The best road cycling routes around Villard-De-Lans

The Villard-de-Lans area, situated within the Vercors Regional Natural Park, offers a diverse road cycling experience. You'll encounter a mix of mountainous terrain, plains, and forests. The region is particularly known for its dramatic gorges, such as the Furon and Bourne, and numerous mountain passes like Col d'Herbouilly, providing varied elevation gains and scenic curves. Routes range from gentle rides across plateaus to challenging ascents.

Yes, while many routes feature significant elevation, there are options for less experienced cyclists. The region offers 6 easy routes and 13 moderate routes. For example, the Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte – Lans-en-Vercors loop from Villard-de-Lans is a moderate route with manageable elevation, offering scenic views without extreme difficulty.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Villard-de-Lans has 11 difficult routes. Notable challenging options include the Bourne Gorge – Bourne Gorge loop from La Font de la Maie, which covers nearly 96 km with over 1600 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding ride is the Bourne Gorge – Col d'Herbouilly loop from La Balmette, traversing the dramatic Bourne Gorge and including the climb to Col d'Herbouilly.

May and July are particularly popular months for cycling in Villard-de-Lans. The Vercors region offers pleasant conditions during late spring, summer, and early autumn. However, it's always advisable to check local weather forecasts, especially when planning to tackle mountain passes, as conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations.

While the guide focuses on road cycling, the broader Vercors area, including Villard-de-Lans, offers more gentle cycling paths. The Via Vercors, for instance, is a 50km-long cycle route known for its gentle gradients, viewing points, and unique wooden visors, making it a lovely alternative for families or those seeking a relaxed ride.

The Vercors Regional Natural Park is rich in natural beauty. You can expect to see dramatic gorges like the Furon and Bourne, and potentially catch glimpses of the majestic Grandes Rousses mountain range. Some routes offer panoramic views from passes such as Col d'Herbouilly or the climb towards Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte, which provides splendid vistas high above Grenoble with the Belledonne Range in the background. For specific points of interest, consider exploring highlights like Saint-Michel Peak or The Moucherotte Summit.

While road cycling routes primarily focus on scenic roads, the Vercors region is home to several beautiful waterfalls. You might find opportunities to visit them as short detours. Notable waterfalls in the area include White Waterfall, Cascade des Fauges, and Bruyant Waterfall. Some routes may pass near areas where these natural features are accessible.

The road cycling routes around Villard-de-Lans are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 160 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the dramatic scenery of the gorges, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs. Many appreciate the extensive network of routes catering to different fitness levels.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Villard-de-Lans are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular The Furon Gorges – Lans-en-Vercors loop from Villard-de-Lans and the Lans-en-Vercors – The Furon Gorges loop from Villard-de-Lans, both offering a complete circular experience through stunning landscapes.

Absolutely. The routes often pass through or near charming villages and towns. For instance, the Saint-Nizier-du-Moucherotte – Lans-en-Vercors loop from Villard-de-Lans includes Lans-en-Vercors, a lovely settlement to explore. The village of Villard-de-Lans itself offers charming architecture, lively markets, and a cozy atmosphere, making it a great base for combining cycling with local exploration.

Yes, the Vercors plateau is part of longer-distance routes. For example, the 'P'tites Routes du Soleil' traverses the Vercors plateau and even descends towards Die, offering a change in scenery with lavender fields. You can find more information about this route on France Vélo Tourisme.