The best traffic-free bike rides around Étang des Aulnes

There are several dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Étang des Aulnes, with a total of 7 routes listed in this guide. These routes range in difficulty from easy to moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels.

Yes, Étang des Aulnes offers easy no-traffic touring cycling routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Wind turbines on a line loop from Clos Magali is an easy option, covering about 33 km with minimal elevation gain, allowing for a relaxed ride through the scenic landscape.

The no-traffic routes around Étang des Aulnes traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll cycle through unique ecosystems of the Crau plain, including wet and dry prairies, dry grasslands, and garrigue. Expect to see riparian vegetation along the water's edge, olive groves, and fields. The lake itself provides a peaceful backdrop, and some routes offer views of wind turbines, blending natural beauty with agricultural and industrial elements.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Étang des Aulnes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Wind turbines on a line – Workers' Housing Estate loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau, which offers a substantial loop for a comprehensive touring experience.

The best seasons for touring cycling in Étang des Aulnes are generally spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is mild and pleasant, making for comfortable rides. Summer can be quite hot, especially in July and August, while winter can bring cooler temperatures, though cycling is still possible on many days.

The Étang des Aulnes domain is well-equipped for public access and includes dedicated parking areas. You can typically find convenient parking close to the main access points of the lake, which serve as excellent starting points for many of the touring cycling routes.

For more experienced cyclists looking for longer no-traffic routes, options like the Mas des Crottes Saltworks – Napoleon Beach loop from Mas-Thibert offer a significant distance of over 85 km. These routes provide extended riding time through varied terrain without the concern of vehicle traffic.

The Étang des Aulnes area is a haven for wildlife, particularly birds. The wilder bank of the lake is a refuge for migratory birds, and you might spot species like the European Roller, Eurasian Scops Owl, Red Kite, and Montagu's Harrier. The diverse environment also supports rare insects and smaller mammals, offering opportunities for nature observation during your ride.

Beyond its natural beauty, the Étang des Aulnes domain features an ancient Provençal-style building, an arboreal park, an artists' residence, and an open-air concert hall. While cycling, you'll experience the rich cultural heritage integrated into the natural setting of the region.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse and unique landscapes of the Crau plain, and the opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching, making for a truly immersive outdoor experience.

Yes, some no-traffic touring routes extend beyond the immediate vicinity of Étang des Aulnes into the broader regional park. For instance, the Saint-Martin-de-Crau - Mouriès - Moulès – loop in the Parc naturel régional des Alpilles offers a moderate challenge and allows you to explore the varied terrain and natural beauty of the Parc naturel régional des Alpilles.