The best traffic-free bike rides around École

There are 5 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails around École, offering a range of experiences from moderate to difficult. These routes are designed to keep you away from vehicle traffic, allowing for a more peaceful and immersive ride.

While all routes require some level of fitness, two of the trails are rated as moderate, making them more accessible for beginners or those looking for a less strenuous ride. The Pissieu Waterfall – Lescheraines Lake loop from Lescheraines is a good option, covering 11 km with 235 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate choice is the Pissieu Waterfall – Lescheraines Lake loop from Le Châtelard, which is 13 km long with 322 meters of ascent.

The routes around École offer diverse natural beauty. You can expect to cycle through scenic areas featuring waterfalls, lakes, and mountain passes. For instance, both moderate routes take you past the Pissieu Waterfall and Lescheraines Lake, providing picturesque waterside paths and natural vistas.

Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, there are three difficult routes. The Cycle tunnel – Leschaux Pass loop from Le Châtelard is the longest at 65 km with over 1500 meters of climbing. Another demanding option is the Véloroute 62 – Conflans loop from Cléry, which spans 49 km with 1106 meters of elevation gain.

The region around École is rich with natural and historical points of interest. You can discover several mountain passes like Col du Frêne, Tamié Pass, and Chérel Pass. For a cultural stop, consider visiting the Notre-Dame de Tamié Abbey. There's also the summit of La Belle-Étoile for stunning views.

Yes, all the listed traffic-free gravel bike trails around École are designed as loops, meaning you will finish your ride at your starting point. This makes planning your trip and parking much more convenient.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in École, with an average score of 4.79 stars. Riders often praise the tranquility of these traffic-free routes, the beautiful natural scenery including waterfalls and lakes, and the challenging climbs that offer rewarding views.

While specific cafes on every route are not detailed, the Lescheraines – La Halte des Bauges Restaurant loop from Lescheraines explicitly mentions a restaurant, suggesting opportunities for refreshments. Additionally, there are several huts in the area, such as Drison Refuge and La Fullie Chalets, which might offer rest stops or basic provisions.

Given the presence of mountain passes and potential for snow at higher elevations, late spring through early autumn (May to October) is generally the best time for gravel biking in École. During these months, the weather is typically more stable, and trails are clear of snow, offering optimal riding conditions and vibrant natural scenery.

For gravel biking in École, it's advisable to pack essentials like a repair kit, plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate clothing layers for varying weather conditions, especially if tackling longer routes with significant elevation changes. A helmet is mandatory, and consider bringing a GPS device or using the komoot app for navigation, as some trails can be remote.

Yes, the challenging Cycle tunnel – Leschaux Pass loop from Le Châtelard includes a cycle tunnel, adding a unique element to your ride. This route is one of the longer and more demanding options, perfect for those looking for an adventurous day out.