Tour of Lac de Sarrans

This route is classified as a difficult touring bicycle ride. It demands very good physical fitness due to significant elevation changes, including an ascent of around 920 meters over approximately 44.1 kilometers. While mostly paved, some segments within the broader Aubrac Regional Natural Park might be unpaved and require pushing your bike.

You'll be immersed in the stunning natural beauty of the Aubrac Regional Natural Park. The route features vast plains, endless rolling hills, extensive meadows dotted with traditional stone 'burons', dense forests, and crystal-clear rivers. Expect to see granite rock formations, waterfalls, and during summer, peaceful herds of Aubrac cows grazing the magnificent landscapes.

The tour offers several notable features. You'll pass by the impressive Sarrans Dam and the historic Pont de Treboul. The route also takes you near the Vines Village and Bagpipe Museum, offering a glimpse into local culture. Beyond these, you'll encounter charming villages, ancient crosses, and traditional stone houses characteristic of the Aubrac region.

Yes, the Tour of Lac de Sarran – Aubrac Regional Natural Park is designed as a circular route, bringing you back to your starting point.

While specific parking areas aren't detailed, as a circular route, you can typically find parking in one of the villages or designated areas near Lac de Sarran or within the Aubrac Regional Natural Park that serve as convenient starting points for the tour.

The summer months are ideal for cycling this route, offering pleasant weather and the chance to see Aubrac cows grazing. However, the Aubrac plateau can be wild, so always check weather conditions before you go, especially outside of peak summer.

While the Aubrac Regional Natural Park generally welcomes visitors, it's a working agricultural landscape with grazing livestock. If you bring a dog, it should always be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and farm animals, and to ensure a safe experience for everyone.

No, there are typically no entrance fees or special permits required for cycling on public trails within the Parc naturel régional de l'Aubrac. However, always respect private property and local regulations, especially when passing through villages or near agricultural land.

Given the route's difficulty and the wild nature of the Aubrac, it's wise to pack essentials like sufficient water and snacks, a repair kit for your bike, appropriate cycling gear for varying weather, sun protection, and a first-aid kit. A map or GPS device is also recommended as mobile signal can be intermittent in some areas.

Yes, sections of this cycling tour overlap with other paths. You'll find it intersects with parts of the RBX Pays de Saint-Flour, Chemin d'Exploitation dit des Bois de la Barthe, Chemin de la Croueze, Jean Froment, Chemin des Jardinets, and La Vergne.

While the route itself traverses a wild and unspoilt landscape, the Aubrac Regional Natural Park is dotted with charming villages. You'll likely find opportunities for refreshments in these settlements, such as those near the Vines Village and Bagpipe Museum, but it's always a good idea to carry enough supplies, especially on longer stretches.