The best traffic-free bike rides around Métropole de Lyon

There are over 400 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes in Métropole de Lyon. These routes cater to various skill levels, with approximately 140 easy, 142 moderate, and 132 difficult options available.

The Métropole de Lyon offers a diverse range of landscapes for traffic-free cycling. You can enjoy tranquil riverside paths along the Rhône and Saône, explore expansive urban parks like Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage, or tackle the more challenging, scenic hilly terrain in areas like the Monts d'Or.

Yes, many routes are suitable for families. Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage is an excellent choice, offering 2,200 hectares of nature with lakes and dedicated cycling paths. Routes around Parc de la Tête d'Or and Feyssine Park also provide pleasant, safe cycling experiences for all ages.

You'll find numerous points of interest. Along the Saône, you can enjoy the View of Île Barbe. Near the lakes, you might encounter the Mallard Promenade — Blue Waters Lake or the Grand Brotteau Peninsula, Lac des Eaux Bleues. For a unique experience, cycle through the Croix-Rousse Tunnel (Cycle path) with its artistic lighting.

Absolutely. The Métropole de Lyon is part of the extensive ViaRhôna network, an 815 km cycle path. Sections of this route within the region offer long-distance, car-free touring cycling, providing scenic rides along the Rhône river.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can be warm, especially in July and August, but riverside routes and shaded park trails remain enjoyable. Winters are typically cool and can be damp, but cycling is still possible on many routes.

Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Miribel-Jonage Park Lake – La Forestière Lake loop from Jonage is a moderate 42.8 km option. Another is the Blue Waters Lake – Jonage Canal loop from Gratte-Ciel, a moderate 37 km route.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Métropole de Lyon, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the well-maintained, traffic-free paths, the beautiful riverside scenery, and the accessibility of large green spaces like Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage for peaceful rides.

Many routes are easily accessible by public transport, especially those starting within or near the city. For instance, the Jonage Canal – Ain/Rhône confluence loop from Charpennes - Charles Hernu (Ligne B) begins near a metro station, making it convenient to reach without a car.

Yes, especially on popular routes and within large parks. Grand Parc Miribel-Jonage, for example, has facilities including cafes and restaurants. Routes along the Rhône and Saône rivers also pass through or near urban areas where refreshment stops are readily available.

The routes vary significantly in difficulty. You can find easy, flat rides perfect for beginners or families, such as the Miribel MTB Circuit #4: The Forest Route. There are also moderate options like the Miribel-Jonage Park Lake – La Forestière Lake loop from Jonage, and more challenging, longer routes with greater elevation, such as the Le Grand Large – Jonage Canal and Grand Large loop from Laurent Bonnevay - Astroballe.