The best gravel rides around Le Locle

There are over 75 gravel bike routes available in the Le Locle region, offering a wide range of experiences across the Jura countryside. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.

The gravel biking routes around Le Locle are predominantly moderate to difficult, reflecting the Jura mountains' characteristic elevation changes. While there are no easy routes, you'll find 16 moderate trails and 60 difficult ones, ensuring varied challenges for experienced riders.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Col sur le Mont – Bridge over the Doubs loop from Pays-de-Montbenoît cover over 65 km (40 miles) with significant elevation, offering a full day's adventure. Another substantial option is the Areuse River – Creux du Van loop from Couvet, which is nearly 60 km (37 miles) long.

Many routes in the region offer a good challenge. For instance, the Typical Jura countryside – Bahnhofplatz La Chaux-de-Fonds loop from Le Crêt-du-Locle is a difficult 24 km (14.9 miles) path navigating classic Jura terrain. Another demanding option is the La Brévine Weather Station – Lac des Taillères loop from La Brévine, which features over 700 meters of elevation gain.

The best time for gravel biking in Le Locle is typically from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder, and the trails are more accessible. Winters can be very cold, especially in areas like the Vallée de la Brévine, known as the 'Siberia of Switzerland,' making winter riding more challenging due to snow and ice.

You can expect diverse and scenic landscapes characteristic of the Jura region. Routes often feature rolling hills, deep river valleys like those carved by the Areuse and Doubs, expansive forests, and open pastures. Many trails offer panoramic views, such as those found on the Typical Jura countryside – View of the Wide Valley loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds Les Forges.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Le Locle are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Typical Jura countryside loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds Les Forges and the Tunnel near Lac de Moron – View of the Doubs loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds.

The region boasts several natural highlights. You might encounter the impressive natural amphitheater of Creux du Van, or pass by beautiful bodies of water like Brenets Lake and Lake Taillères. The Tourbière des Ponts-de-Martel is another notable natural monument in the vicinity.

Many starting points for gravel bike routes in the Le Locle area are accessible by public transport, particularly those originating from larger towns like La Chaux-de-Fonds. For example, the Bahnhofplatz La Chaux-de-Fonds – Le Maillard loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds starts directly from a train station, making it convenient for public transport users.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the stunning views across the Jura countryside, and the mix of unpaved roads and forest tracks that provide varied challenges and beautiful natural surroundings.

While specific cafes aren't listed for each route, many trails pass through or near villages and towns in the Jura countryside. For example, routes like the Typical Jura countryside – Auberge du Grand-Sommartel loop from La Chaux-de-Fonds Les Forges might offer opportunities to stop at local establishments for refreshments.

While all routes offer unique experiences, exploring trails that venture deeper into the Doubs river valley, such as sections of the Areuse River – L'Areuse loop from Chambrelien, can lead to more secluded and less-trafficked paths, offering a sense of discovery away from the main routes.