The best traffic-free bike rides around Briffons

There are 5 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Briffons featured in this guide. These routes range in difficulty from easy to difficult, offering options for various skill levels.

The region around Briffons, nestled in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, is best enjoyed for road cycling during the warmer months, typically from late spring to early autumn. This period offers pleasant weather for tackling the varied terrain, from rolling hills to volcanic landscapes, and ensures mountain passes are clear.

You can expect a diverse and often challenging terrain. The region is characterized by its volcanic heritage, including the dramatic Chaîne des Puys and the demanding Massif du Sancy. Routes feature significant elevation gains, sweeping descents, and picturesque roads winding through volcanic landscapes, high plateaus, and glacial valleys. Even the 'no traffic' routes will present varied gradients.

Yes, there is one easy no traffic road cycling route available. The Roadbike loop from Cisternes-la-Forêt is a good option, covering approximately 20 km with a manageable elevation gain of around 245 meters, making it ideal for those new to road cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride.

The routes offer stunning views of the volcanic landscape. You can encounter features like the Lac du Guéry, a beautiful lake, and pass through areas with views towards the Chaîne des Puys. Notable landmarks and points of interest in the wider area include the La Banne d'Ordanche summit and the charming settlement of Orcival. The Guéry Pass – Orcival loop from Rochefort-Montagne is a great example of a route showcasing these features.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience around Briffons, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 22 ratings. Cyclists often praise the quiet, scenic roads, the challenging climbs, and the unique volcanic landscapes that provide a rewarding and immersive cycling adventure away from heavy traffic.

Yes, all the no traffic road cycling routes listed in this guide are circular. For example, the Lac de Guéry – Guéry Pass loop from La Chabanne offers a moderate 39 km ride, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

While specific parking details for each route's starting point are best checked on the individual route pages, the region is generally accommodating for cyclists. Towns and villages like Rochefort-Montagne, La Chabanne, Montcheneix, Saint-Bonnet-près-Orcival, and Cisternes-la-Forêt, which serve as starting points for these routes, typically offer public parking options. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.

Yes, many of the routes pass through or near small villages and towns where you can find cafes, bakeries, or small shops. For instance, the Château de Bonnabaud – Pontgibaud loop from Montcheneix will take you through areas where you can find local amenities. Larger towns like La Bourboule and Mont-Dore, though not directly on these specific routes, are nearby and offer more extensive options.

The no traffic road cycling routes around Briffons vary in length. The shortest route is approximately 20 km, while the longest extends to about 70 km. For example, the Beautiful view – Nébouzat loop from Saint-Bonnet-près-Orcival is a moderate 41 km ride, typically taking around 2 hours and 6 minutes to complete.

Public transport options in the immediate vicinity of Briffons are limited, especially for reaching specific route starting points with a bicycle. While the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is developing its cycling infrastructure, relying on public transport to access the more remote 'no traffic' routes might be challenging. It's generally recommended to travel by car to the starting points of these routes.