The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Flour

There are over 150 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Saint-Flour listed on komoot. These routes offer a wide range of experiences, from easy spins to challenging mountain ascents, ensuring a suitable option for every cyclist.

The terrain around Saint-Flour is incredibly diverse due to its volcanic origins. You'll encounter everything from undulating hills and pine forests to dramatic basalt cliffs and volcanic plateaus. Routes can feature significant elevation changes, especially as you approach the Cantal Mountains, but there are also flatter sections along river valleys and around lakes.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. For example, the Narse de Lascols et Monts du Cantal — loop in the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park is an easy 19 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely outing.

The summer months, from June to August, offer mild temperatures averaging between 15 and 18°C, which are ideal for touring cycling. Spring and early autumn can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and beautiful scenery, though you should be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially more variable weather.

The region is rich in natural and historical sights. You might cycle past the impressive Garabit Viaduct, an engineering marvel by Gustave Eiffel. Natural highlights include the dramatic Truyère gorges and views of volcanic peaks like Puy Mary Summit and Plomb du Cantal. The historic upper town of Saint-Flour itself, with its black lava stone cathedral, offers superb views.

Many of the no-traffic touring routes around Saint-Flour are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example of a challenging circular route is the Tour of Lac de Sarrans, which covers over 44 km with significant elevation.

The routes vary significantly in difficulty. Out of 158 routes, 5 are rated easy, 53 are moderate, and 100 are difficult. This means there are plenty of options for experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, such as the Saint Juéry, Saint Urcize and Chaudes Aigues loop, which features over 950 meters of elevation gain.

The no-traffic touring routes in Saint-Flour are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 250 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning volcanic landscapes, the quiet roads, and the diverse challenges offered by the terrain.

Absolutely. The region's volcanic peaks and dramatic gorges provide numerous opportunities for breathtaking views. The Roches terrace in Saint-Flour offers panoramic vistas of the lower town and Margeride mountains. Many routes, especially those climbing into the Cantal Mountains, will reward you with expansive views of the Massif Central.

While Saint-Flour has some public transport connections, direct access to the start points of all no-traffic touring routes might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for specific routes if you plan to use public transport. Many cyclists choose to drive to Saint-Flour and start their tours from there.

In Saint-Flour and surrounding villages, you can typically find public parking areas. For specific routes, it's best to check the route details on komoot, as many routes will indicate suitable parking spots near the starting point. Always ensure you park responsibly and legally.