The best traffic-free bike rides in Livradois-Forez

The Livradois-Forez region offers a fantastic selection of nearly 90 no-traffic gravel bike trails. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 10 easy, 34 moderate, and 41 difficult options, ensuring there's something for every gravel cyclist looking for quiet paths.

You'll encounter a diverse range of terrain, from wide forest tracks to narrower paths, challenging ascents, and exhilarating descents. The region is characterized by its mountain ranges (Livradois and Forez), high-altitude moorlands like the Hautes-Chaumes du Forez, and deep forests. For optimal comfort and grip, a gravel bike with tire widths of 40mm, or even 42 to 47mm for tubeless setups, is recommended.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in Livradois-Forez are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Plateau du Livradois-Forez – Col des Supeyres loop, which offers a moderate challenge and stunning views.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy grandiose views of the Monts d'Auvergne, the Chaîne des Puys, and the Sancy from elevated points like the Col des Supeyres. Other notable features include the deep forests, picturesque valleys of the Dore and Credogne rivers, and unique volcanic formations such as the Montpeloux volcano. The Puy de Montoncel also offers panoramic vistas.

The Livradois-Forez is a great destination year-round, but for gravel biking specifically, spring, summer, and early autumn generally offer the most pleasant weather conditions. During these seasons, the extensive trail networks are fully accessible, and you can best enjoy the natural landscapes. To truly avoid traffic, focus on the dedicated gravel routes and forest tracks that are less frequented by vehicles.

While many routes in Livradois-Forez can be challenging, there are easier options suitable for families, especially those with some biking experience. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' in the guide, which tend to have less elevation gain and smoother surfaces. For instance, the guide includes 10 easy routes that could be suitable for a family outing.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Livradois-Forez, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 60 ratings. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and well-preserved natural landscapes, the quietness of the trails, and the stunning panoramic views, especially from the Monts du Forez.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region offers several difficult routes, some extending over 35 km with significant elevation gain. An example is the Hôtel des Touristes – Col du reculon loop, which covers over 50 km and features substantial climbs, providing a rewarding experience for advanced gravel bikers.

While many of the no-traffic routes venture into remote natural areas, you'll find villages and small towns scattered throughout the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park. These often have local cafes, bakeries, or small restaurants where you can refuel. It's always a good idea to plan your route and check for amenities in advance, especially on longer rides.

The Livradois-Forez is home to several impressive mountain passes that are popular with gravel cyclists. Key passes include the Col des Supeyres, the Béal Pass, and the Col des Pradeaux. These passes often serve as excellent starting points or scenic highlights on many gravel routes.

Access to the more remote no-traffic gravel trails in Livradois-Forez can be challenging via public transport, as services are less frequent in rural areas. However, some larger towns within or bordering the park, such as Thiers, Ambert, or Issoire, may have train or bus connections. From these points, you might need to cycle to reach the trailheads. Planning your journey in advance is highly recommended.

Beyond the natural beauty, you might encounter historical sites or unique attractions. For example, the Old Town of Thiers – Historic Center of Thiers loop allows you to explore the rich heritage of Thiers. The region also features charming villages and traces of ancient volcanism, adding cultural interest to your ride.