The best cycling routes around Saint-Genès-Champespe

There are over 70 touring cycling routes in the Saint-Genès-Champespe area. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 3 easy, 17 moderate, and 51 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for almost every cyclist.

The region offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter volcanic terrain, rolling hills, forests, and pastures. The routes traverse the Artense plateau, featuring a mosaic of wetlands and numerous lakes, all set within the stunning Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park.

Yes, while many routes are challenging, there are 3 easy touring cycling routes available around Saint-Genès-Champespe. These are generally shorter and have less elevation gain, making them suitable for families or those seeking a more relaxed ride. For example, the Saint-Austremoine Church – Saint-Genès-Champespe loop from Saint-Genès-Champespe is a moderate 26.7 km route that could be a good option for experienced families.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past several picturesque lakes such as Lac de la Crégut, Lac de Lastioulles, and Lac Chauvet. You might also encounter beautiful waterfalls like the Entraygues Waterfalls or the Barthe Waterfall, offering scenic stops along your journey.

Many of the touring cycling routes in Saint-Genès-Champespe are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Gorges de la Rhue – Lac de Lastioulles loop from Marchal, a challenging 38.2 km ride, or the Lac de Lastioulles – Saint-Genès-Champespe loop from Marchal, which is 41.4 km long.

The touring cycling routes around Saint-Genès-Champespe are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the stunning volcanic landscapes, and the tranquility of the lakes and forests.

For breathtaking views of the Gorges de la Rhue, consider the Gorges de la Rhue – Lac de Lastioulles loop from Marchal. This difficult 38.2 km route also provides scenic vistas of the tranquil Lac de Lastioulles.

Yes, some routes offer the experience of cycling between local villages, showcasing the rural charm of the region. The Saint-Genès-Champespe – Saint-Donat loop from Charjoux is a 53.8 km route that leads through the picturesque rural landscapes connecting these two communities.

The best season for touring cycling in Saint-Genès-Champespe is typically from spring to autumn. During these months, the weather is generally milder and more predictable, making for more enjoyable rides through the diverse landscapes of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park. Summer offers warmer temperatures, ideal for combining cycling with swimming in the region's lakes.

While many routes focus on natural beauty, some pass by local landmarks. For instance, the village of Saint-Genès-Champespe itself is home to the Saint-Sébastien church, built in 1907. The wider region also features the 'Artense' Salers cow bronze sculpture by Patrick Mouvet and the Sancy Tour N°17 'Le chemin les maquisards,' which traces local French Resistance history.

Among the routes highlighted, the Entraigues Waterfall – Lake Pavin loop from Picherande is one of the longer options, covering 53.8 km. This difficult route explores scenic waterfalls and a volcanic lake, typically taking around 3 hours and 42 minutes to complete.