The best road cycling routes around Doubs

Road cycling in Doubs offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find gentle greenways along the meandering Doubs Valley, suitable for more relaxed rides, as well as challenging climbs and scenic views in the Jura Mountains and the Haut-Doubs region. The landscape also features extensive pastured woodlands and plateaus, providing varied experiences from riverbanks to higher elevations like Mont d'Or.

Yes, Doubs offers routes that cater to experienced road cyclists seeking a challenge. The region's inclusion in the Jura Mountains provides opportunities for demanding ascents and descents. For instance, the route from Source of the Loue – Pontarlier loop from Doubs features over 800 meters of elevation gain, offering a significant workout amidst stunning scenery.

While most routes in our guide are moderate, the Doubs region is home to sections of the EuroVelo 6, a well-developed route that often utilizes greenways and quiet roads along the Doubs Valley. These flatter sections provide an excellent opportunity for beginners or those looking for a more leisurely ride. The Doubs Valley cycling route from Montbéliard to Dôle is particularly noted for its easy cycling.

Doubs is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle along the dramatic wooded slopes of the Doubs Valley, explore the varied landscapes of the Jura Mountains, and pass by beautiful lakes like Lac Saint-Point. Notable natural attractions include the impressive Saut du Doubs waterfall, the unique Thoraise Tunnel along the river, and the Source de la Loue. You can also find scenic viewpoints such as the Renédale Viewpoint and the Scenic Upper Valley of the Doubs Horloger Regional Natural Park.

Absolutely. Doubs combines natural beauty with rich history. Cyclists can visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, accessible via a cycle path. The historic Joux Castle, with a thousand years of military history, is also a prominent landmark. Routes like the Joux Castle – La Cluse-et-Mijoux loop from Doubs offer direct access to such sites.

The best time for road cycling in Doubs is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is more favorable, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer offers warm temperatures, while spring and autumn provide cooler conditions and beautiful foliage, making for pleasant rides. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially when planning rides in the higher elevations of the Jura Mountains.

Yes, Doubs is part of significant long-distance cycling networks. The EuroVelo 6, a major European cycle route, passes through the Doubs Valley, offering a 160 km section within the region. Additionally, the Great Crossing of the Jura (GTJ) by bike extends over 360 km across the Jura Mountains, providing extensive options for multi-day tours and long-distance challenges.

Many road cycling routes in Doubs are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular La Cluse-et-Mijoux – Pontarlier loop from Doubs, which offers moderate climbs, and the Le Mont-calvaire – Lande du Doubs loop from Doubs, winding through woodlands and plateaus. These circular routes are convenient for day trips.

The road cycling routes in Doubs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the tranquil Doubs Valley to the challenging Jura Mountains, and the well-maintained paths that allow for varied experiences. The blend of natural beauty and historical landmarks also contributes to a highly enjoyable cycling experience.

Yes, Doubs features several beautiful lakes that are popular for outdoor activities, including cycling. Lac Saint-Point, the third-largest natural lake in France, offers scenic routes around its shores. While not exclusively road cycling paths, roads often run alongside these lakes, providing stunning views and opportunities for a refreshing stop. The Route du Lac de Saint-Point is a highlight in the area.

Many routes in Doubs traverse the region's extensive forests and pastured woodlands. For example, the Chemin du Train near Doubs – Chemin du Train loop from Arçon leads directly through forests and along the Doubs River, offering a shaded and scenic ride. The Doubs Nature Park is also characterized by vast woodlands, providing a tranquil cycling environment.