The best traffic-free bike rides around Sinard

There are 8 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Sinard, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes are carefully selected to provide quiet roads and scenic views away from heavy vehicle traffic.

While most routes are rated moderate, the region is known for its diverse terrain. For a gentler introduction to the area's quiet roads, consider exploring sections of the Vercors Regional Natural Park, which offers routes winding through villages and meadows. All 8 routes in this guide are rated moderate or difficult, so beginners should assess their fitness carefully.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Sinard traverse diverse and stunning landscapes. You can expect well-maintained, generally quiet roads that wind through serene forest areas, dramatic gorges, towering limestone cliffs, and expansive high plateaus. The Vercors Regional Natural Park, a prominent feature of the region, is known for its unique limestone formations and varied elevation gains.

Many routes offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints. For example, the route Chemin des Cotes Martines – View of the Vercors Mountains loop from Saint-Martin-de-la-Cluze provides stunning vistas of the Vercors. You might also encounter views of the impressive Ebron Footbridge and Lake Monteynard-Avignonet on routes like Lac de Monteynard – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Treffort. The natural arch of La Pierre Percée also offers panoramic views of the Matheysine plateau.

Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gains. The Brion Bridge – Col de Cornillon (885 m) loop from Saint-Martin-de-la-Cluze is rated difficult, covering nearly 85 km with over 1800 meters of ascent. The broader Vercors area is known for challenging mountain passes, some even featured in the Tour de France.

The Vercors region, including Sinard, is generally best for road cycling from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the roads are clear. Winter cycling might be possible, but some higher passes could be closed or have icy conditions, so it's essential to check local conditions before heading out.

Many of the no-traffic routes around Sinard are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Treffort - La Mira Pier – Hydraulic dam wall loop from Treffort and the Monestier-de-Clermont – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Monestier-de-Clermont are excellent circular options that prioritize quiet roads.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Vercors, the well-maintained and quiet roads, and the diverse terrain that offers both challenging climbs and scenic descents. The sense of riding away from traffic is a frequently highlighted positive aspect.

Yes, several routes offer views of or pass near Lake Monteynard-Avignonet. The Lac de Monteynard – Collet of Sinard, 900 m loop from Treffort is a great option that takes you close to the lake, known for its turquoise waters and the impressive Himalayan footbridges.

The routes often pass through the Vercors Regional Natural Park, an area rich in flora and fauna. You might spot wild boar, deer, and various birds, including golden eagles and vultures. The landscape itself is a highlight, with deep gorges like Combe Laval and dramatic limestone cliffs providing a unique backdrop to your ride.

The routes vary in length and elevation. For instance, the Treffort - La Mira Pier – Hydraulic dam wall loop from Treffort is around 20 km with over 570 meters of elevation gain, while the more challenging Brion Bridge – Col de Cornillon (885 m) loop from Saint-Martin-de-la-Cluze extends to nearly 85 km with over 1800 meters of ascent. Most routes fall within the 20-30 km range with moderate elevation.