The best traffic-free bike rides around Presles

There are over 200 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Presles, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find 68 easy routes, 91 moderate routes, and 52 difficult routes to explore.

The Presles area, situated within the stunning Vercors Regional Natural Park, offers dramatic and varied landscapes. Cyclists can expect high limestone plateaus, deep gorges, and lush forests. Routes often feature breathtaking views, such as those along the Gorges de la Bourne or the spectacular Route de Presles (D292), which is carved into the mountainside.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the The Auvers loop from Champagne-sur-Oise is a moderate 30 km circular route, and the Banks of the Oise — L'Isle-Adam – Chemin de la Petite Plaine loop from Champagne-sur-Oise offers an easy 17 km option.

The region around Presles is rich in history and natural beauty. You can cycle past impressive structures like the Pond and Château de la Chasse or the historic Château d’Auvers. For natural sights, look out for highlights such as the Blue Lake of Carnelle or the Singletrack along the Marais de Stors.

The routes vary significantly in difficulty. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options. For instance, the Old Railway Line in the Forest – Chateau de Noisel s oise loop from Nointel - Mours is a challenging 50 km ride with over 500 meters of elevation gain, while shorter, flatter routes are also available for a more relaxed experience.

While individual routes listed here are generally day trips, the wider Vercors Regional Natural Park, where Presles is located, is home to the Grand Tour du Vercors. This extensive route covers approximately 230 kilometers and is ideal for multi-day touring, typically taking 7 to 8 days, offering a truly immersive experience away from traffic.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 500 ratings. Reviewers often praise the magnificent scenery, the quiet roads that allow for peaceful immersion in nature, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels. The dramatic limestone landscapes and historic routes are frequently highlighted as favorites.

The Vercors region generally offers excellent cycling conditions from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially on exposed sections. The 'no traffic' nature of these routes makes them enjoyable across these seasons, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty.

Yes, there are numerous easy routes that are well-suited for families. These routes typically have minimal elevation gain and are shorter in distance, ensuring a pleasant experience for all ages. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' to find the most family-friendly options, such as the 17 km Banks of the Oise — L'Isle-Adam – Chemin de la Petite Plaine loop.

Many routes start from villages or towns around Presles, such as Champagne-sur-Oise or Nointel-Mours, which typically offer public parking facilities. For example, routes like the Banks of the Oise — L'Isle-Adam – Auvers-sur-Oise loop from Presles - Courcelles often have starting points with convenient access for vehicles.

Absolutely. The Vercors region is renowned for its panoramic vistas. The Route de Presles (D292) is particularly famous for its 'balcony road' sections, carved into cliffs, offering magnificent views of the Grande Cournouze. Many routes through the gorges and plateaus will provide numerous opportunities for breathtaking viewpoints.