The best traffic-free bike rides around Mazan-L'Abbaye
4.4
(87)
941
riders
30
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Mazan-L'Abbaye traverse a landscape characterized by national forests, featuring conifers, beeches, maples, and rowan trees, alongside humid "mouillères." Situated on the foothills of the Ardèche Mountains, the region offers numerous viewpoints and natural features like the Malachamp waterfall and the basaltic formations of La Chaussée des Géants. The preserved natural environment is part of the Natura 2000 protection plan, providing a mountainous climate for outdoor exploration.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Mazan-L'Abbaye
…Last updated: July 17, 2026
5.0
(1)
13
riders
51.3km
04:42
1,100m
1,100m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
28.5km
02:38
800m
800m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.5
(2)
6
riders
24.2km
01:37
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
17.9km
01:28
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
25.8km
02:24
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Etymology: comes from Mas d’Adam, the name of the old estate that was located on the site of the current village, which was ceded by the lord of Géorant to the bishop of Viviers to allow him to found the abbey of Mazan. It all begins with the foundation of the Cistercian abbey in the heart of the village. This takes place between 1119 and 1122. At the beginning of the 12th century, canons came to settle on the site of Mas d’Adam (a toponym that would evolve into MAZAN), and were joined by monks from the abbey of Bonnevaux. These religious men built a huge abbey, of which only the remains exist today, which experienced a period of apogee that lasted until the Hundred Years' War. It gave birth to four other abbeys which are Bonneval, Sénanque, Sylvanès and le Thoronet as well as establishments for nuns. After this prosperous period, misfortunes followed one another at the abbey of Mazan: it was plundered by the great companies of the Hundred Years' War, then attacked by the Huguenots in the modern period. Before this last looting, the monks, according to legend, would have melted a golden bell with all their treasures, which they would have buried somewhere, facing and opposite the bull's-eye window, within earshot of the rooster's crow. montagnedardeche.com/patrimoine-culturel/village-de-mazan-labbaye-2387
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Etymology: comes from Mas d’Adam, name of the old domain which was located at the site of the current village which was ceded by the lord of Géorant to the bishop of Viviers to allow him to found the abbey of Mazan. It all begins with the foundation of the Cistercian abbey in the heart of the village. This takes place between 1119 and 1122. At the beginning of the 12th century, canons came to settle on the site of Mas d’Adam (toponym that would evolve towards MAZAN), and were joined by monks from the abbey of Bonnevaux. These religious men built an immense abbey, of which only the remains are left today, which experienced a period of apogee that lasted until the Hundred Years' War. It gave birth to four other abbeys which are Bonneval, Sénanque, Sylvanès and le Thoronet as well as establishments of nuns. After this prosperous period, misfortunes followed one another at the abbey of Mazan: it was plundered by the great companies of the Hundred Years' War, then attacked by the Huguenots in the modern period. Before this last pillage, the monks, according to legend, would have melted a golden bell with all their treasures, which they would have buried somewhere, opposite and in front of the bull's eye, within earshot of the cock's crow. https://www.montagnedardeche.com/patrimoine-culturel/village-de-mazan-labbaye-2387/
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Sanitary facilities in Mazan-l’Abbaye
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Very nicely located grotto, you can also go swimming below.
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Alpine, huge stones in high percentage. Take the road.
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Stroll around the lake on Sunday July 23, 2023. Very pleasant because it is largely shaded. Provide credit card (no possibility to pay in cash) for paid parking from 01/06 to 30/09, package 3€. Lots of people on the beaches and around.
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Work "A circle and a thousand fragments" by Felice Varini. https://www.ardeche-guide.com/lieux-de-visites/sites-historical-monuments/oeuvre-un-cercle-et-mille-fragments-de-felice-varini-4827079
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Crater lake, 1,000 meters above sea level with a very pleasant beach for swimming. Very calm. Good food options around and public restrooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Mazan-l'Abbaye?
There are over 25 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Mazan-l'Abbaye, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the beautiful Ardèche Mountains.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these car-free cycling routes?
The routes around Mazan-l'Abbaye traverse diverse terrain, from the foothills of the Ardèche Mountains to national forests. You'll encounter a mix of ascents and descents, with many routes offering magnificent viewpoints and panoramic vistas. The region's mountainous climate means varied conditions, so be prepared for changes in elevation.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly no-traffic routes for touring cyclists?
While many routes in the region are moderate to difficult, there is at least one easy route available. For example, the area offers trails suitable for leisurely exploration, though specific 'easy' no-traffic touring routes might require careful selection based on your fitness level. Always check the route details for elevation gain before setting out.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic cycling routes?
You can discover a wealth of natural and historical attractions. Highlights include the unique basaltic formations of Rue des Géants Basalt Columns, the picturesque Lac d’Issarlès, and the historic Cistercian Abbey of Mazan. The region is also known for its 'mouillères' (humid areas) and diverse flora within the national forests.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring routes around Mazan-l'Abbaye?
Yes, several circular routes are available. For instance, you can enjoy the Mazan Abbey – Mazan-l'Abbaye loop from Saint-Cirgues-en-Montagne, which offers a moderate challenge over approximately 24 km. Another option is the Mazan-l'Abbaye – Mazan Abbey loop from Mazan-l'Abbaye, a more difficult 25 km ride.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic touring cycling in Mazan-l'Abbaye?
The Ardèche Mountains experience a mountainous climate. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for cycling. Summer can be warm but is also popular. Winter cycling is possible, but you should be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially snow at higher elevations.
Are there any routes that pass by the Lac d'Issarlès?
Yes, the Lac d’Issarlès – Bridge over the Loire loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès is a challenging 50 km route that takes you past this beautiful lake. Another option is the Bridge over the Loire loop from Le Lac-d'Issarlès, a moderate 18 km route also starting from the lake.
What do other touring cyclists say about the no-traffic routes in Mazan-l'Abbaye?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Mazan-l'Abbaye, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's preserved natural environment, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the stunning panoramic views from various points along the routes.
Can I find cafes or restaurants along these car-free cycling paths?
While the routes focus on natural and car-free environments, Mazan-l'Abbaye and nearby villages offer amenities. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes, and plan your stops in advance as services might be sparse in more remote forest sections.
Are there any specific routes that highlight the historic Cistercian Abbey of Mazan?
Absolutely. Routes like the Mazan Abbey – Mazan-l'Abbaye loop from Saint-Cirgues-en-Montagne and the Mazan Abbey – Mazan-l'Abbaye loop from Lanarce are designed to feature the historic Cistercian Abbey of Mazan, allowing you to explore its vestiges and the contemporary art installation by Felice Varini.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on these routes?
The preserved natural environment, part of the Natura 2000 protection plan, allows for encounters with various wild animals. Keep an eye out for birds of prey like the Saint-Martin's harrier, buzzard, sparrowhawk, and falcon, as well as squirrels, martens, badgers, foxes, roe deer, and genets, especially in the national forest areas.
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