The best traffic-free bike rides around Forêt de Chaux

There are over 270 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes in the Forêt de Chaux region, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from easy, family-friendly rides to more challenging excursions.

The Forêt de Chaux is known for its extensive network of long, shaded roads, predominantly flat or gently undulating, making for comfortable cycling. Many routes follow well-paved surfaces, including sections of the Voie des Salines and the EuroVelo 6, often alongside the tranquil Canal du Rhône au Rhin.

Yes, the region offers many easy routes suitable for families. The well-paved sections of the EuroVelo 6, which pass through the forest, are particularly good for family rides. An example of an easy route is the Clauge Valley loop from Crissey, which is just under 12 km long with minimal elevation gain.

The Forêt de Chaux is rich in history and natural beauty. You can explore sites like Les Baraques du 14, an eco-museum detailing the lives of charcoal burners, or discover the historic Guidon Columns that once guided forest workers. The forest also features unique 'Chênes à Vierges' (Virgin Oaks) and a dense network of waterways. You might also encounter the Dragons of the Forest of Chaux, a local point of interest.

Many routes in the Forêt de Chaux are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For instance, you could try the Dole – Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, Dole loop from Augerans, which covers over 46 km and offers a scenic circular experience.

The Forêt de Chaux is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning foliage, while summer provides extensive shade from the vast deciduous forest canopy, making it comfortable even on sunnier days. The long shaded roads are particularly favored by cyclists during these seasons.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the extensive forest, the well-maintained, car-free paths, and the immersive natural experience offered by the region's rich biodiversity and shaded routes.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, there are moderate to difficult routes available. An example is The Doubs – Rhine-Rhône Canal loop from Crissey, which spans over 59 km and includes a moderate elevation gain, offering a more extended exploration of the region's waterways and forest.

While specific public transport links directly to all starting points might vary, the EuroVelo 6 route, which passes through the region, is generally well-connected and can be accessed from various towns. For detailed information on public transport options to specific trailheads, it's advisable to check local transport schedules.

Absolutely. Many no-traffic road cycling routes in Forêt de Chaux utilize the excellent cycling infrastructure along the Canal du Rhône au Rhin. These routes offer picturesque views of the waterways and often connect to other parts of the forest. The Rhine-Rhône Canal – Dole loop from Falletans is a great example of a route that follows the canal.

The Forêt de Chaux is a Special Protection Area (ZPS) under the Natura 2000 network, known for its rich biodiversity. Cyclists might spot various woodpecker species, raptors like black and red kites, and even black storks. Red deer are also present in the forest, offering a chance to observe wildlife in their natural habitat.