The best cycling routes around Les Planches-Près-Arbois

There are over 120 touring cycling routes around Les Planches-Près-Arbois, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. These include 8 easy routes, 60 moderate routes, and 60 difficult routes.

Yes, for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride, there are 8 easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Arbois – Tuff Waterfalls loop from Arbois, an 8.9-mile (14.4 km) path that leads past the picturesque Cascade des Tufs.

To immerse yourself in the local vineyards, consider the Vineyard Loop 20. This moderate 20.9-mile (33.7 km) route features significant elevation gain as it traverses the region's beautiful vineyard landscapes.

Many of the touring cycling routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Arbois – Tuff Waterfalls loop from Arbois and the Tuff Waterfalls – Arbois loop from Mesnay, both offering diverse scenery.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Many routes pass by the stunning Tuff Waterfalls, a geological marvel formed by the Cuisance river. You can also find routes that offer views of the dramatic Reculée des Planches-Près-Arbois, such as from the Fer à Cheval Viewpoint.

While direct access into caves by bike is not possible, some routes will bring you close to notable geological features. The Grotte de Saint-Bilbalbo is a nearby cave, and you can explore routes that traverse gorges like the Reculée du Cul des Forges Scenic Ascent, offering dramatic landscapes.

The touring cycling routes in Les Planches-Près-Arbois are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from riverside paths to climbs offering panoramic views, and the natural beauty of sites like the Cascade des Tufs.

Yes, several routes connect to or pass through charming towns. For instance, the Liberty Square – Arbois loop from Arbois takes you through Arbois, known for its cultural points of interest and likely opportunities for cafes and refreshments. The village of Les Planches-Près-Arbois itself also offers a pleasant atmosphere.

The terrain around Les Planches-Près-Arbois is quite varied. You'll find routes with gentle riverside paths along the Cuisance river, as well as more challenging climbs that ascend to the first Jura plateau, offering significant elevation gains and panoramic vistas. Surfaces can range from paved roads to unpaved sections, providing a diverse touring experience.

For a moderate challenge combined with natural sights, consider the Tuff Waterfalls – Les Planches-près-Arbois loop from Les Planches-près-Arbois. This 11-km route includes a climb of over 200 meters and takes you past the iconic Tuff Waterfalls.

The region is generally pleasant for touring cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming landscapes, while autumn provides vibrant fall colors. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat, especially on routes with significant climbs.