The best traffic-free bike rides around Étang D'Entressen

Komoot features a selection of 2 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Étang D'Entressen. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.

The terrain around Étang D'Entressen is generally varied, combining flat sections across the Crau plain with gentle ascents. For example, the Tour de Cornillon – Old Miramas loop from Miramas features an elevation gain of around 395 meters over its 36 km, offering a moderate challenge. You'll encounter reed beds, riparian forests, and open steppe landscapes.

You can admire the 100-hectare Étang D'Entressen itself, with its extensive reed beds and riparian forests. On clear days, you'll get magnificent views of the Alpilles mountains. The area is also part of the unique Crau plain, Western Europe's only steppe biome. Keep an eye out for the historical La Tour de la Reine Jeanne, a 14th-century watchtower in Entressen.

The Mediterranean climate offers hot summers and mild winters, making spring and autumn ideal for cycling. During these seasons, the temperatures are pleasant, and the natural scenery is vibrant. While summer is also an option, be prepared for warmer conditions. Strong rainfall can occur in spring and autumn, and the Mistral wind can be quite strong, so checking the forecast is always recommended.

While the routes listed are generally rated as moderate, the flat sections of the Crau plain offer easier riding. The Forest Path Under Grans loop from Miramas is a good option, covering 25 km with a manageable 132 meters of elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride away from traffic.

Yes, both featured no-traffic routes are circular. The Forest Path Under Grans loop from Miramas and the Tour de Cornillon – Old Miramas loop from Miramas are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

Many routes, such as those starting from Miramas, offer convenient parking options in or near the town centers, allowing easy access to the start of your traffic-free cycling adventure. Specific parking details can often be found on the individual route pages on Komoot.

While the routes themselves prioritize a traffic-free experience, the nearby towns and villages like Entressen and Miramas offer various cafes and restaurants where you can refuel before or after your ride. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer stretches.

Étang D'Entressen is a natural zone of ecological interest (ZNIEFF) and a haven for wildlife. You might spot various bird species such as the European Roller, Western Marsh Harrier, Great Crested Grebe, and Common Kingfisher, especially around the reed beds. The lake is also home to fish and rare indigenous aquatic reptiles like the European pond turtle.

Beyond cycling, the area offers a range of outdoor activities. The Entressen Nautical Base provides water sports like sailing and windsurfing. Fishing is popular in the lake, and there are numerous hiking routes around the Étang. You can also explore the Parcours Sportif d'Entressen or visit 'La Grange,' a cultural center in Entressen.

The Crau plain is unique as the only steppe biome in Western Europe, offering vast, open landscapes and a distinct ecological environment. This provides a sense of solitude and immersion in nature, perfect for traffic-free road cycling. The plain is also known for the production of PDO Foin de Crau hay, irrigated by the historic Craponne canals, adding to the regional character you'll experience.

The area is highly rated by the Komoot community, with an average score of 4.12 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the routes, the unique natural landscapes of the Crau plain, and the distant views of the Alpilles mountains, making for a scenic and enjoyable ride away from cars.