The best traffic-free bike rides around Nasbinals

This guide features 9 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Nasbinals. The wider Aubrac region, however, boasts over 230 km of marked circuits, offering a vast network of tranquil gravel tracks and small, bucolic roads away from traffic.

The Aubrac plateau, where Nasbinals is located, offers a unique and varied terrain. You'll encounter expansive pastures, gentle hills, and ancient landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Routes often feature a mix of gravel tracks, dirt paths, and some paved sections, with basalt formations adding to the rugged beauty. Some sections might even be sandy, adding to the challenge.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Nasbinals are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Aubrac Ox Statue – Gournier bridge loop from Nasbinals is a challenging 42 km circular route, and the Aubrac Ox Statue – Saint Urcize loop from Nasbinals offers another circular option.

The trails vary in difficulty. This guide includes 2 moderate and 7 difficult routes. For instance, the Croix de La Rode – Aubrac Pass loop from Aubrac is a difficult 46.5 km route with over 680 meters of elevation gain, requiring good fitness. There are also options like the Route de l'Aubrac – Croix de La Rode loop from Cascade du Déroc, which is a moderate 31 km ride.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore sites like the stunning Cascade du Déroc, a waterfall rushing over basalt columns, or the Basalt Columns of the Ruisseau des Plèches. The Signal de Mailhebiau offers panoramic views of the Aubrac plateau. Many routes provide opportunities to witness the expansive, timeless landscapes of the plateau.

Yes, Nasbinals itself is a charming village with traditional granite and basalt houses. You can visit the superb Romanesque Eglise de Sainte-Marie de Nasbinals, a significant stop on the Way of St. James. Other nearby attractions include the Pilgrims' Bridge of Saint-Chély-d'Aubrac and the Sainte-Marie d'Aubrac Church.

The Aubrac plateau is beautiful throughout the year, but for gravel biking, spring to autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable conditions. Spring brings lush green pastures, while autumn showcases vibrant colors. The region can experience significant snowfall in winter, transforming the landscape into a picturesque scene suitable for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, but making gravel biking more challenging.

While many routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the broader network of marked circuits around Nasbinals includes options for various skill levels. For families, it's advisable to look for easier, shorter routes that stick to less challenging gravel tracks. Always check the route details for distance and elevation before heading out with children.

Nasbinals, being a hub for outdoor activities, typically offers parking facilities within or on the outskirts of the village. Many routes start directly from Nasbinals, making it convenient to park your vehicle and begin your ride. Specific parking information for individual trailheads can often be found in the detailed route descriptions on komoot.

Yes, Nasbinals is a well-equipped village with good infrastructure. You'll find shops, restaurants, and various accommodation options, including gîtes d'étape (pilgrim hostels) and hotels, making it a convenient base for your gravel biking adventures. These amenities are perfect for refueling and relaxing after exploring the Aubrac plateau.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Nasbinals, with an average score of 3.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning, expansive landscapes of the Aubrac plateau, the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, and the sense of wild nature encountered off the beaten path. The varied terrain and challenging climbs are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.