The best gravel rides around Fournols
11
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Fournols offers routes through the varied landscape of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park. The terrain is characterized by high plateaus, dense woodlands, and agricultural valleys, providing a mix of forest tracks and quiet country roads. Riders can expect elevations ranging from moderate climbs to higher passes, with panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Sancy massif.
Best gravel bike trails around Fournols
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Col de la Cabane – Cunlhat loop from Cunlhat, a 22.7 miles (36.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 46 minutes to complete. This difficult route features significant elevation gain and varied terrain.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Ambert – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from Ambert, a moderate 15.5 miles (24.9 km) path. This path winds through rural landscapes and offers views of the surrounding hills.
- Local gravel bikers also love the View from Dourbias – Chateau Les Martinanches loop from Cunlhat, a 19.7 miles (31.7 km) trail leading through dense forests and rolling hills, often completed in about 2 hours 18 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Fournols is defined by rolling hills, dense forests, and agricultural valleys. The network offers options for both moderate and challenging ability levels.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 9 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Fournols's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 21, 2026
3
riders
36.5km
02:48
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
24.9km
01:37
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
31.6km
02:17
590m
580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
1
riders
13.0km
01:06
300m
300m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
73.4km
05:36
1,470m
1,470m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Reserved for users of ravine paths with stones.
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A breathtaking view that is worth the effort and wild landscapes! What a natural spectacle, wow! Undeniably one of the places not to be missed in Auvergne.
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Small road pass (altitude 943 m) which, like the Toutée pass, connects St-Amant-Roche-Savine and Cunlhat, but via a small road with no traffic.
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I have been cycling this route for over 40 years and I never get tired of it.
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The view is superb, the surrounding paths are great!
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Superb pass and a stone's throw away the Gîte des Gentianes offers you a snack, overnight meal... and a superb welcome.
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Erected on the line forming the edge of the Livradois plateau, a veritable western balcony, the Deux-Frères belvedere occupies one of the highest sites in the commune of Echandelys, at some 1087 meters above sea level. Occupied by an orientation table set up in 1972 by the Intercommunal Syndicate of Tourist and Economic Development of Livradois, it allows a view over the entire Limagne valley and the main geographical formations of Auvergne, from Plomb from Cantal to the Chaîne des Puys, recently listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, via the Sancy massif. Several tables allow you to have a pleasant picnic and recently installed wooden benches encourage you to enjoy the view during a pleasant break.
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Magnificent view from the highest peak of the Forez mountains.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking trails around Fournols?
The gravel biking trails around Fournols offer a mix of moderate and difficult routes. You'll find 3 moderate and 2 difficult trails, providing options for various skill levels, though beginners might find some routes challenging due to significant elevation gains.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking routes in Fournols?
While the region primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the Ambert – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from Ambert is a moderate 15.5-mile (24.9 km) trail with less elevation gain compared to others, making it a more accessible option for families with some biking experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Fournols?
Gravel biking around Fournols is characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and agricultural valleys within the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park. Riders can expect a mix of forest tracks, quiet country roads, and gravel paths suitable for off-road cycling.
Are there any loop gravel bike trails available in Fournols?
Yes, all the gravel bike routes listed for Fournols are loop trails. For example, you can explore the Col de la Cabane – Cunlhat loop from Cunlhat or the Ambert – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from Flaittes, both offering circular journeys through the landscape.
What are the typical lengths and durations of gravel bike routes in Fournols?
The gravel bike routes in Fournols vary in length, generally ranging from about 8 miles (12.9 km) to 22.7 miles (36.5 km). Durations typically range from 1 hour 20 minutes to nearly 3 hours, depending on the route and your pace.
What attractions or scenic viewpoints can I find along the gravel bike routes in Fournols?
While riding, you might encounter scenic views of the surrounding hills and agricultural landscapes. Notable attractions in the wider area include the historic town of Ambert, the beautiful Gomot Waterfall, and the impressive Saint-Jean Church, Ambert.
Is public transport available to access gravel bike trails near Fournols?
Fournols is a rural area, and public transport options directly to trailheads might be limited. It's generally recommended to plan your trip with a car for easier access to the starting points of the gravel bike routes.
Where can I park my car when gravel biking in Fournols?
Many routes start from towns or villages like Cunlhat, Flaittes, Viallard, or Ambert. You can typically find public parking in these areas, often near the town center or designated parking lots, which serve as convenient starting points for your gravel biking adventure.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Fournols?
The best time for gravel biking in Fournols is generally during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer more favorable weather conditions, with less rain and more comfortable temperatures, making the trails more enjoyable and accessible.
Are there any challenging gravel cycling routes for experienced riders in Fournols?
Yes, experienced gravel bikers will find challenging routes such as the Col de la Cabane – Cunlhat loop from Cunlhat and the Ambert – Saint-Jean Church, Ambert loop from Flaittes. Both are rated difficult and feature significant elevation gains, providing a good test of endurance and skill.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Fournols?
The gravel biking routes around Fournols are popular among the komoot community, with over 10 gravel bikers having explored the varied terrain. Riders often praise the scenic beauty of the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park and the mix of forest tracks and quiet country roads.
Most popular attractions around Fournols
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