The best traffic-free bike rides around Hauts-De-Bienne

Hauts-de-Bienne, nestled in the Jura Mountains, offers a fantastic network for gravel biking. This guide features 18 dedicated no-traffic gravel routes, with an even split of moderate and difficult options to suit various skill levels. The broader Jura region is known as a 'Gravel bike heaven' with over 2,000 km of itineraries.

You'll encounter a diverse range of terrain, from forest paths and dirt tracks to winding roads that traverse between lakes, waterfalls, and canyons. The region's landscape includes plateaus, panoramic viewpoints, and the scenic Bienne Valley, ensuring a constantly engaging experience away from traffic.

Yes, the region is home to a significant portion of the Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) gravel variant. One notable route is the Grande Traversée du Jura – gravel version, offering over 100 km of challenging, traffic-free riding through the stunning Jura landscape.

The trails often lead through areas of outstanding natural beauty. You might pass by picturesque mountain lakes such as Lac des Rousses or the tranquil Abbey Lake. The region is also known for its deep gorges, forests, and numerous lookouts offering breathtaking panoramas.

Absolutely. Many routes are designed as loops, perfect for day excursions. For example, the Les Rousses – Lake des Rousses loop from Les Rousses offers a moderate 24 km ride, while the Lake des Rousses – Lake des Rousses loop from Bois-d'Amont is a similar moderate option, both providing scenic, traffic-free experiences around the lake.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Hauts-de-Bienne, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Riders often praise the quiet, car-free paths, the stunning natural scenery, and the variety of trails suitable for different fitness levels.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. The Chapelle-des-Bois – Chapelle-des-Bois loop from Gare de Saint-Laurent-en-Grandvaux is a demanding 74 km ride with significant elevation gain, offering a rewarding experience through the Jura landscape.

While many routes are remote, some pass near villages or specific points of interest. For instance, the Les Pralets restaurant is a highlight in the area, and various huts like La Frasse Chalet or Cabane de Rochefort can be found, offering potential rest stops. It's always wise to pack sufficient supplies, especially on longer routes.

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the best conditions for gravel biking in Hauts-de-Bienne. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the trails are clear of snow, allowing full access to the diverse terrain and scenic views. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Given Hauts-de-Bienne's proximity to the Swiss border and its location within the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, many trails offer panoramic views that can include glimpses of Switzerland. The region is dotted with lookouts such as Bernard Roche and Morez belvédère, providing exceptional vistas over the valleys and mountains.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, the region's extensive network includes paths that are less technical and have gentler gradients, making them suitable for families or those new to gravel biking. Look for routes around the lakes, which often feature flatter, well-maintained gravel paths, such as the loops around Lac des Rousses.