The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Enfers

The region around Les Enfers, nestled in the Franches-Montagnes district, offers a diverse landscape ideal for road cycling. You'll find routes traversing lush alpine meadows, expansive pastures, and dense forests. The high Jura plateau means undulating roads and some climbs, with the village itself at 955 meters and higher points reaching over 1,000 meters. Expect a mix of scenic views and shaded tree-lined roads.

Yes, there is at least one easy route perfect for a more relaxed ride. Consider the Bellelay Abbey loop from Les Genevez JU, which covers about 14.8 km with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a gentle introduction to road cycling in the area.

Many routes offer stunning natural sights. You can cycle past the tranquil Étang de la Gruère, a nature reserve surrounded by a high moor, or the picturesque Étang Plain-de-Saigne, embedded in alpine meadows. The region also borders the scenic Doubs River Valley, offering different views and gradients.

Absolutely. For a more demanding ride, the Mont Soleil Wind Turbines – Chasseral Summit and Viewpoint loop from Les Breuleux-Eglise is a difficult route spanning nearly 63 km with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Soubey – Church in Montfaucon loop from Clos du Doubs, covering over 35 km with substantial climbs.

The high Jura plateau experiences distinct seasons. Late spring through early autumn (May to October) generally offers the most favorable conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and less chance of snow. Summer provides lush landscapes, while autumn brings vibrant colors. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, many of the routes in this guide are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Étang de la Gruère – Bellelay Abbey loop from Le Noirmont and the Quiet Forest Road – Saignelégier Cycle Path loop from Saignelégier, providing convenient options for your ride.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Les Enfers, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the car-free roads, the stunning natural beauty of the Franches-Montagnes, and the varied terrain that caters to different fitness levels.

Yes, the region offers charming historical sites. The historic Saint-Ursanne Old Town and the Doubs River is a picturesque destination with its stone bridge and ancient gates, making for a rewarding stop during a cycling excursion. You might also pass by the Marché-Concours Hall, a notable local landmark.

This guide features 11 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Les Enfers, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences.

Les Enfers and the surrounding Franches-Montagnes region are generally accessible by public transport, primarily buses connecting to larger towns with train stations. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes (e.g., PostBus Switzerland) to plan your journey to the specific starting points of the cycling routes.

While specific parking details vary by route, most villages and towns in the Franches-Montagnes region, including Les Enfers and nearby communities like Le Noirmont or Les Breuleux, offer public parking areas. Look for designated parking zones near the suggested starting points of the routes.

Yes, the region has various options for refreshments and accommodation. You might find charming local restaurants or cafés in the villages you pass through. For example, the Restaurant Le Theusseret on the Doubs is a notable spot. For overnight stays, look for guesthouses or hotels in Les Enfers or neighboring towns.