The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Maurice-En-Chalencon

There are 15 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Saint-Maurice-En-Chalencon listed in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult challenges, perfect for exploring the region's scenic roads.

The terrain around Saint-Maurice-En-Chalencon is characterized by its mountainous topography, offering a blend of winding roads, significant climbs, and exhilarating descents. You can expect challenging ascents and rewarding views, typical of the Ardèche region.

Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in the area are circular. For instance, the challenging route Col de Chalencon (694 m) – View of the Eyrieux Valley loop from Saint-Maurice-en-Chalencon is a 48.5 km loop starting directly from Saint-Maurice-en-Chalencon, offering over 1,000 meters of elevation gain.

The region is rich in natural beauty and charming villages. You can enjoy scenic views of the Eyrieux Valley, especially from routes like the View of the Eyrieux Valley – Ascent to Gluiras loop. The medieval Chalencon village itself offers splendid panoramic views of the Vercors, the Alps, and Mont Gerbier de Jonc. You might also encounter mountain passes like Col de la Mure.

While the area is known for its challenging terrain, there are moderate options available. This guide features 5 moderate routes. However, it's important to note that even moderate routes in this mountainous region will involve significant elevation changes. There are no routes specifically classified as 'easy' for road cycling in this selection.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in the Ardèche, with milder temperatures and less tourist traffic. Summers can be warm, but the higher elevations provide some relief. Always check the local weather forecast before heading out.

You'll find opportunities for refreshments in the villages along the routes. For example, the route Saint Anne Restaurant Café – Vernoux-en-Vivarais. loop passes through Vernoux-en-Vivarais, which offers amenities. Additionally, the Terre adélice Ice Cream Shop in a former silk mill is a popular stop for local delicacies.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from 48 ratings. Reviewers often praise the challenging climbs, the stunning panoramic views of the Eyrieux Valley and Monts d'Ardèche, and the sense of tranquility on the less-trafficked roads.

The 'La Dolce Via' is a magnificent greenway, but it's important to note that some sections may not be ideally suited for road bikes, being more appropriate for mountain or hybrid bikes due to their surface. However, it is a significant cycling infrastructure in the wider region and parts of it might be accessible. You can find sections like the Dolce Via Section Through the Gorges of the Eyrieux.

Absolutely. The region is well-suited for advanced cyclists seeking a challenge. Many routes feature significant elevation gains, such as the Col de la Faye, elevation 1,019 m – Col de Burianne (620 m) loop from Gluiras, which covers over 51 km with more than 1,200 meters of climbing. The broader Ardèche region is renowned for its numerous cols, offering plenty of demanding options.

Many routes start from villages like Saint-Maurice-en-Chalencon, Saint-Michel-de-Chabrillanoux, or Gluiras, where public parking is typically available. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking areas, especially in smaller hamlets.