4.5
(267)
6,144
riders
113
rides
Road cycling around Le Bessat offers diverse terrain within the Pilat Natural Regional Park, characterized by extensive forests and significant elevation changes. Situated at an altitude of 1170 meters, the area features mountainous landscapes with peaks over 1200 meters. Cyclists can experience challenging climbs and rewarding panoramic views across the Rhône Valley.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
4.5
(11)
211
riders
45.0km
02:37
1,050m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.8
(4)
174
riders
30.6km
01:39
610m
610m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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5.0
(1)
31
riders
40.2km
02:00
650m
650m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
29
riders
34.4km
01:54
740m
740m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
24
riders
37.3km
02:08
840m
840m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Magnificent view towards the south of the snow-covered Pilat.
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magnificent with a small, rather steep passage (good shoes recommended)
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good elevation gain to the castle.
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Restaurant/café in Croix de Chabouret. The blueberry tart is excellent.
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Rochetaillée Castle is a castle in Saint-Étienne (in Rochetaillée) in the Loire department. It is listed as a historical monument by decree of 5 April 19301. Its date of construction remains unknown but we find at least its trace in the literature in 1173. Indeed, the permutation of 1173 between the Count of Forez and the Church of Lyon indicates that whoever will have the Rochetaillée castle will owe homage and loyalty to the Count2. Situated on a rocky peak that makes it inaccessible to the north, the castle was composed of four towers, three of which remain today.
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A historic castle nestled in a magnificent natural setting. An enriching hike for history buffs.
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There are over 20 road cycling routes around Le Bessat, offering diverse experiences within the Pilat Natural Regional Park. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
Road cycling in Le Bessat features mountainous terrain with significant elevation changes, extensive forests, and open plateaus. The area is situated at an altitude of 1170 meters, offering climbs comparable to some Alpine resorts and rewarding panoramic views across the Rhône Valley.
While Le Bessat is known for its challenging terrain, there are 12 moderate routes available. These routes navigate through wooded landscapes and open plateaus, providing a less strenuous option than the more difficult climbs. For example, the Roadbike loop from Le Bessat is a moderate 21.6-mile path.
Le Bessat is an excellent destination for challenging road cycling, with 8 difficult routes. These often feature significant ascents and high-altitude passes. A notable difficult route is the Rochetaillée Castle – Chaubouret Cross loop from Le Bessat, a 28.0-mile trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain.
Many road cycling routes pass through or near significant natural features and landmarks. You can encounter the Col de l'Œillon (1233 m), offering stunning views, or the Gouffre d'Enfer Dam. The routes also traverse the diverse landscapes of the Pilat Natural Regional Park, characterized by forests and plateaus.
Yes, the region is rich in viewpoints. From passes like the Col de la Croix de Chaubouret (1201 m) and the Col de l'Œillon (1233 m), cyclists can enjoy panoramic views stretching across the Rhône Valley and to the distant Alps. The 'Crêts du Pilat' also offer exceptional vistas.
Yes, many road cycling routes around Le Bessat are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Chaubouret Cross – Col de l'Œillon (1233 m) loop from Le Bessat and the Roadbike loop from Le Bessat.
The best time for road cycling in Le Bessat is typically from spring through autumn. The high altitude means that winter can bring snow and colder temperatures, making some routes less accessible. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather and lush landscapes, while autumn provides beautiful foliage.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 120 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging climbs, the rewarding panoramic views from high passes, and the serene, preserved environment within the Pilat Natural Regional Park.
Yes, some routes incorporate historical sites. For instance, the Rochetaillée Castle – Chaubouret Cross loop from Le Bessat passes by the impressive Rochetaillée Castle, offering a cultural point of interest amidst the natural beauty.
Le Bessat, aiming for the 'Village Sport Nature' label, offers various amenities for visitors. You can find accommodations, restaurants, and shops within the village, making it a convenient base for your road cycling adventures in the Pilat Natural Regional Park.
Absolutely. The region is characterized by numerous mountain passes. Routes like the Chaubouret Cross – Col de l'Œillon (1233 m) loop from Le Bessat specifically highlight the inclusion of multiple significant climbs and passes, providing a comprehensive challenge for avid cyclists.


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