The best traffic-free bike rides around La Godivelle

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around La Godivelle featured in this guide. These routes offer a mix of easy and moderate options, perfect for enjoying the serene landscapes of the Cézallier region.

The routes around La Godivelle offer diverse terrain within the Regional Natural Park of the Volcanoes of Auvergne. You can expect magnificent landscapes, including high-altitude plateaus, volcanic lakes, and peat bogs. While roads are generally well-paved, some sections might not be asphalted, adding to the adventure. The high altitude of La Godivelle (1205 meters) ensures varied and rewarding cycling experiences with plenty of panoramic views.

Yes, for those looking for a gentler ride, the La Godivelle – La Godivelle,lac d'en bas loop from La Godivelle is classified as easy. This route is 13.7 km long with around 200 meters of elevation gain, offering a pleasant introduction to the area's quiet roads and beautiful scenery.

For a more challenging experience, several moderate routes are available. The La Godivelle – Chamaroux Pass loop from La Godivelle is a popular choice, covering 32.6 km with over 500 meters of elevation. Another great option is the Col de Montgreleix (1238 m) – La Godivelle loop from Espinchal, which is 44 km long and features nearly 800 meters of climbing.

The routes often pass by significant natural features. You can explore the unique volcanic lakes, such as the Upper Lake of La Godivelle, and the glacial Lower Lake of La Godivelle, which is gradually being colonized by a peat bog. The area is also part of the Sagnes de La Godivelle National Nature Reserve, home to diverse flora and fauna. Nearby, you might also encounter the perfectly circular volcanic Lac Chauvet.

Yes, many routes incorporate scenic mountain passes that offer stunning panoramic views of the Cézallier. You can expect to encounter passes like Volpilière Pass, Col de Chamaroux, and Col de Montgreleix (1238 m). These elevated points provide excellent opportunities to appreciate the vast, open scenery often compared to the Scottish Highlands.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free roads, the magnificent and varied landscapes, and the sense of tranquility found within the Regional Natural Park of the Volcanoes of Auvergne. The challenging yet rewarding climbs and the stunning panoramic views are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. For example, the Chamaroux Pass – La Godivelle loop from Espinchal offers a 51.2 km circular journey through the scenic Cézallier.

The summer months are generally ideal for road cycling in La Godivelle. The high altitude means pleasant temperatures, and the open landscapes are at their most vibrant. However, always check local weather conditions, as mountain weather can be unpredictable. Spring and early autumn can also offer beautiful rides with fewer crowds, but be prepared for cooler temperatures.

The charming village of La Godivelle offers a beautiful Romanesque church and the largest fountain in the Puy-de-Dôme department, which provides drinkable water. It's a great spot to pause and refill your bottles before or after your ride, and to soak in the local atmosphere.

While La Godivelle is somewhat remote, being nestled in the Cézallier, public transport options are limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car to reach the starting points of these routes. However, some routes, like the Col de Montgreleix (1238 m) – La Godivelle loop, start from nearby villages like Espinchal, which might have more accessible transport links or parking facilities.

Parking is typically available in the villages where the routes start, such as La Godivelle itself or Espinchal. These small communities usually have designated parking areas or roadside spots where you can safely leave your vehicle while you enjoy your ride. Always check local signage for any restrictions.