The best road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
4.7
(488)
12,332
riders
41
rides
Road cycling around Saint-Jean-En-Royans offers diverse terrain within the Vercors Regional Natural Park, characterized by limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and high plateaus. The region features roads carved into rock faces, providing significant elevation gains and panoramic views. Cyclists navigate through varied landscapes, from river valleys to mountain passes, with routes catering to different fitness levels.
Best road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
- The most popular road cycling route is Cols of la Machine, Carri, and Herbouilly Loop, a 56.5 miles…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
4.8
(15)
546
riders
90.9km
05:20
2,220m
2,220m
Challenge yourself on this difficult 56.5-mile road cycling route through the Vercors, tackling the cols of La Machine, Carri, and Herbouill
4.9
(20)
436
riders
67.8km
03:53
1,510m
1,510m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(4)
128
riders
87.3km
05:08
2,220m
2,220m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.7
(12)
286
riders
87.2km
05:00
2,070m
2,070m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.7
(3)
221
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Popular around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Between passes and mountain villages – bike rides in the Drôme
Grand Tour of the Vercors – third section
The Great Crossing of France’s Vercors mountains by MTB
Cycling around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Hiking around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
MTB Trails around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Running Trails around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Gravel biking around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Other adventures around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Tips from the Community
The Vercors Plateau (also known as the Vercors Massif) is one of the most spectacular natural jewels of the French Prealps, located straddling the departments of Isère and Drôme, a short distance from Grenoble. This vast limestone mountainous area, which extends over more than 206,000 hectares, is famous for its unique geological conformation that earned it the nickname of "fortress": an immense rocky block surrounded by impressive vertical cliffs, deep canyons, and spectacular internal plateaus. [1] (https://turismo-it.saintmarcellin-vercors-isere.com/i-10-principali-elementi-essenziali/parco-naturale-regionale-del-vercors/), [2] (https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prealpi_del_Vercors), [3] (https://www.france.fr/it/articolo/scoprite-varieta-naturale-del-massiccio-del-vercors/), [4] (https://mapy.com/it/?source=osm&id=1209791721)
12
0
Prepare to experience one of the most spectacular and exciting road routes in Europe! The Combe Laval road, nestled in the Vercors massif, is a true engineering masterpiece of the 19th century. Also known as the "road of dizziness," it winds for about 4 kilometers literally carved into the limestone rock, offering passages through suggestive tunnels and natural balconies with breathtaking drops that will take your breath away.
12
0
Get ready to experience one of the most spectacular and exciting road routes in Europe! The Combe Laval road, nestled in the Vercors massif, is a true masterpiece of 19th-century engineering. Also known as "the road of dizziness," it winds for about 4 kilometers literally carved into the limestone rock, offering passages through suggestive tunnels and natural balconies with breathtaking overhangs that will leave you breathless.
9
0
The Col de la Machine (1,011 m) is one of the most spectacular and famous access gates to the entire Vercors massif. World-renowned for being the highest point of the legendary Combe Laval, this pass offers a steady climb (around 6% average gradient from Saint-Jean-en-Royans) that winds through a dense and majestic forest.
9
0
La Combe Laval is one of the most spectacular scenic roads in the Vercors massif. The D76 was carved into the rock face between the 19th and 20th centuries and passes through a succession of tunnels, ledges, and sections suspended over the valley.
11
0
One of the symbolic climbs of the Vercors. The road climbs through forests and rocky walls up to the pass, offering spectacular views of the Drôme valley. A very evocative climb, popular with cyclists, ideal for immersing yourself completely in the wild landscape of the Vercors.
10
0
One of the most striking passes in the Vercors, nestled between dense forests and wide mountain landscapes. The climb offers a wild and tranquil environment, with the road winding through woods and plateaus. An ideal place to savor the most authentic and spectacular side of the Vercors by bike.
8
0
The climb starts quite gently from Chamaloc and becomes progressively more challenging as you enter the spectacular valley. The most scenic part is the final section, with hairpin bends set into the rock faces and the impressive crossing of the Col du Rousset tunnel.
11
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Saint-Jean-en-Royans?
There are over 30 road cycling routes documented on komoot around Saint-Jean-en-Royans, catering to various fitness levels. These routes offer diverse terrain within the Vercors Regional Natural Park.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Saint-Jean-en-Royans?
The pleasant weather during spring and summer makes these months the best time for road cycling around Saint-Jean-en-Royans. You can expect generally clear roads and agreeable conditions for exploring the Vercors Massif.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, while many routes feature significant elevation, there are 5 easy road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-en-Royans. These are great for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride through the scenic landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-en-Royans?
The terrain around Saint-Jean-en-Royans is characterized by limestone cliffs, deep gorges, and high plateaus within the Vercors Regional Natural Park. You'll encounter roads carved into rock faces, offering significant elevation gains and panoramic views, from river valleys to challenging mountain passes.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
Many routes pass by impressive natural and historical sites. You can cycle past the dramatic Cirque of Combe Laval, the historic Machine Pass, or the picturesque town of Pont-en-Royans with its suspended houses. The region is also rich in impressive gorges like Gorges de la Bourne.
Are there any routes that feature the famous Combe Laval?
Absolutely. The Combe Laval is a highlight of the region. You can experience its vertigo-inducing cliff-side section on routes such as the Machine Pass – Cirque of Combe Laval loop from Saint-Jean-en-Royans, which offers spectacular panoramas.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Saint-Jean-en-Royans?
The road cycling routes in Saint-Jean-en-Royans are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet, awe-inspiring gorge and cliff roads, as well as the challenging climbs and stunning views of the Vercors Massif.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced road cyclists?
Yes, the Vercors Massif offers numerous challenging routes. For instance, Cols of la Machine, Carri, and Herbouilly Loop is a difficult 90.9 km trail with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is The great passes of Vercors, a 67.8 km path traversing multiple mountain passes.
Can I find routes that are loops or circular?
Many of the road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-en-Royans are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Combe de Beauregard-Baret – Abbaye de Léoncel loop from Saint-Jean-en-Royans and the Route des Petits Goulets – Pont-en-Royans loop from Saint-Jean-en-Royans.
Are there any waterfalls visible from the road cycling routes?
Yes, the region features beautiful natural elements. You might encounter the White Waterfall, which is a notable highlight in the area, offering a refreshing sight during your ride.
Is parking available near the starting points of road cycling routes?
Saint-Jean-en-Royans and surrounding villages typically offer parking facilities, especially in town centers or near popular trailheads. It's advisable to check local signage for specific parking regulations and availability before your ride.
Most popular routes around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Most popular attractions around Saint-Jean-En-Royans
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
