The best traffic-free bike rides around Avignon-Lès-Saint-Claude

There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Avignon-Lès-Saint-Claude area, offering a wide range of options for cyclists looking for peaceful rides. These routes vary in difficulty, with 2 easy, 16 moderate, and 12 difficult options to explore.

The routes around Avignon-Lès-Saint-Claude are rich in natural beauty, often passing through the stunning Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park. You can discover impressive waterfalls like the Flumen Waterfall and the Combes Waterfall. The region also features beautiful lakes, including Lac de Lamoura, known for its preserved natural setting and opportunities for swimming and picnicking.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the challenging Cinquétral Climb – Longchaumois loop from Cinquétral offers a 27.4 km ride with significant elevation changes, perfect for experienced cyclists.

The best time for touring cycling in the Jura region, including Avignon-Lès-Saint-Claude, is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

While many routes in the immediate vicinity are moderate to difficult, the broader Jura region offers options like sections of the EuroVélo 6, which are known for being relatively flat and safe along the River Doubs, making them suitable for families. For routes directly around Avignon-Lès-Saint-Claude, look for the 'easy' graded tours, though these are fewer in number (2 out of 30).

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 76 ratings. Reviewers often praise the stunning natural landscapes of the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, the quiet roads, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that offer breathtaking viewpoints.

Yes, some routes offer the chance to pass through or near charming local towns. For instance, the challenging Haut-Crêt pass – The Pipe of Saint-Claude loop from Saint-Claude starts from Saint-Claude, which is only 4.9 km from Avignon-Lès-Saint-Claude and offers various amenities and local crafts.

Absolutely. The region is known for its varied terrain, offering plenty of challenging climbs. For example, the Cernaise Viewpoint – Beautiful forest trail loop from Septmoncel les Molunes is a difficult 66.3 km route with over 1500 meters of elevation gain, providing a demanding experience for advanced touring cyclists.

Given the varied terrain and potential for changing weather in the Jura, it's advisable to bring appropriate cycling gear, including layers of clothing, rain protection, a repair kit, sufficient water, and snacks. A helmet is essential, and a GPS device or a fully charged phone with offline maps is highly recommended for navigation.

Many routes offer spectacular viewpoints over the Jura landscape. The Cernaise Viewpoint – Beautiful forest trail loop from Septmoncel les Molunes, as its name suggests, includes a notable viewpoint. The region's high combes and passes frequently provide panoramic vistas of limestone gorges, high-altitude forests, and deep valleys.

These routes are specifically curated to minimize interaction with motorized traffic, often utilizing dedicated cycle paths, quiet country lanes, or forest roads where vehicle access is restricted. This focus ensures a more serene and safer cycling experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings of the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park.