The best traffic-free bike rides around La Mure

There are several dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails around La Mure. This guide features 3 carefully selected routes, ranging from moderate to difficult, ensuring a peaceful and scenic ride away from cars.

The terrain around La Mure offers a diverse gravel biking experience. You'll encounter high plateaus, mountain pastures, and routes along glacial lakes. Expect varied elevation changes, from challenging climbs to rewarding descents, with surfaces typically consisting of gravel paths and forest roads. The region is framed by the Vercors and Ecrins mountain ranges, providing a truly mountainous backdrop.

While the routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the region does offer paths that can be enjoyed by those seeking a less strenuous ride. For a moderate option, consider the View of Lac du Sautet – Ebron Footbridge loop from Treffort, which covers 10.25 km with a manageable elevation gain. Always check the route details to ensure it matches your family's skill level.

The traffic-free routes around La Mure are rich with natural beauty and unique landmarks. You can expect breathtaking views of surrounding mountain ranges like Vercors and Ecrins. The View of Lac du Sautet – Ebron Footbridge loop from Treffort offers stunning vistas of Lake Monteynard-Avignonet and crosses the impressive Ebron Footbridge. Another notable natural feature in the wider region is La Pierre Percée, a natural arch offering panoramic views of the Matheysine plateau.

The best time for gravel biking in La Mure, especially for traffic-free routes, is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally favorable, and the trails are clear. While the routes are designed to be traffic-free, visiting outside of peak holiday periods can ensure an even more tranquil experience. Winter can bring snow, making some trails impassable for gravel bikes.

Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without needing to retrace your steps. For example, the Collet of Sinard, 900 m – Lac de Monteynard loop from Treffort is a challenging circular route offering extensive views.

Many natural trails in the La Mure region are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check local regulations for specific paths. When cycling with your dog, ensure they are well-behaved and kept on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or livestock, and always carry water for them. The traffic-free nature of these routes makes them safer for pets.

Access points for these traffic-free routes often have designated parking areas. For instance, routes like the View of Lac du Sautet – Ebron Footbridge loop and the Collet of Sinard loop start from Treffort, which typically offers parking facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. For the View of the Vercors loop, you would look for parking near La Motte-d'Aveillans. Always check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

The La Mure region is well-equipped to welcome outdoor enthusiasts. You'll find various accommodation options, from guesthouses to hotels, in and around towns like La Mure, Treffort, and La Motte-d'Aveillans. Many villages also have local cafes and restaurants where you can refuel after your ride. It's advisable to check opening hours, especially outside of peak season.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in La Mure, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, the peacefulness of the traffic-free trails, and the diverse natural landscapes, including glacial lakes and dramatic gorges. The sense of immersion in nature away from vehicle noise is a frequently highlighted aspect.

Yes, the region offers options for longer rides. The View of the Vercors – View of the Drac River loop from La Motte-d'Aveillans is a challenging route spanning over 29 km with significant elevation gain, providing an extended traffic-free experience through varied landscapes and offering expansive views of the Vercors massif and the Drac River.