The best cycling routes around Les Noës
4.5
(25)
414
riders
91
rides
Touring cycling routes around Les Noës, located in the Loire department of the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region, offer diverse landscapes for exploration. The area features rolling hills, varied vegetation, and quiet country roads, providing an immersive experience of the French countryside. Routes often provide views of natural features like the Plateau de la Verrerie and connect to broader cycling networks such as the Loire à Vélo greenway near Roanne. The terrain includes both gentle gradients and more challenging ascents, catering to…
Last updated: May 23, 2026
21
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
15
riders
36.6km
02:41
770m
780m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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14
riders
39.8km
02:56
890m
890m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
19
riders
30.8km
02:36
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
riders
49.2km
03:37
1,120m
1,120m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A very nice and pleasant pass with several climbs more or less accessible depending on the level and distance. Each side offers its share of landscapes and small villages. If you want to climb it for the beauty of the landscapes, I recommend the ascent via Les Noës or via Charrier, and for those seeking a difficult climb, Charrier also serves as the hardest side.
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A long, steady climb. Almost no cars, wide roads and beautiful surroundings! Hard to find a coffee or lunch place though.
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At this sign go straight ahead I turned left and that was a big mistake
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The Glassworks Plateau is located at an altitude of 1,015 meters. It is a large open plateau in the Magdalen Mountains. The landscape is wild and relatively unspoiled.
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One of the beautiful passes in the area. Little traffic
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From this place, located just before the true highest point of the plateau, one enjoys an unobstructed view of the Roannais, the Alps and the regions of Auvergne.
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If you are looking for a hiking adventure in a unique and wild landscape, you should visit the Verrerie plateau, a natural site protected by Natura 2000. This plateau is the last open moor of the Monts de la Madeleine, and it is home to rare and diverse flora and fauna in its bog, which dates back to 4600 BC. A wooden walkway will allow you to enter the protected area without harming the environment. From this plateau, you will have a breathtaking view of the Roannais, the Alps and the Auvergne. In the past, glassmakers burned all the beech trees to melt the silica. The Plateau de la Verrerie is a place where nature and history meet, and where you can experience a different hike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Les Noës?
There are over 90 touring cycling routes around Les Noës, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 23 reviews.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Les Noës?
The terrain around Les Noës features diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, varied vegetation, and quiet country roads. You'll find routes with both gentle gradients and more challenging ascents, particularly in areas like the Plateau de la Verrerie.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 6 easy touring cycling routes around Les Noës. While many routes involve hilly terrain, you can find paths that are less demanding. For a moderate option with scenic views, consider the View of Briennon Marina – Briennon marina loop from Renaison, which is 30.8 miles (49.6 km) long.
What natural features or viewpoints can I discover along the cycling routes?
Many routes offer views of natural features such as the Plateau de la Verrerie, known for its varied vegetation. You can also find highlights like the Saint-Vincent Rock, the Pisserotte Waterfall, and the Rouchain Dam Lake. The Saint-Nicolas-des-Biefs Municipal Forest also offers a pleasant cycling environment.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Les Noës are designed as loops. For example, the Plateau de la Verrerie – Routing loop from Saint-Nicolas-des-Biefs is a popular circular route that takes you through varied landscapes.
What historical or cultural attractions are accessible by bike from Les Noës?
Within a reasonable cycling distance, you can explore several historical and cultural sites. These include the medieval castle in Chateldon, the Renaissance-style Château de la Palice in Lapalisse, and the 'Most Beautiful Village' of Semur-en-Brionnais. The historic center of Thiers and the spa town of Vichy are also notable destinations.
How do local touring cyclists rate the routes around Les Noës?
The touring cycling routes around Les Noës are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Over 373 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the quiet country roads and diverse scenery.
Is it possible to connect to larger cycling networks from Les Noës?
Yes, Les Noës is located in the Loire department, and while not directly on the main Loire à Vélo route, it's relatively close to a new 'voie verte' (greenway) that follows the Loire valley up to Roanne, which is approximately 17 km away. This greenway connects to the broader Loire à Vélo network, part of EuroVelo 6, offering extensive cycling opportunities.
What are some of the more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 60 difficult routes available. Options include the Col de la Croix du Sud – Col de la Rivière Noire loop from Saint-Haon-le-Vieux, which features hilly terrain, or the Col de la Loge des Gardes loop from Tournaire, known for its significant elevation gain.
Are there any specific points of interest or landmarks along the routes that are worth a stop?
Absolutely. Beyond natural features, you might encounter the Saint-Haon-Le-Châtel village, which offers historical charm. The Chemin de la Ligue wind turbines also present a unique modern landmark along some paths.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Les Noës?
The region's diverse landscapes and quiet country roads are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer can be ideal for longer days on the bike. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
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