The best road cycling routes around Saint-Denis
4.3
(149)
3,841
riders
65
rides
Road cycling routes around Saint-Denis offer diverse terrain across Réunion Island's volcanic landscapes. The region features a dramatic coastline, including dedicated cycling paths along the Indian Ocean, and challenging ascents into the island's interior. Cyclists encounter varied elevations, from sea-level routes to roads leading towards higher cirques and volcanic areas. The infrastructure includes well-paved surfaces suitable for road bikes, providing access to both scenic coastal views and demanding mountain climbs.
Best road cycling routes around Saint-Denis
- The most popular road…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
5.0
(4)
198
riders
56.4km
03:33
1,570m
1,570m
This difficult 35.1-mile road cycling route from Chatillon to Cervinia offers a challenging climb with stunning views of the Matterhorn and
4.8
(6)
114
riders
37.6km
02:31
1,210m
1,210m
This difficult 23.3-mile (37.6 km) road cycling loop from Châtillon climbs Col Saint Pantaleon, offering Matterhorn views and 3984 feet of g
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5
riders
15.6km
01:07
530m
530m
This moderate 9.7-mile road cycling loop from Chambave offers challenging climbs, panoramic Aosta Valley views, and low traffic.
1
riders
14.7km
00:44
190m
190m
This easy 9.1-mile road cycling loop along the Dora Baltea river from Chambave offers scenic views of vineyards, villages, and mountains.
3.9
(9)
141
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The hamlet of Le Bourg can be easily reached by bicycle, passing under the highway overpass. The village is worth a visit for its characteristic keeled-arch windows, frescoes, and ancient signs that tell the story of the town. Also not to be missed is the church of San Rocco, perched on a rocky outcrop and offering a panoramic view of the valley.
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Mandatory passage for the Valle de Clavaritè from Fenils...
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Beautiful bridge connecting Hone to Bard. Magnificent view of the fort.
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While traveling along the Via Francigena, on the stretch from Arnad to Bard, you cross this characteristic three-arched pedestrian bridge. On the left orogr. area with a bench for rest.
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The Roman road of the Gauls, built to connect Rome with the Rhone Valley, has in the Donnas section one of its most characteristic and spectacular points, carved out of the living rock over a length of 221 metres. In a place where in ancient times the rocky promontory plunged into the waters of the Dora, the Romans launched a real challenge to nature by carving out a living rock on which they could draw perfectly vertical walls and in whose bosom they cut the roadbed. Exciting and unusual, here the Via delle Gallie gives its best by offering the spectacle of a vaulted passage 4 metres thick, 4 metres high and almost 3 metres wide that eloquently illustrates the amount of rock removed and shows all the refinement of a road engineering never again achieved until viaducts and modern tunnels. In the Middle Ages it served as a gate to the village, which was closed at night; The other defences were of course: on one side the mountain and on the other the river. A fundamental road, much used over the centuries, as evidenced by the deep ruts left by the passage of carts and the wear of the walking surface that has been patched and repaired at various points over time. A little further on, on the right, we recognise the excellent profile of a milestone, also spared in the rocky bank, which informs us of the distance to Augusta Praetoria (the current city of Aosta): XXXVI miles (about 54 km).
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This stretch of cycle path that runs along a stretch of river (Dora Baltea) is very special.
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The origin of this bridge is uncertain, but it was probably built in Roman times. The first documents mentioning this bridge date from the second half of the 13th century. From 1272 onwards, the bridge was called Hôhne Bridge or Bard Bridge in Latin and then in Old French. Apart from its history, the bridge is a beautiful photo point of Fort Bard.
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The legend of Lago Blu says that long ago, where the Blue Lake is today, there was a small house where a family of shepherds lived. One night, a poor traveler came to visit and knocked on their door, seeking food and shelter. The young shepherdess turned him away, but her son could not bear the thought of this selfish act. He tried to give the traveler his own bowl of milk, but his parents did not allow it and gave the man a bowl of dirty water instead. The parents even punished their son for going against their will and sent him out into the forest that very night to collect wood. He managed to collect a lot of wood without being attacked by wild animals, and when he returned home, he was horrified to find that his house was no longer there. A lake had swallowed him and with him his entire family. As the boy grew up and started his own family and village, they were known to be friendly, hospitable people who always welcomed strangers. Source: https://dooid.it/en/the-matterhorns-magnificent-blue-lake-in-aosta-valley/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Saint-Denis?
There are over 60 road cycling routes around Saint-Denis, catering to various skill levels. This includes 6 easy routes, 26 moderate routes, and 32 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.
Are there any easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Saint-Denis offers several easy routes. The Dora Baltea Cycle Path is a great option, providing a relatively flat ride of about 14.7 km with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed experience along the coast. The region's coastal paths, like the North Coastal Path, are also generally suitable for families.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Saint-Denis's volcanic terrain offers demanding ascents. The Châtillon to Breuil-Cervinia Climb is a difficult 56.4 km route with over 1500 meters of elevation gain, providing a strenuous but rewarding ride through mountainous landscapes. Routes leading towards the cirques also offer substantial climbs.
Are there scenic road cycling routes with ocean views?
Absolutely. Saint-Denis is known for its dramatic coastline. The Nouvelle Route du Littoral features a dedicated cycling path offering uninterrupted ocean views. While not explicitly listed in the routes, the general coastal areas provide stunning vistas of the Indian Ocean.
Can I find circular road cycling routes in the Saint-Denis area?
Yes, several routes offer a loop experience. The Chambave - Colle San Pantaleone - Torgnon Loop is a challenging 37.6 km route that takes you through varied terrain. For a moderate option, consider the Chambave - Col San Pantaleone - Torgnon Loop, a shorter 15.6 km loop.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while road cycling around Saint-Denis?
Road cycling around Saint-Denis offers incredibly diverse landscapes. You'll encounter dramatic coastlines with ocean views, challenging volcanic terrain with significant ascents, and lush tropical forests as you approach the island's famous cirques like Salazie. The routes often pass through sugarcane fields and offer panoramic vistas over the capital and the ocean.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Saint-Denis?
The road cycling routes around Saint-Denis are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning panoramic views, the variety of terrain from coastal paths to challenging mountain climbs, and the unique blend of natural beauty and cultural immersion.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes?
While cycling, you can explore various points of interest. Nearby attractions include several historical castles such as Fénis Castle and Saint-Marcel Castle. You might also pass by beautiful lakes like Lago di Lod and Lake Ville, offering scenic stops.
Are there any routes that lead to or near the famous cirques of Réunion Island?
Yes, some road cycling routes provide access to the peripheries of Réunion's magnificent cirques. The Chambave - Colle San Pantaleone - Torgnon Loop, for example, leads through lush cirques and tropical forests, offering spectacular views and demanding ascents as you approach these unique geological formations.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Saint-Denis?
Réunion Island generally offers good cycling conditions year-round due to its tropical climate. However, the cooler, drier months from May to November are often preferred, as they provide more comfortable temperatures for longer rides and less chance of heavy rainfall, especially in the mountainous interior.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass by waterfalls?
While specific routes are not listed, the region's lush interior and cirques are known for their waterfalls. Cycling routes that traverse areas of dense tropical forest, particularly in the east of the island or within the cirques, may offer views of natural attractions like the Cascade du Voile de la Mariée (Bride's Veil Waterfall).
Can I access road cycling trails using public transport in Saint-Denis?
Saint-Denis has a public transport network, and while specific routes are not detailed, many coastal areas and town centers are accessible. For routes further inland or in more remote areas, it's advisable to check local bus schedules and bike transport policies, or consider driving to a starting point with parking.
Are there good viewpoints along the road cycling routes in Saint-Denis?
Many road cycling routes in Saint-Denis offer excellent viewpoints. The coastal paths provide expansive ocean vistas, while ascents into the highlands, such as the area leading to Colorado Park, offer panoramic views over the capital and the surrounding dramatic landscapes. Routes leading to the cirques also feature breathtaking scenic overlooks.
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