The best traffic-free bike rides in Doubs

The Doubs region offers a vast network of routes for touring cyclists seeking traffic-free experiences. You can find nearly 1500 routes, with a significant portion designed to minimize encounters with vehicle traffic. These include 233 easy routes, 615 moderate routes, and 616 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels.

The Doubs region is characterized by its tranquil river valleys, extensive forests, and the picturesque Jura Mountains, providing numerous opportunities for cycling away from cars. Many routes utilize dedicated greenways, old towpaths along the Doubs River, and quiet country roads. The presence of sections of the EuroVelo 6 further enhances the traffic-free cycling experience.

Yes, the Doubs region offers several family-friendly options, particularly along the Doubs River Valley. These routes often feature flat, well-maintained paths, such as those found on the EuroVelo 6. An example of an easy, relatively short route suitable for families is the From Douvot to Baumes-les-Dames — circuit via the EV6 along the Doubs, which is just over 21 km.

Cycling in Doubs allows you to discover diverse natural beauty. You can explore the serene Doubs River Valley, dense forests like the Chaux Forest, and unique geological formations. Highlights include the Thoraise breakthrough, a river tunnel under a waterfall, and various lakes such as Lac de Saint-Point and Lake Remoray. The Savoureuse Valley Nature Reserve also offers opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Yes, many routes in Doubs are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location without retracing your path. For instance, the From Douvot to Baumes-les-Dames — circuit via the EV6 along the Doubs is an easy circular route. For a more challenging option, consider the Thoraise Tunnel – Canal du Rhône au Rhin loop from Saint-Vit.

The Doubs region is rich in history and culture. You can cycle through charming towns like Baume-les-Dames, known for its character, or visit Besançon, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its impressive citadel. The Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Sénans, another UNESCO site, is accessible via a cycle path through the Chaux Forest. You might also encounter historical sites like the Old Châteleu Inn – Michel Hollard Resistance Site.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Doubs, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially along shaded river paths, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible, but some routes may be affected by snow or ice, particularly in higher elevations of the Jura Mountains.

Many towns along the major cycling routes, such as Besançon, Dole, and Montbéliard, are well-served by regional trains, which often allow bicycles (check specific train line policies for bike carriage). This can facilitate point-to-point tours or allow you to reach a starting point for a circular route without a car.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Doubs, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4300 ratings. Reviewers frequently praise the region's peaceful, traffic-free paths, the stunning natural landscapes of the Doubs River Valley, and the well-maintained infrastructure, especially sections of the EuroVelo 6. The blend of natural beauty and historical towns is also a common highlight.

Absolutely. The Doubs region caters to all levels of touring cyclists. You'll find numerous easy, flat routes perfect for beginners or leisurely rides, often along riverbanks. Moderate routes, like the Forests, Meadows, and Valleys Trail, offer a bit more challenge with gentle ascents. For experienced cyclists seeking more demanding terrain, there are difficult routes that venture into the foothills of the Jura Mountains, providing greater elevation changes and longer distances.