The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Martin-De-Crau

There are over 260 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Saint-Martin-De-Crau. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 78 easy, 121 moderate, and 63 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for every cyclist.

The region offers a remarkable diversity of landscapes. You can cycle through the unique 'dry steppe' of the Crau Plain, characterized by pebble deserts and extensive pastures, or explore the 'wet Crau' with its lush prairies and hedged farmland. To the north, the routes venture into the rolling hills of the Alpilles mountains, and to the west, you can find paths leading towards the distinctive wetlands of the Camargue.

Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Saint-Martin-De-Crau are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the moderate 62.8 km route, Saint-Martin-de-Crau - Mouriès - Moulès – loop in the Parc naturel régional des Alpilles, which offers varied scenery within the regional nature park.

The routes range from easy to difficult. For instance, you can find challenging rides like the 61.5 km Eygalières, Orgon and Maussane-les-Alpilles – loop in the Parc naturel régional des Alpilles with over 560 meters of elevation gain, or moderate options such as the 21.6 km Maussane-les-Alpilles loop from Mouriès. There are 78 easy routes, 121 moderate, and 63 difficult routes to choose from.

The terrain varies significantly. In the Crau Plain, you'll find mostly flat, often paved or well-maintained gravel paths. As you move towards the Alpilles, routes will feature more rolling hills and some steeper ascents, often on paved country roads. Some paths, especially in protected areas like the Coussouls de Crau, might involve more natural, unpaved surfaces.

Absolutely. The region is rich in natural beauty. You can find routes that offer views of the unique Crau steppe, the lush irrigated fields of the wet Crau, and panoramic vistas from the Alpilles. Notable natural highlights include Lake Peïroou and the dramatic Jean-Jean's Caisses Valley. The Étang des Aulnes, a departmental park, is also a significant refuge for bird species.

Many routes integrate historical and cultural sites. You might pass by remnants of Roman aqueducts or enjoy views of ancient villages. For example, some routes offer a View of Les Baux-de-Provence, a magnificent medieval site. The Quarries of Light (Carrières de Lumières) are also a unique cultural experience nearby.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.24 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and tranquil landscapes, the well-maintained routes that allow for traffic-free exploration, and the opportunity to combine cycling with visits to historical sites and natural wonders like the unique Crau plain and the scenic Alpilles.

Saint-Martin-De-Crau is connected by regional public transport. While specific routes may require a short ride from a station, many starting points are accessible. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules and bike carriage policies for the most convenient access to your chosen route.

Yes, for certain protected areas like the Coussouls de Crau Nature Reserve, an obligatory pass from the Maison de la Crau offices may be required to access specific trails, such as the 'Sentier d'interprétation de la Draille des Coussouls.' Always check local regulations before entering nature reserves to ensure compliance and protect the fragile ecosystem.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for touring cycling in Saint-Martin-De-Crau. The weather is typically mild and pleasant, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the cooler, sometimes wetter, conditions of winter. These seasons also offer beautiful natural scenery, from blooming wildflowers to vibrant autumn colors.