4.4
(128)
541
riders
80
rides
Mountain biking around Violay features a landscape characterized by rolling hills and significant elevation changes, with routes often traversing through forested areas. The region includes notable points like Col de la Croix Cazard and Matagrin Tower, offering varied terrain for mountain bikers. The trails provide opportunities to explore both natural and historical landmarks.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
5.0
(2)
21
riders
22.7km
02:12
580m
590m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
15
riders
38.1km
03:49
990m
990m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(4)
9
riders
34.6km
03:06
800m
800m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
18.9km
01:52
460m
460m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
riders
55.2km
05:18
1,390m
1,390m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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take the stairs to Chemin du Tacot in Sainte Colombe
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very nice circuit with 2 difficult passages (lots of stones in the path) good physical conditions.
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Pretty long pass on the Tarare side with a constant slope around 5%. Delimits the watershed line between the Rhône and the Loire. Do not hesitate to climb to Mont Boussuivre by extending a few hundred meters and climb to the top of the Matagrin tower to enjoy a magnificent view of the whole region.
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Magnificent work of art overlooking the A89, a very beautiful point of view and an impressive feeling of space. We can say hi to cars, it's funny.
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Fortified medieval village. You can still see three emblematic fortified towers at the gates of the village: the Magna Porta Tower, the Egg Tower and the Cotton Tower.
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Built in 1876, the tower was topped with a pointed roof. At the time, it served as a hunting meeting place for a local notary, Master Matagrin, then became a drinking establishment and even welcomed dance enthusiasts. A Napoleonic terminal was inserted next to the entrance door with the inscription: "Point trigo Napoléon Empereur Nov 1812".
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This small village located in the Rhône department and at the extreme south of the Monts du Beaujolais is the final stage of the GR 76.
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There are over 80 mountain bike trails around Violay, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
The mountain bike trails around Violay are predominantly moderate to difficult. You'll find 52 moderate routes and 26 difficult routes, with a few easier options also available. The region is characterized by rolling hills and significant elevation changes.
Yes, there are a couple of easier mountain bike trails around Violay, suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and elevation.
Trail distances vary, with many routes ranging from 18 km to over 38 km. For example, the Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) – Col de la Croix Cazard loop from Violay is about 18.9 km and takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, while the more challenging Matagrin Tower – Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) loop from Violay covers 38.1 km and can take nearly 4 hours.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Violay are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) – Matagrin Tower loop from Violay and the Matagrin Tower – Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) loop from Violay.
The trails often traverse through forested areas and rolling hills. You can expect to pass by notable points like Col de la Croix Cazard (865 m) and Matagrin Tower. Some routes, like the Medieval village of Néronde loop from Sainte-Colombe-sur-Gand, also lead past historical sites.
Yes, the region offers several points of interest. You might encounter mountain passes such as Col de la Croix de Mazieux and Col des Cassettes (622 m). Other attractions include the Croix de Paisselay and the Beaujolais Vert Wind Farm.
The mountain bike trails in Violay are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the challenging climbs, and the scenic forested sections.
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in Violay, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be good, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter riding is possible, but trails may be muddy or icy, especially at higher elevations.
Many routes conveniently start directly from Violay or nearby villages like Sainte-Colombe-sur-Gand. Common starting points often include areas near key landmarks such as Col de la Croix Cazard or Matagrin Tower, which are well-known in the local cycling community.
Yes, the Medieval village of Néronde loop from Sainte-Colombe-sur-Gand is a notable route that takes you through varied landscapes and past historical sites, offering a cultural dimension to your ride.


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