The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Laurent-D'Oingt

There are 8 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Laurent-D'Oingt, offering a range of experiences through the beautiful Beaujolais region. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, allowing for a more serene ride.

The terrain around Saint-Laurent-D'Oingt is diverse, featuring rolling hills, expansive vineyards, and dense forests. You'll encounter paths winding through valleys and over hills, characteristic of the 'Pays des Pierres Dorées' (Land of Golden Stones). While many paths are easily accessible, some segments may be unpaved, providing a true gravel biking experience.

While most routes in this guide are rated as 'difficult', there is one moderate option: the Charnay Village and Castle – Charnay - Rhone loop from Pommiers. This 20 km route offers a gentler introduction to gravel biking in the area, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without overly challenging climbs.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Saint-Laurent-D'Oingt vary in length and elevation. You can expect routes ranging from approximately 18 km to 39 km. Elevation gains typically fall between 300 meters and 850 meters, reflecting the hilly nature of the Beaujolais landscape. For example, the Bully – Viaduc de Châtelus loop from Bully is one of the longer options at 39 km with over 840 meters of ascent.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by charming landmarks. You can explore the medieval village of Oingt, known for its golden stone houses, or discover Charnay Village and Castle. The region is also dotted with historic architecture and offers panoramic views from spots like Mont Joli, where the Chapel of Notre Dame de L'Immaculée Conception is located.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, designed to bring you back to your starting point. This includes popular options like the Pays des Pierres Dorées – Oingt loop from Porte des Pierres Dorées and the Pays des Pierres Dorées – Oingt loop from Charnay, allowing for convenient day trips.

The Beaujolais region is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery, with vineyards changing colors. Summer can be warm, but the forested sections provide shade. Winter rides are possible, but some unpaved sections might be muddy or slippery, so checking local conditions is advisable.

Yes, bike rentals, including electric bikes, are available in the wider Beaujolais region. This makes the varied terrain more accessible for a wider range of fitness levels. For more information on rental options, you can check resources like Beaujolais Tourisme.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning panoramic views of the 'Little Tuscan Beaujolaise' landscape, and the charming villages built from golden-hued limestone.

The region is dotted with charming villages like Oingt and Charnay, where you can often find local cafes, restaurants, and wine cellars. These provide excellent opportunities for refreshment stops and to experience the local Beaujolais wine and cuisine. Planning your route with these villages in mind can enhance your biking experience.

Many of the routes start from villages or designated areas where parking is typically available. For example, routes like the Chevronnet Wood – Charnay loop from Marcy often have accessible parking in or near the starting village, making it convenient for cyclists arriving by car.