The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Clément-Les-Places

There are 10 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Saint-Clément-Les-Places featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of distances and elevations, providing options for various fitness levels.

The routes primarily traverse the picturesque Monts du Lyonnais region, characterized by its 'very natural side' and beautiful scenery. You can expect well-paved, quiet roads, wooded passages, hills adorned with fruit crops, and expansive panoramas, including views of the Monts du Forez. The region features 84 notable climbs, with an average climb being 5.1 km long with 251 meters of total ascent.

Yes, there are easy options available. For a more relaxed experience, consider The ponds of Feurs loop from Virigneux. This route covers approximately 30 km with a modest elevation gain, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous ride.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Col de la Croix de Mazieux – View of Savigny loop from Jas offer significant elevation gains. This particular route is over 70 km long with more than 1100 meters of ascent, providing a demanding ride through scenic landscapes.

While cycling, you'll encounter the natural beauty of the Monts du Lyonnais. Some routes pass near notable points of interest such as the Col de la Croix de Mazieux and the Gimond Dam. The broader region also features attractions like the Pisserotte Waterfall and the Saint-Vincent Rock, though these may require a slight detour from the main cycling paths.

The Monts du Lyonnais region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and impressive waterfalls, while autumn provides vibrant foliage. Summer is also suitable, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible but may require appropriate gear for colder temperatures and potential icy conditions on higher elevations.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Crozat – Town center loop from Virigneux is a moderate circular route covering over 37 km, offering a convenient way to explore the area without retracing your steps.

The routes vary significantly in length. You can find shorter rides, such as the 30 km The ponds of Feurs loop from Virigneux, up to longer, more challenging tours like the Town center loop from Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset, which spans nearly 60 km with over 1000 meters of ascent.

While the region offers diverse terrain, some of the easier, flatter sections and quieter roads can be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with road cycling. It's recommended to choose routes with lower elevation gains and shorter distances, such as the easy routes mentioned, to ensure an enjoyable experience for all family members.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Saint-Clément-Les-Places, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained roads, the diverse and scenic landscapes, and the rewarding climbs that offer panoramic views of the Monts du Forez and surrounding valleys.

While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, Saint-Clément-Les-Places and nearby towns like Virigneux or Saint-Laurent-de-Chamousset, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options in your chosen starting village before your ride.