The best traffic-free bike rides around Riverie

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Riverie, all offering a moderate difficulty level for an engaging ride.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, you can enjoy the Sainte Catherine – Church of Saint-André-la-Côte loop from Lamure, or the Sainte Catherine loop from Rive-de-Gier, both offering scenic circular rides.

The routes around Riverie are characterized by rolling hills and varied landscapes, typical of the Monts du Lyonnais region. You'll encounter ascents and descents, providing a good workout while enjoying the quiet countryside.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.56 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, low-traffic roads and the beautiful, undulating scenery that makes for a rewarding cycling experience.

While all routes are rated moderate, making them suitable for cyclists with some experience, the shorter loops like the Route d'Yzeron – Monts du Lyonnais loop from Saint-Martin-en-Haut (24 km) could be a good option for families looking for a less strenuous but still engaging ride on quiet roads.

As you cycle, you can discover several historical and cultural highlights. Consider visiting the Saint Vincent Chapel, the Gold Mine of Saint-Joseph, or the Medieval Site of Rochefort. The charming village of Saint-Martin-en-Haut also offers a pleasant stop.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for road cycling in the Riverie region, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially in the mornings or late afternoons, but be prepared for warmer conditions.

All routes in this guide are classified as moderate, featuring significant elevation gains. For example, the Sainte Catherine loop from Rive-de-Gier covers nearly 38 km with over 770 meters of elevation gain, providing a challenging and rewarding ride for experienced cyclists.

Many of the routes start from towns like Lamure, Rive-de-Gier, Mornant, or Saint-Martin-en-Haut. These towns typically offer public parking facilities where you can safely leave your vehicle before starting your ride.

The routes often pass through or near small villages and towns where you can find local cafes, bakeries, or small shops to refuel and take a break. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify these points of interest along the way.

The no-traffic road bike routes in Riverie vary in length, generally ranging from approximately 24 km to 38 km. This allows for rides of different durations, from a couple of hours to a half-day adventure.