The best traffic-free bike rides around Huez

There are 16 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Huez, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 6 easy routes, 8 moderate, and 2 difficult options to explore the stunning Alpine scenery.

Huez, known as "L'Isle du Soleil" (The Island of the Sun), boasts over 300 sunny days a year. The summer months, typically from late spring to early autumn, offer the most favorable conditions for road cycling, with clear roads and pleasant temperatures. Winter conditions would make many routes inaccessible or require specialized equipment.

Yes, there are several options suitable for families. The region offers routes with less elevation gain and quieter sections. For example, the Voie verte de l'Oisans – Buclet pond loop from La Garde is a moderate route that covers 14.8 km with a manageable 145 meters of elevation gain, perfect for a family outing.

The no-traffic routes around Huez offer breathtaking Alpine landscapes. You can expect to encounter beautiful mountain passes like Sarenne Pass and serene mountain lakes such as Buclet pond, Lac de la Faucille, and Lacs de la Valette. The routes often wind through forests and offer panoramic views of the Oisans region.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Route du pas de la confession – Viaduct of Lac du Verney loop from Allemond offer a difficult 33.2 km ride with over 940 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Villard-Notre-Dame Tunnel – Gardette tunnel loop from Le Bourg-d'Oisans, which features over 1160 meters of climbing over 22.6 km.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Huez, with an average score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from nearly 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning, traffic-free Alpine scenery, the well-maintained road surfaces, and the sense of accomplishment from tackling iconic climbs like the Alpe d'Huez Climb without vehicle interference.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Tour de France finish line – Alpe d'Huez Climb loop from Huez and the Col de Sarenne – Col de Sarenne loop from Huez, providing convenient options for exploring the area.

Beyond the cycling itself, the routes offer access to incredible viewpoints and landmarks. The Alpe d'Huez Climb is a landmark in itself with its 21 hairpin bends. You can also find highlights like the Sarenne Pass, which offers spectacular natural views, and the Voie Verte de l'Oisans, a dedicated cycle path.

The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Easy routes might have around 100-200 meters of ascent, while moderate routes can range from 400-900 meters. Difficult routes, such as the Villard-Notre-Dame Tunnel – Gardette tunnel loop, can feature over 1100 meters of climbing, providing a substantial workout.

The Oisans region, where Huez is located, is renowned for its cycling infrastructure. Routes specifically designated as "no-traffic" or utilizing dedicated cycle paths like the Voie Verte de l'Oisans are designed to offer a serene cycling experience away from vehicles. The climb to Col de Sarenne is also known for its quieter, more natural environment compared to the main Alpe d'Huez ascent.

The distances of these routes vary to suit different preferences and fitness levels. You can find shorter loops around 15 km, such as the Col de Sarenne loop, up to longer, more challenging rides exceeding 30 km, like the Route du pas de la confession loop. This variety ensures there's a suitable option for a quick spin or a longer endurance ride.