The best traffic-free bike rides around Nantes-En-Rattier

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Nantes-En-Rattier listed in this guide, offering a variety of distances and elevation gains for different skill levels.

The routes around Nantes-En-Rattier feature diverse terrain, from the magnificent mountainous landscapes with significant elevation changes to picturesque views of lakes and prominent massifs like the Ecrins, Vercors, and Chartreuse. You'll encounter challenging climbs, especially around mountain passes like Col de Parquetout, but also quieter roads through varied landscapes of marshes, bocage, and isolated hamlets.

While many routes in the region require good to very good fitness due to substantial elevation gains, there is 1 easy route available. For a more relaxed experience, consider routes that stick to the flatter sections around the lakes, though specific 'family-friendly' routes without any traffic are less common due to the mountainous nature of the area.

Cyclists can enjoy panoramic views from the Matheysin plateau, offering glimpses of Lake Monteynard. Routes often pass by stunning lakes such as Lake Laffrey and Lake Brouffier. The ascents to various cols, like Col de la Morte and Plan Collet Pass, also provide spectacular scenery.

Yes, several routes are designed as circular loops. For example, the moderate route Grand Lake of Laffrey – Lake Laffrey loop from Saint-Théoffrey offers a 30.5 km ride with 451m of elevation gain. For a more challenging option, the difficult Parquetout Pass – Parquetout Pass loop from Valbonnais covers 73.7 km with over 2400m of climbing.

The best time for road cycling in Nantes-En-Rattier is typically from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally more favorable, and mountain passes are clear of snow. Summer offers warmer temperatures, while spring and autumn provide cooler rides and vibrant landscapes, though some higher elevation routes might still be affected by snow early or late in the season.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 146 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the continuous beautiful views, and the quiet roads that allow for an immersive cycling experience away from traffic.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can find interesting points of interest. For instance, you might encounter the Drac Footbridge or the unique geological formation of La Pierre Percée. The region is also dotted with charming villages and the ruins of Rattier castle, offering historical context to your ride.

The elevation gain varies significantly. Moderate routes, such as Lake Laffrey – View of Lac de Laffrey loop from Cholonge, can have around 350m of ascent over 27.8 km. More challenging routes, like the difficult Parquetout Pass – Parquetout Pass loop from Valbonnais, feature substantial climbs of over 2400m across 73.7 km, making them suitable for experienced cyclists seeking a significant challenge.

Many routes start from towns or villages like Saint-Théoffrey or Valbonnais, which typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific starting points for available parking options, especially in smaller hamlets, to ensure a convenient start to your ride.

While the routes themselves focus on quiet roads, the starting and ending points in towns like La Mure or Valbonnais often provide amenities such as cafes, bakeries, and small shops where you can refuel and rest. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer routes that traverse more remote areas.