3.7
(9)
255
riders
53
rides
Touring cycling around Novacelles offers routes through a preserved green valley, with the Dolore river flowing through it. The region provides views of the Forez mountains and is characterized by unspoiled forests and winding rivers. This area, part of the broader Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, features unique volcanic landscapes, creating varied terrain for cyclists.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
13
riders
45.1km
02:45
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
41.6km
02:48
650m
650m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
11
riders
46.6km
03:50
720m
720m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
7
riders
42.0km
02:51
730m
730m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The Saint-Jean church is a catholic church in Ambert. It was built between 1471 and 1518. It is classified as a historical monument.
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This pretty little town of barely 100 inhabitants is located on the watershed line of the Arzon basin. The town has a stopover lodge and an inn to accommodate travellers. Don't miss a stop to see its church and chapel.
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The abbey of La Chaise-Dieu is a former Benedictine abbey. It is a jewel of southern Gothic. Located in the village of La Chaise-Dieu, it was built during the 11th century. The complex is made up of several buildings gathered around a cloister. Complete visits are organized. Information can be found here: https://www.abbaye-chaise-dieu.com/visites/
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The village of La Chaise-Dieu is nestled on a granite promontory, more than 1000 meters above sea level. Saint-Robert Abbey and its Sacred Music Festival are worth the detour.
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The "La Poule Rouge" and "L'Ane Bleu" paths are green corridors between the Masse district and the Ribbe bridge.
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A must see with a beautiful view when arriving in the village.
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There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Novacelles, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes explore the preserved green valley of the Dolore river, unspoiled forests, and provide views of the Forez mountains.
The terrain around Novacelles is varied, characterized by a preserved green valley, unspoiled forests, and views of the Forez mountains. As part of the broader Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, you'll encounter unique volcanic landscapes, which can lead to challenging routes with significant elevation gain, as well as easier paths through the valleys.
Yes, Novacelles offers several easier touring cycling routes. For instance, there are 3 routes classified as easy. While specific beginner routes are not detailed in the top recommendations, the overall network includes options for varying ability levels, allowing you to find paths that suit a more relaxed pace.
While cycling around Novacelles, you can enjoy views of the Forez mountains and the preserved green valley of the Dolore river. The broader Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is known for its unique volcanic landscapes and unspoiled forests. You might also encounter natural features like the Gomot Waterfall or enjoy a View of Saint-Germain-l'Herm.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Novacelles are designed as loops. For example, the route Ambert – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from Arlanc is a popular circular option, as is the Saint-Robert Abbey Church – La Chaise-Dieu loop from Arlanc. These allow you to start and finish in the same location.
The best time for touring cycling in Novacelles is generally during the warmer months, from spring to early autumn. This period offers pleasant weather for exploring the green valleys, forests, and volcanic landscapes. The region's Mediterranean flora in lower areas is particularly vibrant during these seasons.
While many routes in Novacelles feature significant elevation gain, there are easier paths available that could be suitable for families. It's recommended to check the difficulty grade and elevation profile of specific routes, like the 3 easy routes available, to ensure they match your family's cycling abilities.
While cycling, you can discover local heritage elements such as ancient lavognes (animal drinking places), enclosed fields, and old bread ovens. Specific historical sites include the Issandolanges Ruins, an abandoned village, and the Romanesque church in Novacelles itself, known for its 14th-century frescoes.
Many touring cycling routes around Novacelles, being loops, often start and end in villages like Arlanc or La Vaisse, where parking facilities are typically available. For example, the route Ambert – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from La Vaisse suggests a starting point with potential parking.
The touring cycling routes in Novacelles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars from more than 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the preserved green valleys, unspoiled forests, and the varied terrain that offers both challenging climbs and scenic views of the Forez mountains and volcanic landscapes.
The village of Novacelles and surrounding towns like Arlanc, which serve as starting points for many routes, offer amenities including cafes and restaurants. These provide convenient stops for refreshments and meals during or after your cycling tour.
While the region is known for its natural beauty, public transport options directly to Novacelles village for starting a cycling tour might be limited. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for buses or trains to nearby larger towns in the Puy-de-Dôme department and plan your connection to Novacelles accordingly.


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