The best road cycling routes around Sales

There are over 180 road cycling routes around Sales, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

The Sales region offers diverse terrain, from relatively flat lakeside paths along Lake Annecy to rolling hills and more challenging ascents towards mountain passes. You'll find a mix of open stretches through agricultural lands and sheltered sections in forested areas.

Yes, Sales offers a good selection of routes for beginners. There are 17 easy road cycling routes, providing gentler terrain to get started. For example, routes that stick to the flatter sections along Lake Annecy are generally more accessible.

For experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge, Sales has 48 difficult routes. These often involve significant elevation gains and mountain passes. A notable difficult route is the Chambotte Pass – Route de La Chambotte loop from Rumilly, which includes over 2,000 meters of elevation gain.

Many of the road cycling routes around Sales are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Lake Annecy – Along the shore loop from Rumilly and the Route de Cessens – Plan d'eau de Rumilly loop from Rumilly.

Road cycling routes around Sales often provide scenic views of Lake Annecy and the surrounding landscapes. You might pass by natural features like the Fier Gorge or historical sites such as Montrottier Castle. Mountain passes like Col du Clergeon also offer panoramic vistas.

The best time for road cycling in Sales is typically from spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the routes are clear of snow, especially at higher elevations. Summer offers warmer temperatures, ideal for lakeside rides, while spring and autumn provide cooler conditions and vibrant scenery.

The road cycling routes in Sales are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from scenic lakeside paths to challenging mountain passes, and the beautiful natural surroundings.

Many routes in the Sales region traverse villages and towns, offering opportunities for cafe stops or places to refill water bottles. Routes along Lake Annecy, for instance, often pass through lakeside communities with amenities. While specific cafe stops aren't listed for every route, planning your ride through populated areas will increase your chances of finding refreshments.

The lengths of road cycling routes in Sales vary significantly. You can find shorter loops, such as the Bridge over the Chéran – Plan d'eau de Rumilly loop from Rumilly at around 43 km, to much longer and more demanding rides like the Leschaux Pass – Lake Annecy loop from Rumilly, which is over 100 km.

While specific public transport options directly to every trailhead may vary, the town of Rumilly, a common starting point for many routes, is generally accessible by regional bus services. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for connections to your desired starting point, especially if you're not driving.

Winter conditions in Sales can be challenging for road cycling. Lower elevation routes might be rideable on clear days, but higher passes and shaded sections can be icy or snow-covered. It's crucial to check local weather forecasts and road conditions before planning a winter ride, and consider alternative sports if conditions are unfavorable.