The best road cycling routes around Houtaud
4.5
(177)
4,897
riders
186
rides
Road cycling routes around Houtaud are situated in the Doubs department of eastern France, offering a varied landscape for cyclists. The region features a balance of lakes and mountains, with elevations ranging from 807 to 901 meters within Houtaud itself, and higher peaks like Mont d'Or at 1,463 meters nearby. Cyclists can navigate through wooded slopes, river valleys, and areas featuring natural lakes and gorges. The terrain includes both gentle greenways along the Doubs river and more challenging climbs in the Haut-Doubs region.
Best road cycling routes around Houtaud
- The most popular road cycling route is Le Mont-calvaire – Lande du Doubs loop from Doubs, a 24.8 miles (39.9 km) trail that takes 1 hour 47 minutes to complete. This moderate loop explores the local countryside and the Lande du Doubs.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Lande du Doubs – Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon loop from Granges-Narboz, a moderate 29.5 miles (47.4 km) path. This route offers scenic views around the Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon.
- Local road cyclists also love the Source of the Loue – Pontarlier loop from Doubs, a 40.1 miles (64.6 km) trail leading through the Source of the Loue area and towards Pontarlier, often completed in about 4 hours 1 minute.
- Road cycling around Houtaud is defined by river valleys, natural lakes, and forested hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy greenways to routes with challenging ascents.
- The routes in Houtaud are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. More than 4,900 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Houtaud's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
91
riders
36.3km
01:39
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
44
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(1)
35
riders
46.6km
01:58
280m
280m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
30
riders
64.6km
04:01
800m
800m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
31
riders
22.1km
01:07
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
La Cluse-et-Mijoux is a pretty village nestled at the bottom of a valley in the Jura Mountains. Busy with cars heading to Switzerland, the town boasts a wide range of shops and services. History buffs can visit Fort de Joux or Fort Malher, which overlook La Cluse-et-Mijoux. Several chapels (Saint-Léger and Saint-Claude) also dot the outskirts of the town.
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Village located between the Joux fortified castle and Fort Malher
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Very nice view of the Doubs marsh between the Lac de Remoray and the Lac de Saint-Point. In the background you can see the Grand Taureau mountain
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Here we drive along the Doubs, but it is not always visible because it is lower.
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This lake, known for its bright blue water, crosses the Doubs in a 'valley'. This lake once formed one large body of water together with Lake Remoray. The lake is 6.3 km long and 800m wide, making it the fourth largest natural lake in France. In winter it freezes. By constructing a dam on the north side, it helps regulate the water of the Doubs.
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The Église Saint-Bénigne in Pontarlier is a church dating from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. This church combines Romanesque, Gothic and Franc-Comtoise style elements. The striking clocher porch is topped with an imperial domed roof, also known as a clocher comtois, a traditional feature of Franche-Comté. The roof is covered with glazed tiles. The Église Saint-Bénigne is located in the Haut-Doubs and is dedicated to Saint Bénigne. Since May 19, 1970, the building has been registered as a historical monument. Historically, the church was almost completely rebuilt between 1651 and 1666 on the same site as an original 11th century Romanesque church, of which almost nothing remains (except a 15th century portal). This happened after the passage of the troops of Duke Bernard de Saxe-Weimar during the Thirty Years' War. In 1666 the church was rededicated in honor of Saint Bénigne. The church has suffered serious damage over time from two fires, one in 1680 and one during the Pontarlier fire of 1736. The clocher porch was rebuilt in 1681, and the imperial dome was added in 1753 by architect Nicolas Nicole. In 1970 the church underwent a major restoration, and in 1974 new stained glass windows were created by artist Alfred Manessier and the Lorin de Chartres workshops. The organ, which dates from 1758 and is in Louis XV style, was restored in 1844 and again in 1982.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Houtaud?
The region around Houtaud offers a diverse landscape for road cyclists, characterized by a balance of lakes and mountains. You'll find routes navigating through wooded slopes, river valleys, and areas featuring natural lakes and gorges. Elevations within Houtaud itself range from 807 to 901 meters, with higher peaks like Mont d'Or reaching 1,463 meters nearby, providing both gentle greenways along the Doubs river and more challenging climbs in the Haut-Doubs region.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Houtaud area?
There are over 190 road cycling routes around Houtaud, offering a wide variety 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 160 reviews.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly road cycling routes near Houtaud?
Yes, the Doubs Valley offers sections described as 'very easy,' mainly on greenways accessible to all, which are suitable for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. While specific easy routes are not detailed in the top popular list, the overall network includes options for different ability levels.
What are some challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists around Houtaud?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes leading towards the Haut-Doubs region and the vicinity of Mont d'Or offer significant climbs and rewarding descents. The route Source of the Loue – Pontarlier loop from Doubs, for example, features over 800 meters of elevation gain over 64.6 km, providing a substantial workout.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the road cycling routes?
Road cycling routes around Houtaud offer access to stunning natural features. You can explore the serene Doubs Valley, ride past the impressive Source de la Loue, or encounter dramatic formations like the Gorges de Noailles. The region also boasts several lakes, including Lake Saint-Point, and the majestic Saut du Doubs waterfall.
Are there any historical sites or castles accessible by road bike near Houtaud?
Absolutely. The imposing Joux Castle, with its 1000-year history, is located only 7 km from Houtaud and can be incorporated into a ride, such as the Joux Castle – La Cluse-et-Mijoux loop from Doubs. Further afield, the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also reachable via a cycling path.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Houtaud?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the varied and preserved landscapes, the mix of challenging climbs and scenic river routes, and the opportunity to discover natural wonders like lakes and gorges.
Can I find circular road cycling routes around Houtaud?
Yes, many of the routes around Houtaud are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include Le Mont-calvaire – Lande du Doubs loop from Doubs and Lande du Doubs – Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon loop from Granges-Narboz, which offer convenient circular journeys.
What is the best time of year to go road cycling in Houtaud?
The region is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. The 'lakes and mountains' balance means conditions can vary, but warmer months offer the best chance for clear views and comfortable riding temperatures. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any towns or villages near Houtaud that are good starting points for road cycling?
Pontarlier, located just 3 km from Houtaud, is a key town in the area and a popular starting point for several road cycling routes. It offers amenities and serves as a hub for exploring the surrounding region. Many routes also start directly from Houtaud or nearby villages like Doubs.
Are there any long-distance road cycling options from Houtaud?
While Houtaud itself is a base, the wider Doubs department is part of a 160km cycling route along the Doubs river, extending from Montbéliard to Dôle and passing through Besançon. This route offers opportunities for longer excursions, often on greenways.
Is public transport available for cyclists with bikes in the Houtaud area?
While specific details on public transport for cyclists are not provided, the proximity of Houtaud to Pontarlier (3 km) suggests that local transport options might connect these towns. It's advisable to check with local transport providers for their policies regarding bicycles.
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