The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Marches

The no-traffic gravel bike trails in Les Marches, France, traverse a varied landscape. You'll encounter river valleys, rolling hills, and forested areas, with routes often following riverbanks and winding through woodlands. Expect a mix of gravel paths, unpaved country roads, and some sections with significant elevation gain as you ascend towards mountain passes.

Yes, all the gravel bike routes in this guide are rated as difficult, offering a good challenge for experienced riders. For example, the Route des Vignes – Lac de Sainte Hélène loop from Montmélian covers nearly 49 km with over 700 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Lac de Sainte Hélène – Lake Carouge loop from Sainte-Hélène-du-Lac, which features over 750 meters of ascent.

Les Marches offers beautiful natural sights. You can find stunning waterfalls like the Waterfalls on the Nant du Pontet or the Gouille Waterfall. The region is also home to picturesque lakes such as Lake Saint-André, nestled among vineyards, which is a popular highlight for visitors.

Absolutely. While cycling, you might catch glimpses of historic sites like the Château de Miolans. For panoramic views, consider routes that pass near points like the La Cochette Cross or the Coche Pass. The Mont Saint-Michel Chapel, an octagonal chapel on a small plateau, also offers views of Chambéry and the surrounding massifs.

The best time for gravel biking in Les Marches is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the trails are in good condition. Summer offers warm, sunny days, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, making for a very scenic ride. Winter can be challenging due to snow and colder conditions, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Bayard Castle – Crête d'Avallon loop from Pontcharra and the View of Saint-Michel – Grand Joueret loop from La Ravoire are both excellent circular options for exploring the region without traffic.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Les Marches, with an average score of 4.25 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free routes, the diverse landscapes ranging from river valleys to mountain passes, and the opportunity to discover hidden natural gems and historical viewpoints away from busy roads.

While the routes themselves focus on traffic-free paths, the region of Les Marches has charming medieval villages and towns that offer opportunities for cafe stops, local restaurants, and accommodation. Planning your route to pass through or near these settlements will allow you to refuel and experience local hospitality.

This guide features 4 distinct no-traffic gravel bike trails, all of which are rated as difficult, providing a challenging and rewarding experience for gravel cyclists.

Yes, Les Marches offers longer no-traffic gravel routes for those seeking extended rides. The Route des Vignes – Lac de Sainte Hélène loop from Montmélian is nearly 49 km long, and the Lac de Sainte Hélène – Lake Carouge loop from Sainte-Hélène-du-Lac spans over 41 km, both offering significant distances away from vehicular traffic.