The best road cycling routes around Colombier

There are over 110 road cycling routes in the Colombier region, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate climbs to very challenging ascents through the Jura and Aravis ranges.

The region is famous for its demanding climbs, notably the Col du Grand Colombier and the Col de la Colombière. The Col du Grand Colombier, located in the Jura, reaches 1501m and features gradients up to 22%. The Col de la Colombière in the Aravis range climbs to 1613m, with sections reaching 10.5% in the final kilometers.

Yes, on select Saturdays between June and September, the climb via Culoz and Anglefort on the Col du Grand Colombier is closed to car traffic. This provides a unique opportunity to experience this legendary ascent on car-free roads. For specific dates, you might check local tourism resources like Bugey Sud Tourisme.

The road cycling routes in Colombier offer incredibly diverse and dramatic landscapes. You'll traverse lush greenery and impressive peaks in the Jura Mountains, with panoramic views of Lac du Bourget and even the Mont Blanc massif from the summit of the Grand Colombier. The Aravis range provides a stunning backdrop for the Colombière climb, featuring rugged, mineral scenery and pine forests.

While Colombier is known for its challenging mountain passes, there are a few easier options available. The region offers 6 routes classified as 'easy' and 64 as 'moderate', providing less strenuous rides through varied terrain. These routes allow you to enjoy the beautiful scenery without tackling the steepest ascents.

The road cycling routes in Colombier are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging mountain passes, the dense forests, and the panoramic views that define the region's cycling experience.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Colombier are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Col de la République – Chaubouret Cross loop from Bourg-Argental is a popular circular route, as is the Pavezin Pass – Grenouze Pass loop from Saint-Appolinard.

Beyond the iconic cols, you can explore several natural and man-made attractions. The region features beautiful lakes such as Ternay Dam and Lake and Lake Ternay. You might also encounter significant passes like Col de l'Œillon (1233 m) or summits like Crêt de l'Œillon, offering stunning views.

The best time for road cycling in Colombier is generally from late spring to early autumn (June to September), when the weather is most favorable and mountain passes are clear of snow. This period also includes the special car-free days on the Col du Grand Colombier.

Yes, the region offers several routes that provide extensive riding. For instance, the Pavezin Pass – Grenouze Pass loop from Saint-Appolinard covers over 67 kilometers, offering a significant challenge for those looking for longer distances.

Colombier's uniqueness stems from its combination of historically significant and physically demanding climbs, such as those featured in the Tour de France, and the dramatic beauty of the Jura and Aravis mountain ranges. The varied terrain, from shaded forests to exposed peaks, coupled with panoramic views, creates an exceptional and memorable cycling experience.

While the focus is on mountain passes, routes often pass near or through local communities. For example, the region around Col de la Colombière includes the village of Le Grand-Bornand, known for its authentic Haute-Savoyard experience and 400 chalets, offering a glimpse into local culture amidst your ride.