The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Nicolas-Des-Biefs

There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Saint-Nicolas-Des-Biefs, offering a variety of distances and elevations suitable for different skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from easy to difficult.

The Montagne Bourbonnaise region, where Saint-Nicolas-Des-Biefs is located, features quiet mountain roads with significant ascents and descents. You can expect challenging climbs with considerable gradients, catering to both seasoned cyclists and those looking to train. Routes often traverse mid-mountain ranges with elevations from 500 meters up to the Puy de Montoncel at 1287 meters, offering varied landscapes of woodlands and alpine pastures.

Yes, there are several easier routes available. For instance, the Donjon de Lepinasse – Le Petit Louvre loop from Changy is rated as easy, covering about 33.5 km with around 230 meters of elevation gain. Another easy option is the Le Petit Louvre loop from Changy, which is approximately 35.7 km long with similar elevation.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the region offers routes with significant elevation. The Col de la Croix du Sud – Col de la Loge des Gardes loop from Ambierle is a difficult route spanning over 69 km with more than 1400 meters of elevation gain. The Montagne Bourbonnaise is known for athletic circuits, including one recognized as the most athletic in the Allier department, featuring over 1,000 meters of elevation gain over 62 kilometers.

The routes often pass through or near stunning natural features. You might encounter the unique Plateau de la Verrerie, a protected natural site with panoramic views, or the mysterious Allée des Hêtres Tortueux (Twisted Beech Alley). The Saint-Vincent Rock offers impressive views, and the Pisserotte Waterfall is a beautiful sight, especially in spring. The region is also rich in dense woodlands and expansive alpine pastures.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Les Monts de la Madeleine — loop on the plateau of La Verrerie is a moderate circular route of nearly 40 km. The Col de la Loge des Gardes loop from Saint-Priest-la-Prugne is another moderate loop, covering about 26 km.

The Montagne Bourbonnaise is enjoyable for cycling during spring, summer, and autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and increased waterfall flow, while summer provides warmer temperatures for longer rides. Autumn brings beautiful foliage. Winter can be challenging due to snow and colder temperatures, especially at higher elevations, where nearby areas like La Loge des Gardes offer skiing.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.59 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet mountain roads, the challenging climbs with rewarding panoramic views from spots like the Plateau de la Verrerie, and the diverse landscapes encompassing dense woodlands and expansive alpine pastures that make for a truly immersive cycling experience.

While specific amenities on every route are not detailed, the Montagne Bourbonnaise region has villages and towns where you can find cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Saint-Nicolas-Des-Biefs itself, and nearby villages like Châtel-Montagne, offer opportunities to refuel and rest. It's always a good idea to check local opening times, especially in smaller hamlets.

While the region is best explored by car for flexibility, public transport options might be limited to regional buses connecting larger towns. For cyclists driving to the area, parking is generally available in villages like Saint-Nicolas-Des-Biefs or at designated starting points for routes. It's advisable to check specific parking availability for your chosen route's starting location.

The 'Au coeur de la Montagne bourbonnaise' route is recognized as a very athletic circuit in the Allier department, featuring over 1,000 meters of elevation gain over 62 kilometers and traversing two cols, including a beautiful ascent to the Verrerie plateau. You can find more details about this specific route on external cycling platforms, such as Velo en France.