The best gravel rides around Lac de l'Hongrin

The region offers a diverse range of gravel biking experiences. You'll find wide, gravelly roads, some with challenging steep sections reaching gradients of up to 25 percent, alongside more moderate paths. Some routes also feature narrow single tracks and old mountain roads, providing a varied ride through the Vaud Alps.

There are 9 gravel bike routes available around Lac de l'Hongrin. These include 2 moderate routes and 7 more difficult options, catering to various skill levels and fitness requirements.

While most routes are considered difficult, there are 2 moderate options available. For a less strenuous ride, consider the Chalet-Restaurant Les Fers loop from Leysin, which is 15.2 km long and takes about 1 hour 25 minutes to complete.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the area offers several difficult routes. One popular option is the Col des Mosses – Lake Hongrin loop from Col des Mosses, a 36.3 km trail with significant elevation gain. Another demanding route is the View of Lake Geneva – Pierre du Moëllé Pass loop from Leysin-Feydey, covering 37.1 km through superb mountain pastures.

The best season for gravel biking is generally from June to September. During these months, access to the military firing range area around the lake is typically permitted on weekends and holidays, and snowmelt is less of an issue, ensuring more accessible trails.

Yes, the area is known for its stunning natural beauty. Many routes offer splendid views of the sparkling blue waters of Lac de l'Hongrin and the surrounding superb mountain pastures. The impressive Hongrin Dam is also a notable point of interest, and the Monts Chevreuils summit (1,749m) provides expansive views of the Pays-d'Enhaut and Col des Mosses.

While specific public transport links directly to all starting points are not detailed, areas like Col des Mosses and Leysin, which serve as starting points for some routes, are generally accessible by public transport in Switzerland. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for connections to your chosen starting point.

The gravel biking routes around Lac de l'Hongrin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the sense of exploration, and the incredible gravel trails with minimal traffic, especially the beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Lake Hongrin – Lake Hongrin loop from District de la Riviera-Pays-d’Enhaut and the Towards the Church – Pont d'Aigremont loop from Versmont, offering convenient circular rides.

While the region is known for its wild beauty, some routes, like the Chalet-Restaurant Les Fers loop from Leysin, indicate proximity to establishments. It's recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer or more isolated routes, and check for specific cafe locations near your chosen trailheads before you set out.

Yes, Lac de l'Hongrin is located within a military firing range. Access can be restricted on weekdays. However, it is typically permitted on weekends and holidays from June to September. Always check local signage and official announcements for current access information before planning your ride.