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Road cycling routes
France
Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Saint-Claude

Lac D'Ilay

The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac D'Ilay

4.6

(116)

2,608

riders

9

rides

Road cycling around Lac D'Ilay offers a diverse landscape shaped by glacial origins, featuring a network of no traffic road cycling routes. The region is characterized by its distinctive turquoise lakes, dramatic cliffs, and extensive forests within the Jura Mountains. Cyclists can navigate varied terrain, from lakeside paths to challenging climbs, with routes often providing panoramic views of the surrounding natural features. This area provides a compelling setting for road cycling, combining natural beauty with diverse topographical challenges.

Best no traffic road cycling routes around Lac D'Ilay

  • The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Pont-du-Navoy – Billaude Waterfall loop from La Chaux-des-Crotenay, a 46.3 miles (74.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 35 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through varied Jura landscapes.
  • Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Col de Saint-Sorlin (1,142 m) – Chaux-Neuve loop from La Chaumusse - Fort-du-Plasne, a moderate 35.2 miles (56.7 km) path. This route includes a notable mountain pass and offers expansive views of the Jura region.
  • Local road cyclists also love the Lac de Narlay – View of Lac de Narlay loop from Le Frasnois, a 28.3 miles (45.5 km) trail leading through the picturesque lake district, often completed in about 2 hours 16 minutes.
  • Road cycling around Lac D'Ilay is defined by glacial lakes, dense forests, and panoramic viewpoints, with routes catering to various ability levels. The region's terrain includes both relatively flat sections and more demanding ascents.
  • The routes in Lac D'Ilay are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 2,600 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lac D'Ilay's varied terrain.

Last updated: July 7, 2026

4.5

(2)

33

riders

#1.

Lac de Narlay – View of Lac de Narlay loop from Le Frasnois

45.5km

02:16

670m

660m

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

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Moderate

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.

Moderate
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Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Moderate

Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Hard

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

Easy
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Popular around Lac D'Ilay

Traffic-free bike rides around Lac D'Ilay

Traffic-free bike rides around Lac D'Ilay

Tips from the Community

Cricri Marylene
June 23, 2026, View of Lac de Narlay

Very nice outing early in the morning

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The waterfall can be reached via several staircases, approximately 200 steps.

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Kristian
September 1, 2025, Petit Lac Maclu

The smaller of the two Maclu Lakes, with an easy hiking trail along its shore.

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Lacs de Maclu are two adjacent lakes in the western part of the French Jura, in the Jura department of Franche-Comté. They are located at an elevation of 779 m in a depression in the High Jura, in the region of the Five Lakes near Le Frasnois, about 12 km south of Champagnole. The Petit Maclu, located to the northeast, has an area of 5 hectares, a length of about 500 m, and a maximum width of about 120 m. Its greatest depth is 11 m. It lies entirely within the municipal territory of Le Frasnois.

Translated by Google

6

0

It is not a Linden but a Sequoia.

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Easy, shaded path, perfect for cooling off in hot weather.

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Just off the road worth a stop to see all the foot prints.

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Watch out for Ice in the winter, can you find the secret waterfall ?

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Lac D'Ilay?

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Lac D'Ilay, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore the stunning Jura landscape.

What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in the Lac D'Ilay region?

The best time for road cycling around Lac D'Ilay is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural beauty of the lakes, forests, and waterfalls is at its peak. Summer offers warm conditions, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage.

Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?

Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. One excellent option is the Dinosaur Tracks of Loulle – Loulle loop from Le Vaudioux, which is approximately 14 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a gentle introduction to the region's beauty.

What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes near Lac D'Ilay?

The terrain around Lac D'Ilay offers a diverse experience. While some routes feature relatively flat sections, especially around the lakes, many include challenging climbs and rewarding descents characteristic of the Jura Mountains. You can expect a mix of rolling hills, forested paths, and open stretches with panoramic views.

Are there any viewpoints or natural features to look out for along the routes?

Absolutely! The region is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer stunning views of the glacial lakes, including Lac D'Ilay itself. Don't miss the Pic de l'Aigle for panoramic vistas of the Jura Mountains and even Mont Blanc on clear days, or the 4 Lakes panoramic viewpoint for a breathtaking 360-degree perspective. The Pont-du-Navoy – Billaude Waterfall loop from La Chaux-des-Crotenay will take you past impressive waterfalls.

Can I find circular no-traffic road cycling routes around Lac D'Ilay?

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Lac de Narlay – View of Lac de Narlay loop from Le Frasnois offers a moderate 45.5 km circular ride, perfect for experiencing the diverse landscapes.

What do other cyclists say about the no-traffic road cycling routes in Lac D'Ilay?

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Lac D'Ilay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 119 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning natural scenery, the tranquility of the car-free roads, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.

Are there any routes that pass by multiple lakes?

Yes, the region is known for its '4 Lakes' area. Routes like the View of Lac de Narlay – Petit Maclu Lake loop from Le Frasnois will guide you through this picturesque landscape, allowing you to experience the unique charm of several interconnected lakes.

Are there any more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation gain. The Pont-du-Navoy – Billaude Waterfall loop from La Chaux-des-Crotenay is a difficult 74.5 km route with over 1000 meters of ascent, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience through the Jura landscape.

Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?

Parking is generally available in the villages and towns near the starting points of these routes, such as Le Frasnois, La Chaux-des-Crotenay, or Le Vaudioux. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking areas to ensure convenient access to your chosen no-traffic cycling adventure.

Are there any routes that go through high mountain passes?

While the Jura Mountains may not have the highest alpine passes, they offer numerous rewarding climbs. The Col de Saint-Sorlin (1,142 m) – Chaux-Neuve loop from La Chaumusse - Fort-du-Plasne is a moderate route that takes you over the Col de Saint-Sorlin, providing a taste of mountain cycling with excellent views.

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