The best traffic-free bike rides around Buissard

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Buissard, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists looking to explore the beautiful Hautes-Alpes region away from cars.

The trails around Buissard offer diverse terrain, from riverbanks and agricultural fields to more challenging mountain passes. You can expect significant elevation gains, with routes like the L eterlou – Great street, great view loop from La Fare-en-Champsaur featuring over 1200 meters of ascent. This variety provides both scenic rides and more strenuous climbs, often leading to panoramic views.

While many routes in the area are rated as 'difficult' due to elevation and length, the region's varied landscape means there are sections suitable for different skill levels. For a scenic ride with moderate elevation, consider the Plateau de Libouze – Viewpoint loop from Ancelle, which covers about 24 km with around 570 meters of climbing. It's always best to check the route details to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for gravel biking around Buissard. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery is vibrant. During these seasons, you'll find fewer tourists and quieter trails, especially on mountain passes like the Col de Moissière (1573 m), which are known for their limited traffic and panoramic vistas.

Many trails offer stunning views and pass by notable landmarks. For example, the Canal Promenade – View of Lake Jaussauds loop from Chabottes offers beautiful views of Lake Jaussauds. You might also encounter mountain passes like the Col de Gleize (1691 m) or enjoy expansive views towards Gleize Peak and the Dévoluy massif.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Buissard are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Balcon de Chaillol – Chaillol 1600 loop from Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol, which offers a challenging ride with significant elevation, and the View of Lake Jaussauds – Walk Along the Canal de Gap loop from Chabottes, providing a scenic circuit.

The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel trails around Buissard, with an average score of 4.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the car-free routes, and the rewarding panoramic views from mountain passes and viewpoints. The sense of immersion in nature, especially near Écrins National Park, is frequently highlighted.

Absolutely! The region is rich in scenic viewpoints. The Plateau de Libouze – Viewpoint loop from Ancelle is specifically named for its views. Mountain passes like the Col de Moissière (1573 m) are renowned for their panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks, offering breathtaking stops during your ride.

While the trails themselves focus on natural, no-traffic areas, many routes pass through or near charming villages in the Champsaur Valley. These villages, such as Saint-Bonnet-en-Champsaur, often have local cafes, bakeries, or small shops where you can refuel and enjoy a break. It's always a good idea to check village amenities beforehand.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Buissard vary in length and duration. You can find routes ranging from approximately 23 km to over 45 km. For instance, the Balcon de Chaillol – Chaillol 1600 loop is about 23 km, while the L eterlou – Great street, great view loop extends to over 45 km. Durations can range from 2 to 4 hours or more, depending on your pace and the elevation gain.

Many of the trails start from or pass through villages like Ancelle, Saint-Michel-de-Chaillol, La Fare-en-Champsaur, or Chabottes. These locations typically offer public parking facilities, making it convenient to access the no-traffic gravel routes. Always look for designated parking areas to ensure a smooth start to your ride.