The best cycling routes around Lac du Bourget

The region offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll find flat, dedicated bike lanes along the eastern lakeside, such as the Cap des Séselets Beach – Aix-les-Bains Beach loop from Aix-les-Bains, ideal for relaxed rides. For those seeking a challenge, the western side features significant mountain ascents like the Col du Chat and Mont du Chat, offering demanding climbs and breathtaking views. The overall scenery includes glacial lake shores, wetlands, alluvial forests, alpine meadows, and picturesque vineyards.

Yes, the "Voie Verte du Lac du Bourget" is particularly well-suited for families. It's largely flat, secure, and separated from car traffic, making it ideal for relaxed rides. This greenway connects areas like Aix-les-Bains to Le Bourget-du-Lac and extends towards Chambéry, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.

Lac du Bourget offers numerous points of interest. You can cycle past the majestic Abbaye d'Hautecombe, a historical necropolis on the lake's shoreline. Panoramic viewpoints include the climb to Col du Chat, the bird's-eye view of Hautecombe Abbey from Ontex, and La Chambotte lookout point. Mont Revard also offers an overhanging glass walkway with exceptional vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains.

The most popular touring route, the Tour of Lac du Bourget, is approximately 55 km (34.3 miles) long and typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete. This route includes varied terrain from lakeside paths to mountain ascents.

The region is well-equipped with amenities. Key towns like Aix-les-Bains serve as excellent starting points with various facilities. Additionally, numerous charming lakeside villages such as Le Bourget-du-Lac, Bourdeau, and Conjux offer opportunities for breaks, refreshments, and meals along your cycling journey. Chanaz, often called the "Venice of Savoy," is another delightful village accessible via the Savières Canal.

Lac du Bourget generally enjoys pleasant weather year-round, making it suitable for touring cycling for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides warmer conditions ideal for combining cycling with lake activities. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists, the western side of the lake presents demanding ascents. The Col du Chat involves a 7 km climb with 368 meters of elevation gain. Even more challenging is Mont du Chat, which is sometimes referred to as one of France's toughest climbs, offering significant elevation and rewarding views for those who tackle it.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1600 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil lakeside paths to challenging mountain ascents, and the stunning backdrop of France's largest natural lake framed by impressive mountain ranges. The well-developed cycling infrastructure, including dedicated greenways, is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, many routes around Lac du Bourget are designed as loops. The most prominent is the Tour of Lac du Bourget, which is a complete circuit around the lake. Other popular circular options include the Cap des Séselets Beach – Aix-les-Bains Beach loop from Aix-les-Bains for an easier ride, and the Lake Bourget – To linger loop from Brison, which takes you through charming lakeside villages.

Yes, bike hire options are available in the region, particularly in key towns like Aix-les-Bains. This allows visitors to easily access and enjoy the diverse touring cycling routes around Lac du Bourget without needing to bring their own equipment.