The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Halles

This guide features 6 carefully selected no-traffic gravel bike trails. While the guide title mentions Les Halles, these specific routes are actually located in the beautiful countryside near Lyon, offering a true escape from urban traffic for gravel biking.

The trails in this guide range from moderate to difficult. There is 1 moderate route, the Gravel loop from Aveize, and 5 difficult routes, such as the challenging View of Saint-Laurent – Chapelle Saint-Bonnet loop from Saint-Clément-les-Places.

Given the moderate to difficult ratings of the routes, most are better suited for experienced gravel bikers. The Gravel loop from Aveize is the most accessible option, but families with younger children or beginners might find it still quite challenging due to its elevation gain.

The trails in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes and the scenic countryside views away from urban areas.

Yes, all the routes listed in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the View of Saint-Laurent – Chapelle Saint-Bonnet loop from Saint-Clément-les-Places and the Gravel loop from Aveize.

While these routes focus on natural landscapes, you can find several points of interest nearby. Highlights include the Col de la Croix de Mazieux, the charming settlement of Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise, and the scenic Croix-de-Part Pass, offering great views.

The routes provided are located in a rural area near Lyon, not directly accessible from Les Halles in Paris. Public transport options to the starting points of these specific trails (like Saint-Clément-les-Places or Aveize) might be limited, and a car is generally recommended for convenience.

For routes starting in villages like Saint-Clément-les-Places or Aveize, you can typically find public parking in the village centers. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for specific parking regulations.

Small villages like Saint-Clément-les-Places and Aveize often have local cafes or small shops where you can grab refreshments. However, options might be limited, especially outside peak season, so it's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in this region, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, and winter might bring colder, potentially wet or icy conditions, making some trails more challenging.

Most of the trails in this guide are rated as 'difficult' due to significant elevation changes and technical sections. While the Gravel loop from Aveize is moderate, true beginners to gravel biking might find even this challenging. It's recommended to have some prior gravel biking experience.