The best cycling routes around Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival

There are over 140 touring cycling routes in the Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival area. These routes vary in difficulty, with options ranging from moderate to challenging, primarily traversing the volcanic landscapes of the Auvergne region.

The best time for touring cycling in Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the volcanic landscapes and mountain passes are most accessible. Winter cycling can be challenging due to snow and colder temperatures at higher elevations.

While many routes in the region are considered difficult due to the volcanic terrain and elevation changes, there are a few easier options. The guide lists 8 routes categorized as easy, which are ideal for those new to touring cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride.

The terrain around Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival is characterized by the volcanic landscapes of the Auvergne. You can expect varied elevation changes, with routes often traversing ancient volcanic peaks (puys), scenic mountain passes, forested areas, and open plateaus. Some routes, like The puy de dôme ⛰️ – Gravel between the puys loop from Orcival, even include gravel sections.

Many routes offer stunning views of the volcanic landscape. For panoramic vistas, consider routes that pass near the Puy de Dôme Summit or the Puy de la Vache. The Views of the northern Puys chain highlight is also a popular spot for scenic overlooks.

The region is rich in natural and historical landmarks. Along your rides, you might encounter the iconic Puy de Dôme Summit, the ancient Temple of Mercury, or various mountain passes such as Ceyssat Pass and Guéry Pass. The View of Roches Tuilière and Sanadoire also offers a unique geological sight.

Yes, there are several longer routes for experienced touring cyclists. For example, the Col de Guery – Orcival loop from Orcival is a challenging 67.2 km path with significant climbs and descents, offering an extensive ride through mountain passes and valleys.

The touring cycling routes around Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique volcanic landscapes, the challenging climbs, and the diverse scenery, from forested areas to open plateaus.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. Examples include the Col de la Moréno (1065 m) – Lake Aydat loop from Nébouzat and the La chaîne des puys – Orcival loop from Orcival.

While Saint-Bonnet-Près-Orcival itself is a small village, some larger towns in the Auvergne region, such as Clermont-Ferrand, offer public transport connections. From these hubs, you may need to cycle or arrange local transport to reach specific route starting points. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for bicycle carriage policies.

For families, it's recommended to look for the easier-rated routes, which tend to have less elevation gain and are shorter in distance. While the region is known for its challenging terrain, the 8 easy routes available would be more suitable for a family outing, allowing for a more relaxed pace through the scenic surroundings.

Parking availability varies by starting point. Many routes begin in or near villages like Orcival or Nébouzat, where public parking areas are often available. It's recommended to check the specific route details on komoot for information on designated parking spots near the trailhead.