The best cycling routes around Lac de Cleuson

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Lac de Cleuson, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. The majority of these routes are rated as difficult, providing a challenge for experienced riders.

The best times for touring cycling around Lac de Cleuson are during summer and autumn. Summer offers pleasant temperatures, while autumn provides beautiful colors and generally fewer crowds, making for a very scenic experience.

The terrain around Lac de Cleuson is diverse, featuring winding alpine roads, gravel paths, and some unpaved sections, especially closer to the lake and the Cleuson Dam. Routes often transition from paved surfaces to gravel, catering to different cycling preferences and skill levels.

Yes, there are several loop options available. For example, the Japanese Garden Nendaz – Green Oasis in Siviez loop from Siviez is a popular 12.4 km difficult route. Another option is the Col des Gentianes – Col des Gentianes loop from Les Naires, which is 13.5 km long and also rated difficult.

Cyclists will encounter stunning alpine landscapes, including panoramic views of the Pennine Alps and the Rhone Valley. The most striking feature is the vibrant turquoise water of Lac de Cleuson itself. You'll also pass through lush alpine meadows, dense forests, and dramatic glacial formations. The impressive Cleuson Dam is another significant point of interest.

Beyond the stunning natural beauty, the Cleuson Dam is an impressive feat of engineering, offering a unique point of interest. You might also encounter sections of the historic "Bisse du Chervé," an ancient irrigation channel, adding a cultural dimension to your ride. The small chapel of St. Barthélemy, located just behind the dam, is also worth a visit.

Touring cycling around Lac de Cleuson is characterized by challenging climbs and significant elevation changes. The majority of the 27 routes are rated as difficult, making them best suited for experienced cyclists with good fitness levels. There are a few moderate routes, but no easy routes are currently listed for touring cycling.

Yes, parking is generally available in villages like Siviez and Haute Nendaz, which serve as common starting points for many cycling routes leading towards Lac de Cleuson and the dam. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot pages.

Public transport options are available to reach the general area, particularly to villages like Nendaz or Siviez, which are common starting points for routes to Lac de Cleuson. From these points, you can begin your cycling tour. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on connections.

The touring cycling routes around Lac de Cleuson are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning panoramic views, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the unique turquoise color of the lake. The diverse terrain, including both paved and gravel sections, is also frequently highlighted as a positive aspect of the experience.

Due to the significant elevation gains and the prevalence of difficult-rated routes, the area around Lac de Cleuson is primarily suited for experienced touring cyclists. There are currently no routes specifically listed as easy or family-friendly for touring cycling in this guide, suggesting that routes may be too challenging for younger children or those seeking a very relaxed ride.