The best road cycling routes around Aubusson

There are over 560 road cycling routes around Aubusson, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 90 reviews.

Yes, Aubusson offers routes suitable for various fitness levels. While many routes are moderate, there are 27 routes classified as easy. These typically feature quieter country roads and less challenging elevation, allowing for a more relaxed experience. For example, the 49 km stage from Aubusson to Chambon-sur-Voueize is relatively gentle with pleasant descents, making it a good option for those seeking an easier ride.

The terrain around Aubusson is diverse, characterized by quiet country roads, wooded hills, and meandering rivers. You'll find a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging ascents, with routes often winding through picturesque landscapes. The region's natural features, including several lakes, provide a scenic backdrop for your rides.

The region boasts several beautiful natural attractions. You can cycle past the expansive Lake Vassivière, often called an 'inland sea,' or the Étang des Landes Nature Reserve, the largest natural lake in Limousin, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The Jarrauds Waterfall, a beautiful 15-meter high cascade, is also a significant natural highlight in the wider area.

Absolutely. Aubusson itself is renowned as the 'French Capital of Tapestry' and is part of 'Les Plus Beaux Détours de France.' You can visit the Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie. Many routes pass through charming local towns like Chambon-sur-Voueize, which features an impressive 11th-century Romanesque abbey church, or Felletin, another historic tapestry-making center. The Terrade Bridge is another historical point of interest.

The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and moderate temperatures, while summer provides warm, sunny days ideal for longer rides, especially around the lakes. Autumn brings beautiful foliage and comfortable cycling conditions. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Aubusson offers 146 difficult routes. These routes feature significant elevation gains and longer distances. An example is the Diamonds of the Creuse – A beautiful descent to Aubusson loop from Vallière, a 76.6 km trail with over 1000 meters of elevation gain, often completed in about 3 hours 41 minutes.

Many of the road cycling routes around Aubusson are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. For instance, the popular Lake Vassivière – View of Lac de Vassivière loop from Faux-la-Montagne is a 35.5 km circular route offering views of Lac de Vassivière. Another option is the Terrade Bridge – Chambon-sur-Voueize loop from Peyrat-la-Nonière - Angly AB, which is 83.5 km.

Aubusson and the surrounding towns generally offer public parking facilities. For specific routes, it's often possible to find parking near the starting points in villages or at popular attractions like Lac de Vassivière. Always check local signage for any parking restrictions or fees.

Yes, Aubusson is part of a broader cycling network. The 'Tour de Creuse by bike' offers over 320 km of signposted paths, and the extensive Creuse Cycling Route boasts over 400 km of marked routes. Additionally, 'La Vagabonde' (V87), a major cycling route spanning over 500 km, includes sections through the Creuse, providing diverse landscapes from Lake Vassivière to the Millevaches plateau.

The routes vary significantly. While the shortest routes might be around 25 km with a few hundred meters of elevation, many moderate routes range from 60 to 80 km with 700 to 900 meters of climbing. Difficult routes can exceed 90 km with over 1000 meters of elevation, such as the Bariousses Dam – Church of Tarnac loop from Faux-la-Montagne, which is 97.2 km with over 1600 meters of ascent.

Yes, many routes pass through or near charming towns and villages where you can find local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. Larger hubs like Aubusson, Chambon-sur-Voueize, and Felletin offer more options. It's a good idea to plan your route to include these stops, especially on longer rides, to enjoy local hospitality and refuel.