The best cycling routes around Lac De Servieres

There are over 60 touring cycling routes available around Lac de Servières, catering to various skill levels. The majority, about 54, are considered difficult, while 14 are moderate, and there is one easy route.

The terrain around Lac de Servières is characterized by its volcanic origins, featuring a mix of mostly paved surfaces and some unpaved segments. You'll cycle through pine and larch forests, expansive pastures, and encounter significant elevation gains as you traverse hills and volcanic peaks. Routes often offer breathtaking views of volcanic rock formations like the Roches Tuillière and Sanadoire.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, you can enjoy the Lake Servières – Col de Guery loop from Lac de Servières, which offers continuous scenic changes through the volcanic landscape. Another option is the moderate Lake Servières – Lake Servières loop from Pessade, perfect for a shorter ride around the lake.

Cyclists can enjoy stunning views of the volcanic landscape, including the 'maar' lake of Lac de Servières itself, formed in an ancient volcano crater. Routes often provide panoramas of the Roches Tuillière and Sanadoire, remnants of ancient volcanoes. The Col de Guéry, at approximately 1,267 meters, offers breathtaking vistas of Lac du Guéry and the surrounding Massif Central volcanoes. The area is also an 'Espace Naturel Sensible,' highlighting its preserved flora, fauna, and peat bog.

The region is best enjoyed during the warmer months, typically from late spring through early autumn. This period offers more favorable weather conditions for cycling, allowing you to fully appreciate the clear air and stunning scenery. During summer, you might even find wild blueberries and raspberries in the forests.

While many routes involve significant elevation, there are options suitable for families. The Lake Servières – Lake Servières loop from Pessade is a moderate route that circles the lake, offering a less demanding experience with beautiful scenery. It's always recommended to check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's fitness level.

The touring cycling routes around Lac de Servières are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the tranquility of the forests and pastures, and the challenging yet rewarding ascents that lead to panoramic views.

Parking is generally available in and around the villages and key starting points for routes, such as Pessade or near Lac de Servières itself. It's advisable to check specific parking options for your chosen starting point before your trip, especially during peak season.

Absolutely. The region is known for its demanding routes with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Col de Guery – Incredible views of the volcanoes loop from Pessade is a difficult 38.7 km trail with over 1000 meters of ascent, leading through volcanic peaks and forested areas. Another challenging option is the Lake Servières – Ascent to Col de Saint-Laurent loop from Pessade, which covers 43.4 km with similar elevation.

While the immediate area around Lac de Servières is quite natural and preserved, you can typically find cafes and small establishments in nearby villages like Pessade or other hamlets along the routes. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes, and carry sufficient water and snacks.

Yes, Lac de Servières serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Auvergne region, which is renowned for its diverse cycling landscapes, including the Chaîne des Puys and the more mountainous Puy du Sancy. Routes in the area can connect to these broader networks, offering opportunities for extended multi-day tours through forests, hills, and valleys.