The best cycling routes around Les Chapelles
4.6
(289)
17,391
riders
177
rides
Touring cycling around Les Chapelles offers diverse landscapes within the Savoie department of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. The area is characterized by its Alpine environment, featuring high mountain passes, lush valleys, fir forests, and flower-filled mountain pastures. Cyclists encounter challenging climbs rewarded with expansive views of snow-capped peaks and access to several serene lakes. The terrain provides a mix of demanding ascents and picturesque routes through varied natural features.
Best touring cycling routes around Les Chapelles
- The most popular touring cycling route is Le Circuit des Villages from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, a 28.3 miles (45.5 km) trail that takes 4 hours 0 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain through local villages and scenic valleys.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Bourg-Saint-Maurice Railway Station – Ascent to La Rosière loop from Landry, a difficult 32.4 miles (52.1 km) path. This route offers a substantial climb and panoramic views of the surrounding alpine landscape.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Pumptrack – Rafting & Relaxing Area loop from Montrigon, a 51.2 miles (82.4 km) trail leading through varied terrain with significant elevation, often completed in about 6 hours 17 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Les Chapelles is defined by high mountain passes, lush valleys, and fir forests. The network offers options for different ability levels, from challenging ascents to more moderate rides.
- The routes in Les Chapelles are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 217 reviews. More than 13,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Les Chapelles's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 24, 2026
5.0
(4)
359
riders
34.0km
02:47
1,050m
1,050m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
236
riders
105km
07:56
2,560m
2,560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(9)
743
riders
52.2km
03:37
950m
950m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
211
riders
128km
09:51
3,340m
3,340m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(6)
461
riders
99.6km
07:53
2,840m
2,840m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
From Morgex: Challenging and relentless climb, from a good military road it ascends with very regular gradients that allow, once you find your rhythm, to go steadily to the top without too much trouble. From Pré-Saint-Didier: Decidedly easy climb to La Thuile (gradients around 4-5%), from there the climb becomes challenging with severe gradients (although not like those of the more famous Morgex side). Be careful, in summer, of traffic (on the descent, use great caution on both sides) and of the south-facing exposure which makes it very hot in the afternoon.
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The Roselend Dam is located in the commune of Beaufort-sur-Doron, in the Beaufortain region of Savoie, between the Col du Pré and the Cormet de Roselend, near the Arêches-Beaufort ski resort. The surrounding mountains reach an altitude of around 2,800 meters. It is part of the Roselend La Bâthie hydroelectric complex, which includes the Roselend Dam and two satellite dams: La Gittaz and Saint-Guérin. This complex is managed by EDF's Alpes Production Unit. The Roselend La Bâthie hydroelectric complex produces the equivalent of the domestic energy consumption of 450,000 residents, thus avoiding the emission of 890,000 tons of CO2 per year. The Roselend Dam is a double-curved arch dam with buttresses. Height = 150 meters Crest length = 804 meters Water reservoir [of the hydroelectric complex] = 187 million m3 The Roselend - La Bâthie development is supplied by the Roselend dam itself, as well as by two satellite dams, La Gittaz and Saint-Guérin. The total storage capacity of these three reservoirs, connected by a system of galleries, is 213 million m3. The water collected at Roselend crosses the massif through a 12.5 km long gallery to flow at an altitude of 1,400 m into the Isère Valley, in the Tarentaise region. It is then transported to the underground plant at La Bâthie via a 2,500 m long penstock, with a drop of 1,200 m. The power plant is equipped with six Pelton-type generating units with a total capacity of 550 MW. Since 2013, EDF has been replacing the main components of each generating unit (turbine, generator, transformer, and energy evacuation cables) to achieve a total capacity of 600 MW by the end of 2018. https://youtu.be/G0Ss9v6wxQQ
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One of the most visited sites in the Alps, on foot or by bike.
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You start at the Col de Pre, a small pass with a narrow road, but very worth seeing.
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A beautiful road, but unfortunately not the best surface for descending, as it has a few patches. From the top, there's a good view of Bourg Saint-Maurice.
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Beaufort is a charming town with a few cafés and restaurants, surrounded by mountains. The famous Beaufort cheese comes from here. The town is a stopover on the Route des Grandes Alpes.
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In Beaufort, you can cross several nice bridges that lead over a gurgling mountain stream that flows right through the middle of the town.
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From Bourg-Saint-Maurice, the Châtelard road climbs, as its name suggests, to the hamlet of Châtelard. The views of the town and valley are quite charming. These are also the first kilometers of the ascent of the Cormet de Roselend from Bourg-Saint-Maurice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Les Chapelles?
There are over 140 touring cycling routes in the Les Chapelles area, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection, from challenging mountain ascents to more leisurely rides through valleys.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Les Chapelles?
The terrain around Les Chapelles is predominantly Alpine, featuring a mix of challenging high mountain passes like the Col de l'Iseran and Col des Saisies, lush valleys, fir forests, and flower-filled mountain pastures. You'll encounter both well-paved roads and diverse trails suitable for different cycling preferences.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are options for easier rides. For instance, the Bourg-Saint-Maurice Railway Station – Bourg-Saint-Maurice loop from Landry is an easy 16 km path. The region also offers signposted cycle routes, dedicated gravel bike trails, and "voies vertes" (greenways) that are generally less arduous. E-bikes are also readily available to make mountain cycling more accessible.
Where can I find challenging touring cycling routes with significant elevation gain?
Les Chapelles is renowned for its challenging routes. You can tackle ascents like the Le Circuit des Villages from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, which features over 1500 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Bourg-Saint-Maurice Railway Station – Ascent to La Rosière loop from Landry, offering substantial climbs and panoramic views.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural features I can see along the routes?
The region boasts breathtaking scenery. You can expect panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, the Vanoise glaciers, and Mont Blanc from high mountain passes like the Col de la Loze. Routes often pass by serene lakes such as Lake Chevril, Lake Aiguebelette, Lac d'Annecy, and Lac du Bourget. The peripheral areas of the Vanoise National Park also offer stunning alpine vistas.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes in Les Chapelles are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Pumptrack – Rafting & Relaxing Area loop from Montrigon, a longer route covering over 80 km through varied terrain.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Les Chapelles?
The touring cycling routes around Les Chapelles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 217 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging ascents, the rewarding panoramic views, and the diverse Alpine landscapes.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the area offers several points of interest. You can find mountain passes like Col du Bonhomme and Col de la Sauce (2,307 m). There are also huts and refuges such as Refuge de Rosuel and Col de la Croix du Bonhomme Refuge, which can be interesting stops along your journey.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Les Chapelles?
The best time for touring cycling in Les Chapelles, especially for high mountain passes, is typically from late spring to early autumn (June to September) when the passes are clear of snow and the weather is most favorable. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, as Alpine weather can change rapidly.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes for those looking for a balanced challenge?
Certainly. If you're looking for a route that offers a good workout without being overly strenuous, consider the Pumptrack – Rafting & Relaxing Area loop from Landry. This moderate 20.5 km route provides a balanced challenge with some elevation gain and scenic views.
Can I access these cycling routes using public transport?
Many routes, such as those starting from Bourg-Saint-Maurice, are accessible via public transport, particularly the railway station. This allows for convenient access to the starting points of various touring cycling adventures in the region.
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