The best gravel rides around Les Déserts

There are over 40 gravel bike trails around Les Déserts, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The network includes routes through forested hills, valleys, and mountain passes.

The gravel biking routes in Les Déserts cater to various skill levels. While there are 2 easy routes and 11 moderate routes, the majority (30) are considered difficult, featuring significant climbs and varied terrain. This means there are plenty of options for both casual riders and experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge.

Yes, there are easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners and families. For instance, the La Féclaz loop from Chambéry is an easy 9.5 km route with moderate elevation gain, perfect for a more relaxed ride. These easier routes often traverse gentler terrain, making them ideal for those new to gravel biking or riding with children.

Absolutely. Les Déserts offers numerous challenging gravel bike routes. A notable difficult route is the Col de l'Épine viewpoint – Épine Pass loop from Viviers-du-Lac, which covers over 40 km and includes significant elevation changes, providing a demanding experience for advanced riders.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Les Déserts are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This makes planning your ride and logistics, such as parking, much simpler. Examples include the Aix-les-Bains – Crosagny Pond loop from Aix-les-Bains.

While most routes are under 50km, you can combine shorter routes or explore longer variations to achieve a distance around 50km. For example, the Col de l'Épine viewpoint – Épine Pass loop from Viviers-du-Lac is already over 40 km, and can be extended with nearby sections to reach or exceed 50km.

The region around Les Déserts is rich in natural beauty. Along the trails, you might encounter stunning gorges and waterfalls. Consider visiting the Waterfalls on the Nant du Pontet or exploring the unique Fairies' Cave. These natural highlights add an extra dimension to your gravel biking adventure.

Yes, there are several huts and cabins in the vicinity of Les Déserts that can serve as resting points or places to grab refreshments. You might find places like Alpage de la Cluse or Chalet de la Buffaz. Some, like Creux de Lachat Refuge, even offer food and drink.

Many gravel routes in Les Déserts feature significant climbs that reward riders with panoramic views. The Col de l'Épine viewpoint – Épine Pass loop from Viviers-du-Lac, for example, is specifically named for its excellent viewpoints over the surrounding landscape and mountain passes.

The best season for gravel biking in Les Déserts is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are dry and accessible. Autumn offers beautiful foliage, while spring brings blooming landscapes. Some higher elevation routes might still have snow early in the spring.

Gravel biking in winter around Les Déserts can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations. Lower-lying routes or those that are regularly cleared might be accessible, but conditions can vary greatly. It's advisable to check local weather and trail conditions before heading out, and be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially slippery surfaces.

The gravel biking routes in Les Déserts are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from wetlands to forested hillsides, and the challenging climbs that lead to rewarding views. The variety of routes ensures there's something for everyone.