The best traffic-free bike rides around La Salette-Fallavaux

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around La Salette-Fallavaux, offering a range of challenging rides through the stunning French Alps. Most of these routes are classified as difficult, with one moderate option.

The no-traffic routes in La Salette-Fallavaux are characterized by demanding alpine terrain with significant elevation gains. You'll encounter challenging climbs, such as the ascent to the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de La Salette, and passes like Col du Noyer with steep gradients. The roads are generally well-paved, offering a smooth cycling experience amidst breathtaking panoramic views.

Yes, several no-traffic routes are designed as loops. For instance, you can try the Corps – Sanctuary of La Salette loop from Les Côtes-de-Corps, which covers 34.7 km with over 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another option is the longer Parquetout Pass – Parquetout Pass loop from Valbonnais, spanning 73.7 km with over 2400 meters of climbing.

The village of Corps often serves as a convenient starting point for various routes, including those leading to La Salette and Col de Parquetout. Other routes may start from locations like Valbonnais or Saint-Maurice-en-Valgodemard, offering access to different parts of the region's no-traffic network.

Many routes offer spectacular views and pass by significant landmarks. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of La Salette itself is a major highlight, situated at nearly 1,800 meters with superb panoramic views. You might also encounter mountain passes like Parquetout Pass or Plan Collet Pass, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding French Alps and Valgaudemar Valley.

The best season for road cycling in La Salette-Fallavaux is typically from late spring to early autumn. During these months, the alpine pastures are in bloom, and the weather is generally more favorable for tackling the high-altitude roads and passes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially for routes at higher elevations.

While most routes are challenging, there is one moderate no-traffic option: the Parquetout Pass – Col de Parquetout viewpoint loop from Valbonnais. This route covers 19.6 km with 829 meters of elevation gain, offering a taste of the alpine scenery without the most extreme demands.

The no-traffic road cycling routes in La Salette-Fallavaux are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from 58 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the well-paved surfaces, and the breathtaking, serene alpine landscapes that make for an unforgettable cycling experience.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Parquetout Pass – Parquetout Pass loop from Valbonnais extend for 73.7 km with over 2400 meters of climbing. Another substantial option is the La Chaup – Le Drac loop from Saint-Maurice-en-Valgodemard, which is 66.3 km long and features over 1200 meters of ascent.

The village of Corps, often a starting point for many routes, offers amenities such as cafes and accommodation. Given the region's popularity, especially with pilgrims visiting the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de La Salette, you can find options for refreshments and lodging in the surrounding towns and villages.

While specific public transport details for each starting point are not provided, the region is part of the French Alps, and access to smaller villages like Corps might involve regional bus services. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the Isère department if you plan to rely on public transport to reach your starting point.

The more difficult no-traffic routes feature significant elevation gains. For example, the Corps – Sanctuary of La Salette loop from Saint-Firmin involves over 1400 meters of climbing over 49.9 km, while the Parquetout Pass – Parquetout Pass loop from Valbonnais boasts over 2400 meters of ascent across 73.7 km.