The best traffic-free bike rides around Landeyrat

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Landeyrat, offering a variety of distances and elevations to explore the stunning Auvergne landscape.

Most of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Landeyrat are rated as 'moderate' difficulty. This means you can expect some challenging climbs and descents, typical of the volcanic terrain, but they are generally manageable for regular road cyclists. There is also 1 'easy' route available for a more relaxed ride.

The routes traverse the unique volcanic landscapes of the Auvergne, featuring expansive high mountain pastures (estives), vast plateaus, and quiet, winding roads. You'll encounter dramatic ridgelines, ancient lava flows, and diverse ecosystems including peat bogs, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Cantal Mountains and Cézallier Plateau.

Yes, all the no-traffic road cycling routes listed are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, you could try the Chamaroux Pass – La Godivelle loop from Marcenat or the Murat – Murat — Medieval Village loop from Allanche.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can discover stunning viewpoints like the View of Mont Chamaroux and the Cézallier mountains, or visit beautiful waterfalls such as the Cascade des Veyrines and Saillant Waterfall. The routes also pass by serene lakes like La Godivelle and Lake du Pêcher, often with bird observatories nearby.

The best time for road cycling in Landeyrat is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is generally milder and more stable, making for pleasant riding conditions. The high mountain pastures are particularly beautiful in summer.

While most routes are moderate, the region offers unique family-friendly activities like the Vélorail du Cézallier, where you can ride rail bikes on a former railway line. For a more relaxed road cycling experience, consider the 1 'easy' route available in the area, or look for shorter sections of the moderate routes that might be suitable for older children.

The komoot community highly rates the road cycling experience in Landeyrat, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, less-trafficked roads, the challenging yet rewarding climbs, and the stunning panoramic views of the volcanic landscapes and vast plateaus.

Many of the routes start from small villages or designated parking areas. For example, the Forêt de la Pinatelle – La Roche aux Fruits loop starts near the Réserve naturelle des tourbières du Jolan et de la Gazelle, which typically has parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.

While the routes focus on quiet, no-traffic roads, they often pass through or near small villages where you might find local cafes or small shops. For instance, the Murat – Murat — Medieval Village loop starts from Allanche, a village likely to offer amenities. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides, as services can be sparse in the more remote sections of the Cézallier.

The longest no-traffic road cycling route in this guide is the Murat – Murat — Medieval Village loop from Allanche, covering approximately 47.3 kilometers with significant elevation gain, offering a substantial ride through the scenic landscape.

For a shorter ride, consider the Gorges of the Sianne – Chanusclade Pass loop from La Terrisse, which is approximately 32 kilometers long. This route still offers a good workout with its elevation changes but is more compact.