The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Jean-Des-Ollières
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Gravel biking around Saint-Jean-Des-Ollières offers access to the diverse landscapes of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. The area is characterized by extensive forests, undulating valleys, and plateaus, providing varied terrain for no traffic gravel bike trails. Cyclists can explore a network of forest tracks and small roads, often winding through a bocage environment of woodlands, hedgerows, and small streams. This region provides a setting for gravel biking away from main roads, with routes that…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
3
riders
36.5km
02:48
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
61.2km
04:51
1,310m
1,310m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Saint-Jean-Des-Ollières
Tips from the Community
Small road pass (altitude 943 m) which, like the Toutée pass, connects St-Amant-Roche-Savine and Cunlhat, but via a small road with no traffic.
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Superb village, with its imposing castles! 🏰.
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Medieval town center which has preserved its authenticity, its cobbled streets, where it is good to stroll and discover beautiful little shops full of charm.
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Erected on the line forming the edge of the Livradois plateau, a veritable western balcony, the Deux-Frères belvedere occupies one of the highest sites in the commune of Echandelys, at some 1087 meters above sea level. Occupied by an orientation table set up in 1972 by the Intercommunal Syndicate of Tourist and Economic Development of Livradois, it allows a view over the entire Limagne valley and the main geographical formations of Auvergne, from Plomb from Cantal to the Chaîne des Puys, recently listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, via the Sancy massif. Several tables allow you to have a pleasant picnic and recently installed wooden benches encourage you to enjoy the view during a pleasant break.
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Billom is a medieval town located in the heart of the Auvergne region. You can admire the beautiful half-timbered houses, the cobbled streets and the impressive collegiate church of Saint-Cerneuf. You can also discover the rich heritage of this city, which was once a thriving commercial and cultural center. Don't forget to taste the local specialty, Billom garlic, which has a mild and sweet flavor.
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If you are looking for a picturesque stopover by bike, you can go to the panoramic view of the Notre-Dame de Roche plateau. This is a hilltop viewpoint that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, including the castles of Mauzun, Montmorin and Coppel, the Les Puys chain of volcanoes and the town of Clermont- Ferrand.
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If you're looking for a medieval cycling adventure, you could visit the Château de Coppel, a 13th century castle ruin perched on a volcanic rock in the Puy-de-Dôme department. You can admire the remains of the round tower, the vaulted rooms and the walls made of black basalt and white arkose.
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Montmorin Castle is a medieval castle in ruins that dates from the 12th century. From its ramparts, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the mountains, discover its ancient architecture and its history. The castle is open to visitors from July 1 to August 30, every day except Monday, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. You must book a guided tour in advance, in French or English, by contacting the guide on 06 80 75 24 98 or by email at guide@chateau-de-montmorin.fr. You can also visit the small museum located inside the castle, which displays weapons, tools, furniture and archaeological objects from different eras. Classified as a historic monument since 1985, the castle is a proud heritage of the Montmorin family of Saint-Hérem, one of the most powerful noble families in Auvergne. Don't miss this opportunity to discover a hidden gem of French culture and nature!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Jean-Des-Ollières?
The Livradois-Forez region, where Saint-Jean-Des-Ollières is located, offers a diverse gravel biking experience. You'll find a mix of forest tracks, quiet small roads, and undulating, sometimes steep, single tracks. The landscape features deep forests, valleys, and plateaus, providing varied surfaces and scenic views away from main roads.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, the routes listed in this guide are generally considered challenging, featuring significant elevation gains. For example, the Billom - medieval village – Château de Montmorin loop from Auzelles covers over 60 km with more than 1300 meters of elevation gain, offering a robust workout for advanced gravel bikers.
What are some notable natural features I might encounter on these trails?
You'll primarily ride through extensive forested areas, characterized by fir, beech, and oak groves. The region also features a rich bocage landscape with open fields and hedgerows, and numerous small streams like the Lagas. Keep an eye out for the unique basaltic scree at Pic de la Garde, an ecologically significant site.
Can I find any historical or cultural attractions along the no-traffic gravel routes?
Absolutely. The area is rich in history. You can explore sites like the medieval Château de Montmorin or the 16th-century Château de Lachaux. The charming Medieval Center of Billom is also accessible, offering a glimpse into the past with its half-timbered houses and collegiate church.
Are there any loop routes available for gravel biking in the area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Col de la Cabane – Cunlhat loop from Cunlhat and the Billom - medieval village – Mauzun Castle loop from Saint-Julien-de-Coppel, which are perfect for a full day's adventure.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking around Saint-Jean-Des-Ollières?
The region is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer is also suitable, especially for shaded forest routes. Winters can be cold and potentially snowy, making some trails less accessible for gravel biking.
What kind of wildlife might I see while gravel biking in the Livradois-Forez Park?
The extensive forests and tranquil environment provide a habitat for various animal species. You might spot diurnal and nocturnal raptors, as well as other forest creatures. The numerous streams also support diverse aquatic life, including amphibians and reptiles.
Are there options for parking at the trailheads for these no-traffic routes?
While specific parking details for each trailhead are best checked on the individual route pages, starting points like Cunlhat, Saint-Julien-de-Coppel, and Auzelles typically offer public parking options suitable for accessing the trails. Always verify local parking regulations before you go.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the gravel bike trails?
The region has charming villages that often feature local cafes and restaurants where you can refuel. While not directly on every trail, planning your route to pass through or near towns like Billom or other picturesque villages can provide opportunities for a break and a meal.
How long do the no-traffic gravel bike trails typically take to complete?
The duration varies significantly based on the route's length and elevation. For instance, routes like the View of Busseol castle – Pathway by the Allier River loop from Saint-Julien-de-Coppel can take around 3 hours and 15 minutes, while longer, more challenging loops might require 4 to 5 hours or more of riding time.
Are there any routes that offer views of castles or other landmarks?
Yes, several routes are designed to pass by significant landmarks. The Billom - medieval village – Château de Montmorin loop from Auzelles, for example, takes you past the historic Château de Montmorin, offering panoramic views from its ramparts. Another route, Billom - medieval village – Mauzun Castle loop from Saint-Julien-de-Coppel, includes the medieval village of Billom and Mauzun Castle.
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