4.4
(161)
4,630
riders
477
rides
Road cycling routes around Varennes-Lès-Mâcon traverse a varied landscape, from the flat plains of the Bresse to the rolling hills of the Beaujolais mountains and the Mâconnais vineyards. The region is characterized by undulating roads through scenic vineyards and paths along the Saône River. Cyclists can encounter significant landmarks such as the iconic Roche de Solutré, which offers panoramic views. This diverse topography provides a range of road cycling experiences.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3.9
(7)
31
riders
32.4km
01:54
750m
750m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(5)
240
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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4.7
(3)
45
riders
50.8km
02:39
860m
860m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
29
riders
51.8km
02:56
1,140m
1,140m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
46
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The Rock of Solutré is a world-famous, 493-meter-high limestone rock in the south of the Burgundy region. It is located amidst the picturesque vineyards of the municipality of Solutré-Pouilly. The region is officially designated as a Grand Site de France. The hike to the summit is easy to moderate and very doable for families. It takes about 1 hour for the entire loop (approx. 4 kilometers round trip). The elevation gain is around 100 to 140 meters from the official parking lot on well-maintained paths with information panels, although there are many steps.
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The Solutré Rock is a world-famous, 493-meter-high limestone cliff in the south of the Burgundy region. It is situated amidst the picturesque vineyards of the municipality of Solutré-Pouilly. The region is officially designated as a Grand Site de France. The hike to the summit is easy to moderate and well-suited for families. It takes about 1 hour for the entire circular route (approx. 4 kilometers round trip). The elevation gain is around 100 to 140 meters from the official parking lot, on well-maintained paths with information panels, although there are many steps.
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Although the pass is located in France and is not extremely high, its name translates to "Siberia Pass". The name goes back to the often very cold, snow-rich winds and the harsh weather conditions in winter.
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The Château de Saint-Point (also known as Château de Lamartine) in the Burgundy region originally dates from the 12th and 14th centuries. From 1820, it served as the residence for the famous French poet and politician Alphonse de Lamartine. Lamartine had the castle restored in the Anglo-Gothic style, which gives it its distinctive, romantic appearance with the round corner towers. It is a listed monument and can be visited as a museum.
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The lake is located in the Doubs department in the French region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté at an altitude of around 850 meters. After Lac du Bourget and Lac d'Annecy, it is the third largest natural lake in France. It is a very popular lake for swimming in the summer and offers opportunities for kayaking, windsurfing, and stand-up paddling. There is also a popular hiking trail around the entire lake, approximately 20 kilometers long.
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The Col de Gerbet (612 m) is an idyllic mountain pass in the French wine-growing region of Beaujolais. Depending on the starting point, various roads with little traffic lead up to the pass via the D137. From Juliénas (south-east approach): This route is 7.3 kilometers long. It overcomes 342 meters of altitude with a steady, moderate gradient of 4.7% on average. The road winds through shady forest sections. From La Croix Blanche (west approach): A tougher variant 4.5 kilometers long. Here you conquer 270 meters of altitude with an average gradient of 6% and ramps of up to 11%.
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The Col du Bois Clair is a 396-meter high French mountain pass in the Massif Central. It is located in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in the Saône-et-Loire department and lies within the municipality of Sologny. The pass summit is crossed by the departmental road D17. Beneath the pass runs the Tunnel du Bois Clair, a former railway tunnel. At 1.6 kilometers long, it is the longest tunnel in France accessible to bicycles. Today it serves as part of the Voie Verte cycle path, but is closed from October to April to protect hibernating bats.
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The Castle of Berzé-le-Châtel (also known as Forteresse de Berzé) is the largest and best-preserved medieval castle in Southern Burgundy. The complex dates back to a 10th-century castrum and was strategically built on a rocky outcrop to protect the nearby powerful Abbey of Cluny. The fortress consists of three ring walls and features 13 towers (including two keeps/donjons) as well as an imposing gatehouse. The heart of the interior is a remarkable Carolingian chapel.
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The region offers a diverse landscape for road cycling. You'll find routes traversing the flat plains of the Bresse, the rolling hills of the Beaujolais mountains, and the picturesque Mâconnais vineyards. The Saône River also provides largely flat and accessible paths, such as sections of the Voie Bleue, ideal for leisurely rides. This varied topography means you can choose between gentle rides and more challenging ascents.
Yes, Varennes-lès-Mâcon offers routes suitable for various fitness levels, including easier options. The paths along the Saône River are generally flat and accessible, making them perfect for leisurely rides or family outings. Komoot lists over 60 easy road cycling routes in the area, ensuring there are plenty of choices for those seeking a less strenuous experience.
Absolutely. For experienced riders looking for a challenge, the Monts du Beaujolais to the south offer opportunities for more strenuous climbs and descents. Routes like the Col de la Grange du Bois – Col de Gerbet loop from Mâcon-Loché-TGV feature significant elevation gains, providing a rewarding experience for those with good fitness. There are over 150 difficult road cycling routes available in the region.
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. A prominent landmark is the iconic Roche de Solutré, which offers spectacular panoramic views over the Mâconnais vineyards. You can also find routes that pass by the Vergisson Rock, or offer views of Mâcon and the Saône from the François Mitterand bridge. Cycling through the Mâconnais vineyards themselves provides a beautiful, undulating backdrop for your ride.
Yes, many road cycling routes around Varennes-lès-Mâcon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include The Chateau de Chasselas - loop from the outskirts of Macon, which passes a historic château, and the Roche de Vergisson – Lake Saint-Point loop from Mâcon-Loché-TGV, offering diverse scenery.
The region is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. The Mâconnais vineyards are particularly beautiful during these seasons. While specific weather conditions can vary, the mild climate of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté makes it an enjoyable destination for much of the year, allowing cyclists to experience the diverse landscapes in comfortable conditions.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from scenic vineyard routes to challenging climbs, and the opportunity to discover iconic landmarks like the Roche de Solutré. The well-maintained paths along the Saône River are also frequently highlighted for their accessibility and beauty.
There are over 500 road cycling routes available around Varennes-lès-Mâcon on Komoot. This extensive network offers a wide variety of options, catering to different preferences and fitness levels, from easy rides to very difficult challenges.
Yes, several attractions enhance the cycling experience. Beyond the Roche de Solutré, which also has a prehistory museum at its foot, you might encounter the Cormoranche Lake Leisure Center, offering a pleasant stop. The area's rich history means you can also traverse ancient paths, adding a cultural dimension to your rides.
Many routes, particularly those starting from larger towns or popular attractions, will have designated parking areas. For example, routes originating from Mâcon-Loché-TGV often provide convenient starting points with parking access. It's advisable to check the specific route details on Komoot for information on parking availability at the trailhead or nearby.
Varennes-lès-Mâcon is well-connected, and some routes are accessible via public transport, particularly those starting from Mâcon-Loché-TGV. This allows for convenient access to various cycling loops. For detailed information on public transport options and their suitability for carrying bicycles, it's best to consult local transport schedules.
Yes, as you cycle through the Mâconnais vineyards and charming villages, you'll find opportunities to stop for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near small towns where cafes, bakeries, and local eateries are available. It's a great way to experience the local culture and refuel during your ride.


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