The best road cycling routes around Pontarlier

Pontarlier offers a vast network of road cycling routes, with over 800 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to challenging climbs through the Jura Mountains.

The region around Pontarlier, nestled in the Jura Mountains, features diverse terrain. You'll encounter sub-alpine ranges, extensive forests, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys. Expect limestone formations, dramatic ridges, and deep gorges, providing a mix of gentle valley rides and strenuous climbs over cols.

Yes, there are several easy options. The path encircling Lac de Saint-Point is a well-maintained, mostly paved 23-kilometer route, perfect for a scenic and accessible ride. Sections of routes following the Doubs River also offer flat and family-friendly paths. For a specific easy route, consider the View of Lake Saint-Point – View of Lac de Saint-Point loop from Les Grangettes.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, the Jura Mountains offer formidable climbs. While specific cols like Mont Poupet and Col du Grand Colombier are mentioned in the broader Jura context, routes like La vallée de Joux — loop from Métabief and Pontarlier - Les Verrières Loop provide significant elevation gains and demanding sections.

The best time to visit Pontarlier for road cycling is typically between May and October. This period avoids the winter snows and offers more favorable weather conditions for exploring the region's diverse landscapes.

Many routes in the Pontarlier area are designed as loops, offering circular journeys. A popular moderate option is The valley of the 2 lakes — Loop from Pontarlier, which provides scenic views including Lac de Saint-Point. Another challenging loop is Le Val de Morteau — Loop from Morteau.

You'll encounter numerous natural features and historical landmarks. The prominent Jura Mountains themselves offer stunning vistas. Lac de Saint-Point is a central feature for many routes, providing continuous water views. The Doubs River also flows through the region, with its source near Mouthe being an accessible point of interest. For historical sights, Fort de Joux, an 11th-century fort, is perched on a rocky outcrop near Pontarlier and offers scenic viewpoints. You might also pass by the Saut du Doubs Waterfall or the Gorges de Noailles.

The road cycling routes in Pontarlier are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the serene experience amidst beautiful natural scenery, and the well-integrated natural elements like Lac de Saint-Point and the Doubs River.

Yes, Pontarlier is a key point on the renowned Grande Traversée du Jura (GTJ) by bike. This 360-kilometer itinerary traverses the entire Jura Mountains and the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, offering multiple variants and stages. You can find more information about the GTJ on France Vélo Tourisme.

Yes, the region offers options for refreshments and accommodation. You might find places like the Chalet Gaillard Restaurant along some routes. The area also has various huts and shelters, such as the Chalet-Refuge du Gros Morond, which can serve as stops or overnight options.

Absolutely. The Jura Mountains are known for their panoramic vistas. The climb to Mont d'Or (1,463 meters) offers exceptional views that can extend to the Alps. The Col de la Faucille is another popular option for rewarding panoramic vistas. Additionally, the Renédale Viewpoint is a notable natural monument offering scenic views.