The best traffic-free bike rides around Messeix
4.3
(58)
2,391
riders
9
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Messeix are situated in the heart of France's Massif Central, within the Auvergne region. The area features a "middle mountain" landscape, characterized by diverse terrain including winding roads, volcanic formations, rough plateaus, and forests with fast-flowing streams. This varied topography provides a range of cycling experiences, from significant climbs to less arduous routes, often with few straight sections.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Messeix
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
5.0
(5)
125
riders
74.5km
04:00
1,390m
1,390m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
18
riders
40.4km
02:04
720m
720m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
5
riders
37.9km
01:43
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
54.2km
02:49
920m
920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
58km
02:45
740m
740m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Messeix
Tips from the Community
Wikipedia has information about the dam: FR: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrage_de_Bort-les-Orgues DE: https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrage_de_Bort-les-Orgues
1
1
The Bort dam is a structure 120 meters high and 390 meters long, straddling the municipalities of Bort and Lanobre, and creating a reservoir of more than 10 km2. Built between 1942 and 1952, it was then a veritable concrete juggernaut and today it remains one of the largest dams in France (and still the third in mainland France if we look at the quantity of water retained by a concrete construction). It is also the first and largest reservoir in the hydroelectric system of the Dordogne valley.
0
0
Don't go here, from the south side there is a sign: Access Interdit. And the track is not worth it. Actually for the largest part there is no track at all! (need to find your way over grassland)
0
0
The Bort dam is a structure 120m high and 390m long, straddling the municipalities of Bort and Lanobre, and creating a reservoir of more than 10 km2. Built between 1942 and 1952, it was then a veritable behemoth of concrete and it remains today one of the largest dams in France (and even still the third largest in mainland France if we look at the quantity of water retained by a construction of concrete). It is also the first and largest reservoir of the hydroelectric system in the Dordogne valley.
1
0
Small supervised family beach, very clean water with the possibility of eating in a nice atmosphere
0
0
Perfect setting for mountain biking
0
0
An impressive dam which has a museum that can be visited! It's worth the detour
0
0
nice view
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Messeix?
Komoot offers 9 carefully curated no-traffic road cycling routes around Messeix. These routes range in difficulty, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling in the Messeix area?
The Auvergne region, including Messeix, is generally best for road cycling from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, you'll find more stable weather, warmer temperatures, and the full beauty of the volcanic landscapes and forests.
Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there is one easy no-traffic road cycling route around Messeix. The Bagnols loop from Larodde is a great option, covering 20.2 km with a manageable elevation gain of 243 meters, perfect for a relaxed ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The Messeix area, nestled in the Massif Central, offers a 'middle mountain' landscape. You can expect diverse terrain with winding roads, some significant climbs, and very few straight sections. The routes often pass through forests, alongside fast-flowing streams, and offer views of rough plateaus and volcanic formations.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Bort-les-Orgues Dam – Bort-les-Orgues Dam loop from Tauves is a difficult route. It spans 74.5 km with a substantial elevation gain of nearly 1400 meters, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.
What do other cyclists say about the no-traffic road cycling routes in Messeix?
The no-traffic road cycling routes around Messeix are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 46 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet roads, the stunning natural beauty of the Auvergne, and the engaging, varied terrain.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes listed are circular loops. For example, the Gîtes Moulin des Borderies loop from Singles offers a moderate 23.9 km ride, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What are some notable landmarks or natural features I might see on these routes?
While specific landmarks vary by route, the region is known for its ancient volcanic landscapes, rough plateaus, and dense forests with streams. You might encounter views of the Chain of Puys or Mont Dore in the broader Auvergne, and the historical Messeix Mine is also nearby for those interested in local heritage.
How long do the no-traffic road cycling routes typically take to complete?
The duration varies significantly based on the route's distance and difficulty, as well as your cycling pace. For instance, a moderate route like the Roadbike loop from Eygurande - Merlines (37.9 km) might take around 1 hour 40 minutes, while longer, more difficult routes can take several hours.
Are there options for moderate-difficulty no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, the majority of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Messeix are of moderate difficulty. An example is the Old Oven of Espinasse – Bagnols loop from Singles, which covers 52.1 km with 875 meters of elevation gain, offering a good balance of challenge and enjoyment.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
