The best traffic-free bike rides around Lamastre

The most prominent traffic-free route is La Dolce Via, a 90 km greenway built on a former railway line. It offers a gentle slope, making it accessible for various fitness levels and ideal for family outings. You can find more information about this route on France Vélo Tourisme.

Yes, the gentle gradients of La Dolce Via make it perfect for beginners and families. Its maximum slope is only 3.1%, allowing for a relaxed ride through the scenic Ardèche countryside. Sections of this route, like the one through the Gorges of the Eyrieux, are particularly picturesque and car-free.

While the main traffic-free route, La Dolce Via, is relatively flat with gentle slopes, other low-traffic road cycling routes in the wider Lamastre area can include significant elevation gains. For example, the Rochepaule Pass – Lalouvesc loop from Lamastre features over 3,400 meters of elevation gain, offering challenging climbs and rewarding panoramic views of the Monts d'Ardèche.

Along the traffic-free routes, especially La Dolce Via, you'll encounter impressive engineering feats like the well-lit Nonières Tunnel and several majestic viaducts. The route also winds through the stunning Doux and Eyrieux Valleys, offering breathtaking river landscapes. You can also see the Old Lamastre train station, which is a historical site along the route.

Yes, the iconic Train de l'Ardèche (Mastrou) offers a unique way to experience the Gorges du Doux, and it's possible to transport bicycles on the train. This allows for varied routes, letting you cycle one way and return by train, or access different parts of the cycling network.

Yes, parking is generally available in Lamastre and in towns along the Dolce Via, such as Le Cheylard and La Voulte-sur-Rhône. These locations serve as convenient starting points for your traffic-free cycling adventures.

The spring and autumn months are generally considered the best for cycling in the Ardèche. Spring offers pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, while autumn provides beautiful golden chestnut forests. Summer can be warm, but the shaded sections of routes like La Dolce Via offer some respite. Winter cycling is possible but can be colder, especially at higher elevations in the Monts d'Ardèche.

While La Dolce Via is primarily a linear greenway, you can create circular routes by combining sections of it with quiet local roads or by utilizing the Train de l'Ardèche for a return journey. For a more challenging circular option on low-traffic roads, consider the Rochepaule Pass – Col de Brun loop from Coiret.

The komoot community highly rates the cycling experience around Lamastre, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural beauty of the Ardèche, the well-maintained greenways like La Dolce Via, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels, from easy family rides to challenging climbs with panoramic views.

Yes, the towns and villages along La Dolce Via, such as Lamastre, Le Cheylard, and La Voulte-sur-Rhône, offer various cafes, restaurants, and local shops where you can stop for refreshments, a meal, or to pick up local produce. Many of these establishments are bike-friendly, catering to cyclists enjoying the greenway.

Generally, dogs are permitted on a leash on greenways like La Dolce Via. However, it's always advisable to check specific local regulations or signage, especially regarding public transport options like the Train de l'Ardèche, which may have specific rules for pets. Ensure your dog is comfortable with cycling and that you carry water for them.