can I see along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes offer stunning views of the region's natural landmarks. You can cycle past the dramatic limestone cliffs of Roche de Solutré and Vergisson Rock, or enjoy the serene beauty of the Saône River. The Mâconnais vineyards also provide a beautiful backdrop for many rides, such as the Chateau de Chasselas loop.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the moderate Chateau de Chasselas loop through vineyards, or the more challenging West side of Mont Brouilly loop.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in this region?
The best time to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Varennes-Lès-Mâcon is typically from spring through early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the vineyards are lush. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and autumn provide cooler rides and beautiful seasonal colors.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Varennes-Lès-Mâcon?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 150 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning vineyard landscapes, the quiet, traffic-free roads, and the diverse routes that cater to all abilities, from gentle riverside rides to challenging climbs with panoramic views.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
Varennes-Lès-Mâcon is close to Mâcon, which has a TGV station (Mâcon-Loché-TGV) and a regional train station. Some routes, like the View of Roche Solutré loop, start near Mâcon-Loché-TGV, making them accessible by train. It's advisable to check local public transport options for specific starting points.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the no-traffic routes?
Yes, many routes pass through charming villages or near towns like Mâcon, where you can find cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. The region's focus on wine tourism also means there are often opportunities to stop at local wineries or small shops for refreshments. It's always a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes.
What are some of the more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes available?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the West side of Mont Brouilly loop offer significant elevation gain through the Mâconnais hills. Another demanding option is the View of Roche Solutré loop, which features substantial climbing and rewards with breathtaking views of the iconic Roche de Solutré.
Are there any long-distance cycling paths that are traffic-free in the area?
Yes, the region is home to the Voie Bleue, a significant dedicated cycling path running along the Saône River, offering a largely traffic-free experience. Additionally, the CycloRoute71, a 680-kilometer route across Burgundy, also traverses the area, utilizing small, low-traffic roads and greenways suitable for various abilities.
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