The best road cycling routes around Aurillac

Road cycling around Aurillac is characterized by diverse and challenging volcanic landscapes, winding roads, and hilly terrain. You'll find routes progressively rising towards the foot of volcanic 'puys' like Chavaroche and Griou. The region offers a mix of mostly paved surfaces, with options ranging from easy rides suitable for any fitness level to very difficult routes requiring excellent physical condition, some with significant elevation gains. Overall, there are over 600 road cycling routes in the area, with about 330 considered moderate and over 270 classified as difficult.

Yes, while Aurillac is known for its challenging terrain, there are options for less experienced riders. Approximately 330 routes are classified as moderate, and about 34 are considered easy. These routes often feature picturesque valleys and less demanding ascents, providing a gentler introduction to the region's beauty. For example, the Lake of Saint-Étienne-Cantalès - loop is a moderate 75 km path offering a scenic ride.

The Aurillac region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can expect breathtaking views of the Cantal Mountains, part of Europe's largest extinct volcano. Notable natural features include the iconic Puy Mary Summit, a 'Grand Site de France' known for its pyramid shape, and the impressive Gorges de la Jordanne. Other highlights include the Plomb du Cantal and the Puy Peyre-Arse. The Jordanne Valley itself offers a marvelous ride, especially green in spring.

Absolutely. Aurillac is a haven for experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge. The region is famous for its 'Romain Bardet Experience' loops. For instance, the Volcan du Cantal loop — Romain Bardet Experience - RBX is a demanding 143.2 km trail with over 3000 meters of elevation gain. Another significant challenge is the ascent to the Pas de Peyrol Pass (1,589 m), a hard 106 km ride from Aurillac requiring very good fitness. The Col de Pertus et Lac des Graves - loop also offers a difficult 74.4 km ride with substantial climbing.

The spring and summer months are generally ideal for road cycling in Aurillac. Spring brings verdant landscapes to areas like the Jordanne Valley, while summer offers warmer temperatures suitable for longer rides. However, due to the volcanic and mountainous terrain, weather can change, so it's always advisable to check local forecasts before heading out, especially for higher altitude passes like Pas de Peyrol.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Aurillac are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging Cantal Volcano Loop, the scenic Lake of Saint-Étienne-Cantalès - loop, and the demanding Châtaigneraie Cantalienne loop — Romain Bardet Experience - RBX. These circular routes provide a convenient way to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

The road cycling routes in Aurillac are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 300 reviews. More than 10,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain. Reviewers often praise the spectacular volcanic landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the well-maintained paved surfaces that make for an excellent cycling experience.

Yes, many routes will take you through the picturesque countryside dotted with charming villages. The Châtaigneraie Cantalienne region, for example, offers routes like the Châtaigneraie Cantalienne Loop that feature green valleys and traditional villages. The city of Aurillac itself boasts a medieval old town with narrow winding streets and half-timbered houses, along with the Abbey Church of Saint-Géraud, which you can explore before or after your ride.

Yes, the region is home to the 'Romain Bardet Experience' loops, which are a series of challenging routes traversing the volcanic Cantal region, designed by the professional cyclist Romain Bardet. Additionally, the area features 'véloroutes' such as the 'Grande Traversée du Volcan' (V74), which offers beautiful viewpoints and historical buildings. You can find more information about cycling in the region on the Pays d'Aurillac tourism website: paysaurillactourisme.com.

Aurillac is an excellent destination for serious climbers. Routes like the Cantal Volcano Loop feature over 1800 meters of elevation gain over 72.7 km. The Volcan du Cantal loop — Romain Bardet Experience - RBX boasts over 3000 meters of climbing. The ascent to the Pas de Peyrol Pass is also a renowned challenge, offering over 2000 meters of elevation gain. These routes provide ample opportunity to test your climbing prowess amidst stunning volcanic scenery.

While specific parking locations for each route are not detailed here, Aurillac and its surrounding towns generally offer various parking facilities. Given the region's popularity for outdoor activities, you can typically find parking in or near the starting points of many routes, especially in larger towns or designated tourist areas. It's advisable to check local maps or tourist information for specific parking options closest to your chosen route.