The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac Des Combes

There are over 20 no-traffic road cycling routes around Lac Des Combes, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring there's something for every road cyclist looking for quiet roads.

The region offers diverse terrain, from the dramatic gorges and cliff-edge roads of the Vercors Massif, like the famous Cirque de Combe Laval, to the challenging mountain passes of the Chartreuse and Belledonne Massifs. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, winding roads through dense woodlands, picturesque valleys, and high-altitude lakes, often with expansive views of prominent peaks.

While many routes in the broader 'Combes' regions feature significant climbs, there are a few easier options available. For instance, the area around Saint-Junien-Les-Combes offers routes with manageable elevation gains around lakes like Saint-Pardoux, suitable for a good fitness level. Within this guide, you'll find 2 routes rated as easy, 16 as moderate, and 3 as difficult.

The region is renowned for its spectacular scenery. The Aubusson Clock Tower – Terrade Bridge loop from Aubusson offers beautiful views, while the broader Vercors Massif is famous for its 'vertigo-inducing cliffhanger section' at Cirque de Combe Laval. Routes through the Chartreuse and Belledonne Massifs also provide stunning vistas of alpine forests, verdant pastures, and rocky summits.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Diamonds of the Creuse – Church of Magnat-l'Étrange loop from Felletin is a challenging circular route, and the Terrade Bridge – Château de Blessac loop from Aubusson offers a moderate option.

The best time for road cycling is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and mountain passes are clear of snow. Summer offers warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide vibrant foliage and fewer crowds. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for higher-altitude routes.

While cycling, you'll pass through charming towns and natural wonders. The Aubusson Clock Tower – Terrade Bridge loop from Aubusson takes you past the historic Aubusson Clock Tower. The region is also rich in natural beauty, with picturesque lakes like Lac du Crozet and Lac Blanc in the Belledonne Massif, and the dramatic geological formations of the Vercors Massif.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes, the challenge of the mountain passes, and the tranquility of the no-traffic roads. The panoramic views from high-altitude sections, especially in areas like the Vercors and Chartreuse, are frequently highlighted as unforgettable experiences.

While many routes in the French Alps regions of 'Combes' are challenging, areas like Saint-Junien-Les-Combes offer more moderate routes around lakes that could be suitable for families with some cycling experience. For very young children, dedicated greenways or shorter, flatter sections might be more appropriate, though these are not the primary focus of this guide on 'no-traffic' road cycling.

Many of the routes start from towns or villages that offer public parking. For example, routes like the Aubusson Clock Tower – Terrade Bridge loop begin in Aubusson, where parking facilities are available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for parking information before your ride.

Yes, many routes pass through or near small towns and villages where you can find cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. These provide excellent opportunities to refuel and experience local hospitality. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify potential stops along the way.