The best traffic-free bike rides around Planay

While the region around Planay offers numerous cycling opportunities, this guide specifically features two primary no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes are carefully selected to provide a serene and car-free experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the stunning alpine scenery of Savoie.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Planay are generally considered moderate in difficulty. For example, the Bois de Bèze loop from Étais covers over 46 km with an elevation gain of around 475 meters. Another option, the Lake on Le Brévon – Route Towards Aisey-sur-Seine loop from Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite, is also moderate, spanning about 37 km with 430 meters of ascent. These routes offer a good challenge without being overly strenuous, perfect for experienced road cyclists.

Yes, for those seeking a less challenging ride, the Bois de Bèze loop from Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite is classified as easy. This route is approximately 35 km long with a manageable elevation gain of about 285 meters, making it a great choice for beginners or families looking for a relaxed, traffic-free cycling experience.

The routes around Planay offer stunning alpine landscapes. You'll cycle through areas that provide glimpses of the majestic Vanoise National Park, just 15 km away, and the dramatic Aiguilles d'Arves, 44 km from Planay. While specific viewpoints are not highlighted on these particular routes, the entire region is known for its breathtaking mountain scenery and pristine natural environment, ensuring a picturesque ride.

The best time for road cycling in Planay is typically during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. During this period, the high mountain passes and roads, often used by ski resorts like Courchevel and Val Thorens in winter, are clear of snow and offer ideal conditions for cycling. You'll avoid the harsh winter weather and enjoy the full beauty of the alpine environment.

Yes, all the featured no-traffic road cycling routes in this guide are circular. For instance, the Bois de Bèze loop from Étais and the Bois de Bèze loop from Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite are both excellent loop options, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps.

The road cycling experience in this region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the immersive alpine environment and the satisfaction of conquering mountain passes, even on the quieter routes. The feeling of the wind on descents and the stunning natural beauty are frequently highlighted.

While cycling these routes, you'll be in proximity to several notable attractions. You could consider visiting the historic Fontenay Abbey, exploring the town of Montbard, or seeing the Parc Buffon. The Port of Ravières and the Old Bridge at Cry also offer interesting diversions nearby.

The no-traffic road cycling routes around Planay vary in length and elevation. You can expect routes ranging from approximately 29 km, like the Route Towards Aisey-sur-Seine – Forest tunnel loop from Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite with about 302 meters of ascent, up to nearly 50 km, such as the Roadbike loop from Étais which features around 574 meters of elevation gain. This variety allows cyclists to choose a route that matches their desired distance and climbing challenge.

While the focus of these routes is on traffic-free cycling through natural landscapes, Planay and its surrounding villages, including those near major ski resorts like Courchevel (5 km away) and Méribel (11 km away), offer various amenities. It's advisable to plan your stops for cafes, restaurants, or accommodation in these towns before or after your ride, as options directly on the quieter sections of the routes may be limited.