4.3
(130)
787
riders
91
rides
Mountain biking around Brénod offers diverse landscapes and a well-developed network of routes in the Ain department of the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region. The terrain features a mix of forest tracks, mountain trails, and open alpine fields, providing varied experiences for cyclists. Brénod is situated within the Ain mountains, an area known for its opportunities across different mountain biking disciplines. The region is characterized by its natural beauty, including the expansive Plateau de Retord and views of Mont Blanc from higher…
Last updated: May 15, 2026
5.0
(1)
34
riders
61.6km
06:05
1,640m
1,640m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(2)
15
riders
36.2km
03:20
720m
720m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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5.0
(1)
7
riders
37.2km
02:36
620m
620m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
30.1km
03:03
730m
720m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.0
(1)
9
riders
12.8km
01:25
370m
370m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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The Retord farm, located on the plateau of the same name, allows you to discover local products and offers a pleasant stop in a relaxing natural setting.
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Beautiful, simple, easy walk; lots of traffic noise on the "road" section, a bit of a shame, but the color of the water is magical
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Extraordinary panorama, ideal place for a break on the GTJ route, a picnic or even a stopover in a gîte (booking: https://refugelaconay.clubalpinbourgenbresse.fr/reservation/)
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A typical Jura ridge trail: cliff on one side, forest on the other, sharp rocks and large roots peeking out, and constant steep sections (uphill and downhill). It's not the worst I've seen: aside from the steep sections, no section is technically impossible for an experienced mountain biker. The view of the Grand Crêt d'Eau, the Crêt de Chalam, and the Haut-Jura is also pretty good.
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This human-sized resort offers numerous activities available all year round. It is the starting point for mountain bike and hiking trails. It also has a biathlon stadium that can be used in summer and winter, unique in the Ain region. Ideal for exploring the Jura massif.
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Stele paying tribute to the Resistance fighters who took to the Maquis on the Plateau de Retord during the Second World War. Several information panels on the history of the Resistance fighters near the various farms occupied at the time.
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Small pass at the crossroads of the Crêt du Nu, summit of the Plateau de Retord, the Mont Blanc de Beauregard panorama, the hamlet of Bergonnes and the resort of Plans d'Hotonnes.
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Open panorama of the Alps facing Mont Blanc. View of the Grand Colombier, legendary pass of the Ain, the Belledonne massif and the Chartreuse to the south. This panorama is easier to access and more open than the one located in the extension of the summit.
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There are over 90 mountain bike trails available around Brénod, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These include 18 easy routes, 49 moderate routes, and 24 difficult routes.
The mountain bike trails around Brénod feature diverse terrain, including forest tracks, mountain trails, and open alpine fields. You'll encounter varied landscapes, from the expansive Plateau de Retord to the dense Forest of the Moussières, providing a dynamic riding experience.
The best time for mountain biking in Brénod is generally from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the trails are clear of snow. The region's higher elevations, like the Plateau de Retord, can offer spectacular views, but may be subject to snow earlier or later in the season.
Yes, Brénod offers several easy mountain bike trails suitable for families. For example, the Belleroche Pass loop from Le Petit-Abergement is an easy route that covers 22.4 km with moderate elevation gain, making it a good option for a family outing.
Many trails in the Brénod area are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to check local regulations and signage for specific routes. Ensure your dog is well-behaved, on a leash where required, and that you carry waste bags to maintain the natural environment.
Mountain biking around Brénod offers stunning natural attractions. On clear days, higher points on the Plateau de Retord can provide breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. You can also discover beautiful water features like Lake Nantua, known for its sapphire and emerald hues, and the refreshing Melogne Waterfalls near the 'Trou de la Marmite'.
Yes, many mountain bike routes in Brénod are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Plans d'Hotonnes Station – Brown Ponds loop from Brénod, a moderate 34 km route, or the shorter Brown Ponds – Brénod loop from Brénod, which is 11.8 km.
Public transport options directly to all mountain bike trailheads in Brénod may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving to access the starting points of the trails. For general information about the region's events, you might find resources on Ain Tourisme.
Parking is generally available in and around Brénod, particularly near popular trailheads and villages. Specific parking areas are often indicated on local maps or at the start of marked routes. It's recommended to check the starting points of individual routes for precise parking information.
The mountain bike trails in Brénod are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 115 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the diverse terrain, the well-developed network of routes, and the stunning natural beauty of the Ain department.
Yes, Brénod offers several difficult mountain bike trails for experienced riders seeking a challenge. An example is the Mont Blanc view – View of the Monts d'Ain loop from Nantua, a 15.9 km route with significant elevation gain, offering challenging climbs and potential Mont Blanc views on clear days.
Absolutely. The region features several beautiful water bodies. You can cycle past the Lake Nantua, a stunning glacial lake, or explore routes that pass by the Brown Ponds. The Forest of the Moussières also has nearby Maron ponds, ideal for a scenic break.


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