The best traffic-free bike rides around Soulages

There are currently 9 no traffic touring cycling routes available around Soulages, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.

The routes around Soulages range from moderate to difficult. You'll find 4 moderate routes and 5 difficult routes, ensuring options for both experienced touring cyclists and those looking for a good challenge.

The Aveyron department, where Soulages is located, is excellent for cycling outside the peak season of mid-July to mid-August. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for exploring the region's quiet roads.

Yes, all the no traffic touring cycling routes listed are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Ruynes-en-Margeride loop from Ruynes-en-Margeride is a moderate 23 km option.

Absolutely. The region is known for its diverse landscapes. Many routes offer stunning vistas, such as the Lastic Viewpoint loop from La Chapelle-Laurent. You can also visit the Lastic Viewpoint itself, which is a highlight in the area.

The Soulages area and the wider Aveyron region are rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. You can explore charming villages like Lavoûte-Chilhac or Ruynes-en-Margeride. The historic Château du Bousquet is also nearby, adding a touch of historical charm to your tour. The Aubrac Plateau, with its serene landscapes, is a prominent natural feature.

Given the varied terrain of the Aveyron, you can expect significant elevation gains on many routes. For instance, the difficult View of the Garabit Viaduct – Ruynes-en-Margeride loop features over 700 meters of ascent, while a moderate route like the Garabit Viaduct – View of the Garabit Viaduct loop has around 245 meters of climbing.

While many routes in this guide are moderate to difficult, the region does offer easier, paved sections suitable for families, particularly along river valleys. For specific family-friendly options, look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances, such as the 15 km Garabit Viaduct – View of the Garabit Viaduct loop.

Many of the routes start from villages like Ruynes-en-Margeride or La Chapelle-Laurent, where public parking is generally available. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for designated parking areas.

The komoot community rates touring cycling in Soulages highly, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet roads, the stunning natural beauty of the Aubrac region, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that offer panoramic views.

Public transport options in the rural Aveyron region can be limited. While some larger towns may have bus or train connections, direct access to the starting points of these specific routes via public transport might be challenging. It's often more convenient to travel by car to the starting locations.

The routes often pass through or near small villages where you can find local cafes, bakeries, or small restaurants, especially during peak season. For accommodation, consider guesthouses or hotels in the larger villages or towns within the Aveyron department, which cater to cyclists.