The best cycling routes around Presles

There are over 230 touring cycling routes in the Presles area, catering to various skill levels. You'll find approximately 25 easy routes, 71 moderate routes, and 136 difficult routes, offering a wide range of options within the Vercors Regional Natural Park.

Yes, Presles offers several easier routes. One example is the Choranche – Choranche Village and Cliffs loop from Choranche, which is 9.5 km long and typically takes about 35 minutes. This route leads through Choranche Village and past cliffs, providing a less strenuous option.

The touring cycling routes around Presles are known for their dramatic and diverse natural beauty, characteristic of the Vercors massif. You'll encounter stunning limestone cliffs, mountain roads carved into the rock, and varied topography that transitions from mountainous terrain to open grasslands. Many routes offer spectacular balcony views overlooking valleys, such as the iconic passage through the Combe de Laval.

Yes, many routes in Presles are designed as loops. For instance, the challenging Choranche – Presles loop from Choranche covers 22.0 km with significant elevation gain. Another option is the Col de Romeyère – Col de Mont Noir (Pass, 1431m) loop from Rencurel, a difficult 43.0 km path featuring mountain passes and substantial climbs.

The region is rich in natural and man-made landmarks. Cyclists often enjoy the spectacular views from the Combe Laval Cirque, a section of the historic Route de Presles (D292) with tunnels carved directly into the rock. You might also pass by the Écouges Tunnel or the dramatic Gorges du Nan. The village of Choranche itself is a notable spot, known for its caves and gorges.

Absolutely. The Presles area, part of the Vercors Regional Natural Park, is renowned for its geological features. You can find routes near the Choranche Caves, the Gournier Cave, or even the Corrençon Natural Icehouse. For waterfalls, consider areas near the Moulin-Marquis Waterfall and Bournillon Cave.

The touring cycling routes in Presles are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average rating of 4.6 stars from over 500 reviews. More than 8,900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the stunning scenery, challenging climbs, and the unique experience of cycling on roads carved into the cliffs.

The Vercors region, including Presles, offers a great cycling experience, particularly from spring through autumn. The weather is generally more favorable during these months, allowing for comfortable rides and clear views of the dramatic landscapes. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for mountain passes.

Yes, Presles is known for its challenging routes. The Combe Laval Cliff Road Tunnels – Combe Laval, the madness loop from Rencurel is a difficult 62.8 km route with over 1690 meters of elevation gain, featuring the iconic Combe de Laval. Another demanding option is the Presles – Forest Road of the Crochets loop from Malleval-en-Vercors, a 20.1 km difficult trail with significant climbs.

While specific komoot routes may vary, the region's cycling network often integrates sections of these iconic roads. The 'Route des Gorges de la Bourne' is a grandiose and challenging route carved into the cliffside, offering a unique experience. The 'Route de Presles' (D292) is a stunning 7-kilometer mountain road with open tunnels and passages directly through the rock, providing low, narrow lanes and blind corners as it winds through the famous Presles cliffs. Many local tours will allow you to experience these features.

Yes, the Vercors Regional Natural Park, where Presles is located, is ideal for multi-day touring. The impressive 'Grand Tour du Vercors' is a 230-kilometer journey that can be completed over 7 to 8 days, offering extensive itinerant cycling opportunities. While specific multi-day routes are not listed here, the abundance of interconnected trails allows for custom multi-day planning.