The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Mages

There are 6 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Les Mages, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, allowing for a more peaceful ride through the region's diverse landscapes.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Les Mages primarily cater to experienced riders, with 4 routes rated as difficult and 2 as moderate. Riders should expect varied terrain, including unpaved and potentially rocky segments, as well as significant elevation changes on some routes.

You'll encounter a diverse range of landscapes, from spectacular gorges like the Gorges de l'Ardèche and Chassezac Gorges to serene riverbanks and cultivated fields. Many routes offer panoramic views, and some even lead through areas with challenging, rocky scree paths, such as those near The Little Aiguières.

While most routes are rated moderate to difficult, the region does offer some sections that are more accessible. For a less strenuous experience, consider parts of the Via Ardèche – Ruoms Gorge loop from Saint-André-de-Cruzières, which incorporates greenways and paved tracks like the one through the Gadilhe tunnel. These sections provide smoother surfaces suitable for a wider range of riders, though the full loop is considered difficult.

The routes offer access to several interesting points. You might pass by the historic Montalet Castle, or experience the unique natural setting of The Little Aiguières with its clear waters. The Gadilhe tunnel, part of the Via Ardèche, is also a magnificent feature to cycle through.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Bourricot Pass – Castellas Castle Ruins loop from Saint-Jean-de-Maruéjols-et-Avéjan offers a challenging circular ride, as does the Roman Bridge of l'Aubarou – Bécamel Tower loop from Salindres.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the gorges and varied landscapes, and the challenge offered by the unpaved and technical sections.

Yes, the Via Ardèche is accessible and offers excellent no-traffic gravel biking opportunities. The Via Ardèche – Ruoms Gorge loop from Saint-André-de-Cruzières is a prime example, allowing you to experience this dedicated cycle path and its scenic surroundings, including the impressive Via Ardèche near Saint-Paul-le-Jeune.

For a shorter, moderate option, consider the Puits de Celas Memorial – Bécamel Tower loop from Saint-Privat-des-Vieux. This route covers about 20 km with less elevation gain compared to the more difficult trails, making it suitable for a quicker, yet still engaging, gravel ride.

The region's climate makes it suitable for gravel biking through much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summers can be hot, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winters are typically mild, but checking local weather conditions is always advisable.

While not explicitly named, many routes in the vicinity of Les Mages will traverse the diverse topography of the region, which includes riverbanks and cultivated fields characteristic of valleys like the Auzonnet. The Les Fumades – Village of Rochegude loop from Rivières offers a moderate ride through varied terrain that could include such valley landscapes.