The best cycling routes around Saint-Barthélemy-Lestra

There are over 150 touring cycling routes around Saint-Barthélemy-Lestra, offering a wide variety of options for different preferences and skill levels.

The terrain around Saint-Barthélemy-Lestra is quite varied, with elevations ranging from 371 to 593 meters. You'll find dedicated greenways, including a rehabilitated old monorail railway line, as well as routes offering beautiful views over the plain of Forez and paths along the Charpassonne river. The broader Loire Forez region also features diverse landscapes like the "Hautes-Chaumes" and the Bois Noirs forest.

Yes, Saint-Barthélemy-Lestra offers routes suitable for various abilities. Among the 153 available routes, 33 are classified as easy, making them ideal for beginners or family outings. These often utilize the greenways, providing smoother paths away from heavy traffic.

The touring cycling routes around Saint-Barthélemy-Lestra cater to all levels. There are 33 easy routes, 42 moderate routes, and 78 difficult routes. This range ensures that both casual riders and experienced cyclists can find a suitable challenge.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Saint-Barthélemy-Lestra are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Chemin du Monorail loop from Jas and the Crozat – Chateau de la Bonnetière loop from Bouchala.

Cyclists can enjoy picturesque views over the plain of Forez and follow the Charpassonne river, which flows through the commune. The wider region also includes the Loire Gorges and the Bois Noirs forest, offering diverse natural backdrops. You might also encounter highlights like the Gimond Dam or the Hurongues Pond.

Absolutely. Along the Charpassonne river, you can discover 13th and 15th-century ruins and a medieval garden. The commune itself is home to the Musée de la cravate et du textile. Other local heritage sites include the Manoir des Tournelles, the local church, the Tissages Gacon, and the Chapelle St-Roch. Routes like the Crozat – Chateau de la Bonnetière loop from Bouchala pass by historical sites such as the Montrond-les-Bains Castle.

Many routes offer beautiful views, particularly those traversing higher elevations or overlooking the plain of Forez. The Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) – Matagrin Tower loop from Jas, for instance, leads through higher elevations, providing expansive vistas.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 160 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the dedicated greenways, and the scenic views over the plain of Forez. The mix of easier paths and more challenging climbs also contributes to its popularity.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) – Matagrin Tower loop from Jas cover over 55 km and typically take around 4 hours 51 minutes to complete, offering a substantial touring experience.

Several routes connect to or pass by interesting points. For example, the Pretty village – Chateau de la Bonnetière loop from Haute-Rivoire explores charming villages and historical sites. You can also find routes near Montrond-les-Bains, a nearby town with its own castle.