4.4
(32)
197
riders
27
rides
Gravel biking around La Tour-Du-Meix offers diverse landscapes, characterized by the vast Lake Vouglans, dense forests, and dramatic cliffs. The region's mid-mountain environment features unique Jurassic geology, providing varied terrain for gravel cyclists. Routes often combine paved sections with unpaved paths, forest lanes, and stony tracks. This area is ideal for exploring quiet cycling routes away from traffic.
Last updated: May 25, 2026
3.3
(3)
38
riders
45.4km
03:20
710m
710m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
27
riders
29.3km
02:05
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
17
riders
40.2km
02:33
580m
580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
riders
39.9km
02:42
710m
710m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Saut de la Saisse is a waterfall in France located in the Jura massif, at the point where the Ain river flows into the Vouglans reservoir at Pont-de-Poitte and Patornay, between Lons-le-Saunier and Clairvaux-les-Lacs. A "marmite du diable", "marmite de géant" or "marmite glaciaire" in Switzerland (or simply "marmite" or "chaudron") is a more or less cylindrical natural cavity carved into the rock by ancient, generally torrential watercourses, carrying pebbles or gravel, which promotes swirling erosion (a phenomenon called "marmitage").
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Climbed it today (17-8-25); it's open, and there are signs along the road showing your progress. Traffic is quiet, and a beautiful green climb, especially further on.
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Classified as 3rd category, the Col de la Joux was crossed during the 8th stage of the 2017 Tour De France!
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Unfortunately the stones are not always easy to see, today I had a lot of water.
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Great view of the Ain, this is where the Lac de Vouglans begins. When the water level is high, the stones are of course not so easy to see.
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The Saint-Nithier church in Clairvaux-les-Lacs is a Romanesque style church with a double-decker dome bell tower dedicated to Saint Nithier. It is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and closed on Mondays. Masses are not very frequent, if you want to see one, it is better to consult the schedule here: https://theodia.org/fr?place=6327
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There are over 20 no-traffic gravel bike trails around La Tour-Du-Meix, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are specifically curated to keep you away from busy roads, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning Jura landscape.
The no-traffic gravel trails around La Tour-Du-Meix feature a diverse terrain, typical of the Jura region. You'll encounter a mix of forest paths, unpaved tracks, and some stony sections, often with significant elevation changes. This mid-mountain environment provides a good challenge, with most routes rated as 'difficult' due to climbs and technical sections.
Yes, you can find several longer no-traffic gravel routes. For example, the Vouglans Dam – View of Lake Vouglans loop from Pont-de-Poitte covers over 66 km with more than 1000 meters of elevation gain, offering a substantial ride through varied landscapes.
Absolutely. Many of the no-traffic gravel routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Lac de Clairvaux-les-Lacs – Pyle Bridge loop from Clairvaux-les-Lacs, which is a 45 km loop offering diverse scenery.
The region is rich in natural beauty. You'll frequently encounter the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Vouglans. Keep an eye out for viewpoints like La Fratte Viewpoint and the View of Lac de Vouglans. The monumental Pyle Bridge, spanning the lake, also offers spectacular panoramic views.
While many routes in this guide are rated 'difficult' due to elevation and terrain, some sections or shorter loops around Lake Vouglans might be suitable for families with older, experienced children. Always check the route details for distance, elevation, and surface type to ensure it matches your family's capabilities. The focus on 'no traffic' makes them safer, but the physical demands remain.
The best time for gravel biking in La Tour-Du-Meix is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are in good condition. Summer offers warm temperatures perfect for enjoying Lake Vouglans, while spring and autumn provide beautiful foliage and cooler riding conditions. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Parking is generally available in the villages and towns surrounding Lake Vouglans, such as Pont-de-Poitte, Maisod, or Clairvaux-les-Lacs, which serve as common starting points for many routes. For instance, the View of the Ain at Pont-de-Poitte – Route d'Étival loop from Pont-de-Poitte starts directly from Pont-de-Poitte, where you can usually find parking.
Yes, several routes provide views of the Ain River, particularly around Pont-de-Poitte where the river feeds into Lake Vouglans. The View of the Ain at Pont-de-Poitte is a specific highlight you can incorporate into your ride, and routes like the View of the Ain at Pont-de-Poitte – Pyle Bridge loop from Maisod will take you past these scenic spots.
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in La Tour-Du-Meix, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Vouglans, the quiet, traffic-free forest paths, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Jura landscape.
Many routes are centered around Lake Vouglans, offering continuous views of its vibrant waters. The Stunning view of the lake – View of Lake Vouglans loop from Boissia is a prime example, designed to showcase the lake's beauty and surrounding cliffs.


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