The best traffic-free bike rides around Écully

There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Écully, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels. This includes 7 easy routes, 35 moderate routes, and 10 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.

The routes vary significantly in length and time. For example, a moderate route like the Roadbike loop from Casino-Lacroix-Laval is about 34 km and takes around 1 hour 35 minutes. More challenging routes, such as the Col de la Croix du Ban (602 m) – Oingt loop from Casino-Lacroix-Laval, can be over 100 km and take more than 5 hours to complete.

Yes, Écully offers 7 easy routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less elevation gain and shorter distances, allowing you to enjoy the scenic environment without significant physical challenge. While specific easy routes are not listed here, you can find them within the guide.

The routes around Écully offer diverse landscapes, from the green hills and woodlands within Écully itself to the more varied terrain of the Monts du Lyonnais. You can expect picturesque views, especially from elevated points like Mont Thou, and pleasant rides along the banks of the Saône and Rhône rivers, including sections of the ViaRhôna.

Absolutely. Many routes offer stunning panoramic views, particularly from the Monts du Lyonnais. For instance, the View of the Monts du Lyonnais – Mount Thou loop from Dardilly-le-Jubin takes you near Mont Thou, which provides magnificent vistas of the Saône or Rhône valley. You might also encounter historical sites like Fort du Paillet or Rochetaillée-sur-Saône Castle on some routes.

The region around Écully is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but routes along the shaded riverbanks of the Rhône and Saône provide a cooler option. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Écully are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Miribel ford – Madonna of Mas Rillier loop from Hôtel de Ville - Louis Pradel and the Charnay Village and Castle – Le Saule d'Oingt loop from Tassin, providing convenient options for your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2,200 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from challenging climbs in the Monts du Lyonnais to the serene, traffic-free paths along the rivers, and the stunning panoramic views from various peaks like Mont Thou.

Écully's proximity to Lyon means you can often access starting points for routes via public transport. Lyon itself has extensive public transport options, and some routes may be reachable by local buses or regional trains that allow bikes, though it's always best to check specific transport provider policies and schedules beforehand.

Many routes start from areas with public parking facilities, especially those originating from towns or larger parks. For example, routes starting from Casino-Lacroix-Laval or Tassin are likely to have parking options nearby. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

Given the routes often pass through or near villages and towns in the Monts du Lyonnais or along the riverbanks, you will likely find opportunities for refreshments. Écully itself has amenities, and smaller villages along the way may offer cafes or bakeries. Planning your stops in advance can enhance your cycling experience.