The best traffic-free bike rides around Bordes

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Bordes listed in this guide. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulties, ensuring options for different skill levels.

The terrain around Bordes, particularly on these traffic-free routes, often features a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel biking. You can expect paths around lakes, such as the Lac de Bazet – Lac de Bours loop, offering relatively flat sections. Some routes, like the Panorama of Soum du Buala – Saint-Blaise Fountain loop, include more significant elevation changes, providing a good challenge with rewarding views.

Yes, there are beginner-friendly options. For instance, the Lac de Bours – Lac de Bazet loop from Tarbes is rated as easy, covering a distance of about 29 km with minimal elevation gain, making it suitable for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed ride.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Panorama of Soum du Buala – Saint-Blaise Fountain loop from Soues offer a difficult rating, spanning over 46 km with nearly 600 meters of elevation gain. These routes provide a more demanding experience away from traffic.

Many routes feature beautiful natural landscapes, particularly around the local lakes. You can explore areas like Arrêt-Darré Lake, and the loops around Lac de Bazet and Lac de Bours. Additionally, the region is home to historical sites such as Abbaye de l'Escaladieu and Mauvezin Castle, which are nearby and could be visited as part of a longer trip.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Bordes are designed as loops, offering a convenient way to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Lac de Bazet – Lac de Bours loop from Soues and the Lac de Bours – Lac de Bazet loop from Barbazan-Debat.

While the guide doesn't specify, generally, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal for gravel biking in this region of France. These seasons offer mild temperatures and pleasant scenery, avoiding the intense heat of summer and the colder, potentially wetter conditions of winter. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Given that many routes start from towns like Soues, Tarbes, Hiis, or Barbazan-Debat, you can typically find public parking facilities within these settlements. It's advisable to check specific starting points on the route pages for the most convenient parking options.

For families, the easier loop routes around the lakes are a great choice. The Lac de Bours – Lac de Bazet loop from Tarbes, for example, is rated as easy and offers a manageable distance, making it suitable for families looking for a safe and enjoyable ride away from cars.

The komoot community rates the routes around Bordes highly, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Riders often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the scenic lake views, and the variety of routes that cater to different fitness levels, from leisurely loops to more challenging climbs.

Many of the starting points for these routes are located in or near towns like Tarbes, which is a regional hub. It's possible to reach Tarbes by public transport, and from there, you might be able to cycle to the start of the trails. However, specific public transport links directly to all trailheads may vary, so planning your journey in advance is recommended.