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France
Auvergne Rhône Alpes
Belley

Haut-Valromey

The best MTB trails around Haut-Valromey

4.3

(129)

858

riders

14

rides

Mountain biking around Haut-Valromey offers diverse landscapes, from the high points of the Grand Colombier to the peaceful, unspoilt landscapes of the Plateau de Retord. The region features a network of trails winding through forests, combes, and plateaus, with significant elevation changes. Mountain bikers can expect varied terrain, including accessible paths and challenging routes with substantial uphill gradients. This area is well-equipped for mountain biking, providing options for different skill levels.

Best mountain bike trails around Haut-Valromey

  • The most popular…

Last updated: May 15, 2026

4.6

(26)

146

riders

#1.

Plateau de Retord – Terments Cross loop from Hotonnes

30.5km

03:00

660m

660m

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard

Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.

Hard
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Popular around Haut-Valromey

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Gems of the Ain — MTB routes amidst natural beauty

Mountain Biking Collection by

Ain Tourisme

Tips from the Community

Julien Harté
April 27, 2026, Ferme de Retord

The Retord farm, located on the plateau of the same name, allows you to discover local products and offers a pleasant stop in a relaxing natural setting.

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A 10 km climb from the small roundabout in Châtillon, it's more like 14 km from the Nantua road or the center of Bellegarde. The gradient is fairly steady, ranging from 5.5% to 7.2%, with about ten small steep sections at +8.5%. Very quiet, with very few cars. The road is generally in good condition, but nothing more. There are some beautiful views along the way.

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Chapel at the foot of the cliff with fresh water source (non-consumable)

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The Thurignin Gorges are a canyon in France carved by the Séran River, near the hamlet of Thurignin in the commune of Belmont-Luthézieu. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gorges_de_Thurignin

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The Col de Bérentin connects the Valserine Valley to the Retord Plateau, passing through the beautiful Jura forests. Its ascent is gradual and the road is little traveled.

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A truly beautiful site, well worth the detour!

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Romain
February 16, 2025, Gorges de Thurignin

Magnificent "water canyon" dug into the rock by the liquid element...

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Path between meadows and forests in the south of the Plateau de Retord. Different sections located to the north of the road leading to the Col de Richemond offer very beautiful panoramas of the Valromey valley to the south.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Haut-Valromey?

Yes, Haut-Valromey offers a few easier mountain bike trails. For instance, there are 2 easy routes available, providing a good starting point for those new to mountain biking or looking for a more relaxed ride through the varied landscapes of the region.

What kind of challenging mountain bike trails are available for experienced riders?

Experienced riders will find plenty of challenging options in Haut-Valromey. There are 5 difficult routes, some featuring significant elevation gains, such as the It stings! – Plans d'Hotonnes Station loop from Hotonnes, which includes over 950 meters of ascent. The region's diverse topography, including the Grand Colombier and dramatic gorges, provides demanding terrain.

What natural attractions can I discover along the mountain bike trails in Haut-Valromey?

Mountain biking in Haut-Valromey allows you to explore several natural attractions. You might encounter the dramatic Thurignin Gorges, the picturesque Lake Nantua, or the beautiful Cerveyrieu Waterfall. The region is also known for its extensive forests and plateaus like the Plateau de Retord.

Are there circular mountain bike routes in Haut-Valromey?

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Haut-Valromey are circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Panorama of Crêt du Nu – Terments Cross loop from Hotonnes, which offers a moderate ride through scenic areas.

What are the typical distances of mountain bike trails in Haut-Valromey?

The mountain bike trails in Haut-Valromey vary significantly in distance. You can find shorter routes, such as the Panorama of Crêt du Nu – Terments Cross loop from Hotonnes at around 15.6 km, to much longer, more demanding trails like the Gorges de Thurignin – Plans d'Hotonnes Station loop from Hotonnes, which spans over 93 km.

What kind of elevation gain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Haut-Valromey?

The elevation gain on mountain bike trails in Haut-Valromey varies widely, reflecting the region's diverse topography. You can expect anything from moderate climbs of around 350 meters on easier routes to significant ascents exceeding 2,500 meters on difficult trails, such as the Gorges de Thurignin – Plans d'Hotonnes Station loop from Hotonnes.

What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Haut-Valromey?

The komoot community highly rates mountain biking in Haut-Valromey, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 120 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the peaceful Plateau de Retord to the challenging ascents of the Grand Colombier, and the well-maintained network of trails winding through forests and combes.

Is the Plateau de Retord a good area for mountain biking?

Yes, the Plateau de Retord is an excellent area for mountain biking. This southern part of the Jura Mountains is characterized by its peaceful, unspoilt landscapes, featuring combes, forests, and charming villages. Trails like the Terments Cross – Plateau de Retord loop from La Chapelle offer extensive rides through this scenic plateau.

Are there any events or special activities for mountain bikers in Haut-Valromey?

Haut-Valromey is known for hosting mountain biking events, such as "La Valromeysanne." This event features multiple routes of varying lengths and difficulties, including discovery routes. You can find more information about upcoming events on the local tourism websites, for example, at ain-tourisme.com.

Can I rent mountain bikes, including electric bikes, in the Haut-Valromey region?

Yes, bike rental services are available in the Haut-Valromey region, including options for electric bikes. This makes it convenient for visitors who don't bring their own equipment or wish to try an e-bike for tackling some of the more challenging ascents.

What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Haut-Valromey?

The best time for mountain biking in Haut-Valromey is typically from spring through autumn when the weather is mild and trails are clear of snow. The diverse landscapes, from plateaus to forests, offer pleasant riding conditions during these seasons. Winter mountain biking is possible but may be limited by snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.

Are there any specific landmarks or points of interest to look out for while mountain biking?

Beyond natural features, you might encounter interesting landmarks. For instance, the Old bridge of Seyssel is a notable structure, and the town of Seyssel itself offers a glimpse into the local heritage. The region's topography also includes dramatic karst cliffs and the highest point in Bugey, the Grand Colombier, offering panoramic views.

Most popular routes around Haut-Valromey

Road Cycling Routes around Haut-Valromey

Most popular attractions around Haut-Valromey

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