The best cycling routes around Saint-Laurent-En-Royans

There are over 200 touring cycling routes around Saint-Laurent-En-Royans. You'll find a wide range of difficulties, with 21 easy routes, 66 moderate routes, and 119 challenging routes, catering to all experience levels.

Yes, the region offers several routes suitable for families, particularly those that follow relatively flat paths through scenic areas like walnut groves, orchards, and sunflower fields. Look for the 21 easy-rated routes on komoot for gentler options.

The region is renowned for its dramatic landscapes. The Combe Laval Cirque is a must-see, with its spectacular 'balcony road' carved into the rock face offering breathtaking views. You'll also encounter deep gorges like the Gorges de la Bourne and the Vercors Regional Natural Park, providing continuous scenic beauty.

While many routes are day trips, the region's extensive network allows for longer tours by linking various segments. The Vercors Gorges and Forests Route, for example, is a significant 112 km ride showcasing sublime roads carved into cliffs and along gorges, often starting nearby in Saint-Jean-en-Royans.

The terrain is highly varied. You can find relatively flat roads passing through agricultural landscapes, or tackle long, alpine climbs with average gradients of 5-7% leading up to the Vercors plateau. Roads often wind through forests, along rivers, and even feature sections carved directly into cliff faces, such as the famous Combe Laval.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 460 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic and varied landscapes, from the challenging mountain passes and spectacular gorges to the serene forest paths and picturesque villages.

Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Route and cirque of Combe Laval from Saint-Jean-en-Royans or the Combe Laval Cirque – Machine Pass loop from Pont-en-Royans, which offer comprehensive experiences of the local scenery.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore cultural and historical sites. The picturesque village of Pont-en-Royans, known for its unique hanging houses, is often included in itineraries. You might also encounter the remote Orthodox Monastery of Saint-Antoine-le-Grand in the Combe Laval valley, or visit the Choranche Cave and Gournier waterfalls near Pont-en-Royans.

Yes, the region's deep gorges and rivers often lead to beautiful waterfalls. The Moulin-Marquis Waterfall and Bournillon Cave is a notable highlight, as is the White Waterfall. These natural features can be incorporated into your cycling adventures.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer can also be excellent, especially at higher elevations in the Vercors, though some lower-lying areas might be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear due to potential snow and ice on higher passes.

Absolutely. The region is home to several demanding mountain passes that are integral to many cycling routes. These include Col de la Machine, Col de Chalimont, Col d'Herbouilly, Col de Carri, Col de Tailbourse, Col de la Portette, and Pioneer Pass, all offering significant elevation gains and stunning panoramic views.

Yes, the Gorges de la Bourne are a prominent feature of the region and are included in several touring cycling routes. For example, the Gorges de la Bourne – Bourne Gorge loop from Pont-en-Royans offers a challenging ride through this dramatic landscape, showcasing roads carved into the cliffs.