4.4
(60)
1,049
riders
12
rides
Road cycling around Saint-Nizier-De-Fornas, located in the Loire department of central France, offers a diverse landscape for no traffic road cycling routes. The commune features varied elevations, ranging from 650 meters to 970 meters, providing a mix of rolling hills and ascents. Approximately 40% of the area is covered by forests, contributing to a tranquil and verdant environment. A greenway, "l'aventure du rail," crosses the northern part of the commune, offering often flat or gently sloping sections suitable for car-free…
Last updated: October 21, 2026
7
riders
35.6km
01:52
670m
670m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
29.3km
01:39
610m
610m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

5
riders
28.6km
01:30
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2
riders
29.4km
01:38
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Saint-Nizier-De-Fornas
Magnificent village promoting artists and artisans... a super nice café: La Pause Marolaise
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From Montarcher you have a breathtaking view of the Loire Valley all the way to the Alps
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Estivareilles is a pretty little town located on the paths to Compostela as well as on the GR 3. Its town is home to a handful of shops to keep you supplied. For a few dollars, the town hall provided a place to spend the night.
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Ferréol is a small hamlet whose old volcanic stones bear witness to the rich geological history of the region. On its central square, a fountain allows you to fill your bottle with fresh water.
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Montarcher, a small town in the heart of southern Haut-Forez, perched at 1162 meters, offers an exceptional panorama over the Velay and the Forez. Registered site, Montarcher is classified "Village of character" and has a remarkable heritage.
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On a clear day, there is a fantastic view from up here.
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In Montarcher (arrondissement of Montbrison) the hiker / pilgrim comes across a Church of St. Mary. The partly Romanesque, partly Gothic village church - the latter recognizable by the pointed arch vault typical of this architectural style - is dedicated to the Mother of God. The full title of the church is: "Église de l'Assomption-de-la-Vierge de Montarcher", so it has the patronage "Assumption of Mary". The (Catholic) Church celebrates this feast of the Assumption of Mary into heaven every year on August 15th. In rural areas there was or is the custom of collecting bundles of herbs, which are then blessed in the festival service.
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There are 13 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Saint-Nizier-De-Fornas listed on komoot. These routes offer a range of distances and elevations, perfect for exploring the tranquil landscapes of the Loire department.
The region's verdant landscapes are particularly inviting during spring and autumn, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, but it's always wise to check local weather conditions before heading out, especially given the varied terrain with altitudes up to 970 meters.
While many routes in the area feature rolling hills and ascents, the presence of a 'voie verte' (greenway) known as 'l'aventure du rail' in the northern part of the commune suggests flatter, more accessible sections. Greenways are typically old railway lines converted into paths, making them excellent for leisurely, family-friendly rides. Most of the listed routes are moderate, so look for shorter sections of greenways for easier options.
The terrain around Saint-Nizier-De-Fornas is diverse, with altitudes ranging from 650 meters to 970 meters. You can expect a dynamic environment with rolling hills and ascents, offering both challenging climbs and scenic descents. The area is largely wooded, providing a serene backdrop for your rides.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 24 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil environment, varied landscapes, and the opportunity to cycle away from heavy traffic, making it a truly relaxing experience.
Yes, several routes pass by interesting points. For example, the View From Montarcher Cross loop from Saint-Nizier-de-Fornas offers scenic vistas. You can also explore nearby settlements like Montarcher and St Bonnet-le-Château, which are often part of cycling itineraries.
Yes, the region offers natural beauty. The Creux de l'Oulette Waterfall is a notable natural highlight in the vicinity. While not directly on every route, it's an attraction worth considering for a visit during your cycling trip.
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the 1900 School Museum – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from La Chapelle-en-Lafaye is a difficult route covering nearly 100 km with over 1700 meters of elevation gain. There are 3 difficult routes in total, offering significant climbs and rewarding descents.
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For instance, the Roadbike loop from Saint-Nizier-de-Fornas is a moderate 28.6 km route that starts and finishes in the village, providing a convenient option for local exploration.
Many routes connect to or pass near picturesque villages. The Saint-Bonnet-le-Château – Devil's Bridge loop from La Tourette, for example, takes you through the area around Saint-Bonnet-le-Château, a charming settlement. You can also find routes that visit Marols, offering a glimpse into the local culture and architecture.
The longest route is the 1900 School Museum – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from La Chapelle-en-Lafaye, which spans nearly 99 kilometers. This difficult route is ideal for those seeking a full day of cycling with significant elevation changes.
Yes, the varied topography of Saint-Nizier-De-Fornas is well-suited for training. The 1900 School Museum – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from La Chapelle-en-Lafaye features over 1700 meters of elevation gain, making it an excellent choice for a challenging workout.


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