The best cycling routes around Laval

Laval boasts a significant and growing cycling infrastructure, featuring nearly 300 km of bike paths and multi-purpose trails. This network is planned to expand to 450 km by 2031, offering ample opportunities for touring cyclists.

Yes, a significant highlight for touring cyclists is the Route Verte, North America's largest cycling network. A 30 km section of this route runs through Laval, allowing cyclists to traverse the island and connect to regions like the Laurentians and Lanaudière. Other routes like La Vagabonde also offer longer scenic rides.

Laval's cycling routes offer varied terrain. Many paths are paved, especially along riverfronts and in urban areas. Some interregional paths, like La Seigneurie des Plaines, may include gravel sections. The landscape is generally characterized by riverfront paths, urban green spaces, and woodlands, rather than significant elevation changes.

Yes, Laval offers numerous routes suitable for families and cyclists of varying skill levels. Many paths are designed to be easy and traffic-free, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. The Centre de la Nature, for example, offers cycling paths within a green urban oasis.

Laval's routes often run alongside the picturesque Rivière des Mille-Îles and Rivière des Prairies, offering beautiful water views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. You can also explore urban woodlands like Bois de Naples and Bois de l'Équerre, or visit Parc de la Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, a protected wildlife area.

While cycling, you might encounter serene spots like Revollat Cross, offering scenic views. The region also features natural monuments such as Dent de Crolles and Lake Crozet, and even a Pissou Waterfall, providing diverse points of interest.

Cyclists can take a cultural break in charming Old Sainte-Rose, known for its historic atmosphere. The Route Verte also passes by educational attractions like the Cosmodome and the Armand-Frappier Health Museum, offering unique stops to diversify your touring itinerary.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from nearly 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of well-maintained paths, the scenic riverfront views, and the accessibility to diverse natural and urban attractions.

Yes, Laval's cycling network caters to various skill levels. While there are 42 easy and 45 moderate routes, a significant portion, 87 routes, are considered difficult, offering challenges for more experienced touring cyclists. This ensures options for everyone from beginners to advanced riders.

Yes, the Route Verte provides opportunities to detour to local farms, allowing cyclists to experience local flavors and agricultural heritage. This is a great way to combine your ride with a taste of the region's produce.

Laval offers several pleasant spots for breaks. Parks like Centre de la Nature and Parc Bernard-Landry provide picnic areas and tranquil settings. Riverside parks such as Berge des Baigneurs and Berge aux Quatre-Vents also offer serene escapes with amenities for relaxation.

Absolutely. The 50-hectare Centre de la Nature is a green oasis with cycling paths, tropical greenhouses, and a farm. Bois de l'Équerre offers nearly 13 kilometers of trails through diverse natural areas, perfect for birdwatching and a peaceful ride.