The best traffic-free bike rides around Deux-Verges

The trails around Deux-Verges are nestled within the Cantal department, offering a unique experience due to the region's volcanic origins. You'll find dramatic landscapes, expansive views from the Cantal massif, and wild plateaus like Cézallier and Limon, often compared to 'Mongolian steppes.' These routes provide a true immersion in nature, far from traffic.

Our guide features 3 challenging no-traffic gravel bike routes around Deux-Verges. These routes are designed to offer significant elevation gains and distances, perfect for those seeking a demanding ride in serene surroundings.

The routes currently listed in this guide are rated as 'difficult,' featuring significant distances and elevation changes. While the region offers diverse terrain, these specific no-traffic routes are better suited for experienced gravel bikers. However, the wider Cantal region does have more accessible options for discovery circuits.

You can expect a varied mix of surfaces, including rolling gravel tracks, less-frequented roads, and some technical sections that add to the challenge without being overly discouraging. The routes often combine gravel roads with tarmac sections, traversing dense woodlands, plateaus, and ancient glacial valleys.

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, including Cantal, is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter can bring snow, making some higher elevation trails impassable, but lower routes might still be accessible for the adventurous.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel routes featured in this guide are circular. For example, you can explore the Fournels Village – Saint-Chély-d'Apcher loop from Fournels, the Saint-Chély-d'Apcher – Fournels Village loop from Fournels, or the Fournels Village – Gournier bridge loop from Fournels, all starting and ending in Fournels.

Due to the remote and traffic-free nature of these trails, you have a good chance of spotting local wildlife. Common sightings include cows grazing in pastures, deer, roe deer, and foxes, especially in the quieter, wooded areas and plateaus.

While the routes themselves offer stunning natural beauty, you can also find cultural points of interest nearby. Consider visiting the charming village of Saint Urcize or exploring Fournels Village, which serves as a starting point for several tours. The Gorges of the Bes also offer dramatic scenery.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the pure, unspoilt beauty of the Auvergne region, the sense of calm and relaxation found on the quiet country lanes, and the challenging yet rewarding nature of the routes.

Many of the routes, such as the loops starting from Fournels, typically have parking available in or near the village. It's advisable to check specific starting points for detailed parking information before your ride.

While the routes themselves are remote and traffic-free, you'll find opportunities for refreshments in the villages you pass through or near the starting points, such as Fournels. The Cantal region is also known for its local cuisine and cheeses, offering a chance to taste regional specialties.