Routes
10 cycling itineraries in the heart of the French massifs
Do you love cycling, watching the countryside go by mile after mile, and want to discover local treasures? Roaming is for you! Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or an apprentice adventurer, trade in your suitcases for some adventurous panniers and take to the road for a cycling holiday.
Take a look at our selection of 10 cycling itineraries, where you’ll find plenty to discover on two wheels.
#1 – The Grande Traversée du Jura by bike
Better known for cross-country skiing than mountain biking, the Grande Traversée du Jura is a 375-kilometre trail from Montbéliard to Bugey. In the heart of the Jura Mountains, this unique route crosses the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and takes you on a discovery tour of lakes, villages and typical local specialities.
Difficulty level: Easy to difficult (possibility of adjusting the route)
#2 – Les p’tites routes du soleil
This crossing of the Pre-Alps is done by touring bike or electric bike on alternate routes, less busy and less sporty than the classic route of the Great Alps Road. It’s a route that allows you to explore and savour the rich heritage of the Alps: gastronomy, of course, but also villages of yesteryear and local crafts, providing an opportunity to stop and discover at every stage. The route is almost 900km long, with no fewer than 100 cycle recharging points.
Difficulty level: Easy (alternative route to the Route des Grandes Alpes)
#3 – La Belle Via
270km from La Balme-de-Sillingy (Haute-Savoie), 195km from Chanaz (Savoie), for 3 to 5 days of riding between lakes and mountains. This itinerary, which is accessible to beginners, combines the pleasure of riding with a wide range of discoveries of the region. There are plenty of opportunities along the way to take a well-earned break and enjoy a swim in a lake, a regional culinary speciality or a visit to the local heritage.
You’ll enjoy a unique panorama of the peaks of the Jura, Bauges, Belledonne, Chartreuse and Mont Blanc!
Level of difficulty: Easy
#4 – The Grande Traversée des Pyrénées
From the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean, this sporting route takes in the legendary routes and passes of the Tour de France (Tourmalet, Aspin, Portet, etc.). Starting in the Basque Country, the route gradually climbs up to the peaks of Saint-Lary, Tourmalet and Ax les Thermes. There are some lovely high altitude sections before a gentle descent to the eastern part of the Pyrenees, with the Mediterranean just a few kilometres from the Spanish border in sight.
Difficulty level: Difficult
#5 – The Great Alps Route
Probably one of the best-known itineraries, the Great Alps Route links Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. Between iconic mountain passes, lush green pastures and mineral zones, the route unfolds a palette of landscapes as sublime as they are impressive. In all, 720km covered, 16,000 metres of ascent and 18 passes to (re)discover.
Difficulty level: Difficult
#6 – The Grande Traversée du Massif Central by mountain bike (GTMC)
In the heart of the legendary Auvergne volcanoes, the GTMC offers an exceptional setting for 30 days of touring. Discovering the region, its heritage and its people, this 1390km ride is divided into 12 separate stages. Whether you’re a seasoned sportsman or a beginner looking for a bit of adventure, you’ll be able to put together the tour that’s right for you!
Difficulty level: Easy to difficult (possibility of adjusting the route)
#7 – Tour de la Bresse
Cycle to the Hautes-Vosges on the Tour de la Bresse and its landscapes, starting from the Haut des Blûches estate. This 53.27 km loop will challenge you up to an altitude of 1200 m, with over 1700 m of ascent.
Difficulty level: Difficult
#8 – The Grande Traversée du Vercors by mountain bike (GTV)
Originally conceived as a hiking trail, the Grande Traversée du Vercors is now available for mountain biking. Set off on a 3 to 4 day tour through the Vercors Regional Nature Park. A total of 147km from Grenoble for a unique route through unspoilt wilderness.
Level of difficulty: Very difficult
#9 – Jurassic Vélo Tour
The Jurassic Vélo Tour offers you the chance to discover the Jura mountains and their local treasures along the water. 1500km of small roads and paths divided into 44 themed routes to suit all levels and tastes. A real discovery itinerary beside the lakes and waterfalls of the Jura.
Difficulty level: Easy (possibility of hiring VAE and VTTAE bikes on site).
#10 – The Tour du Sancy
This 78 km loop, starting from the medieval town of Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise, takes you on a voyage of discovery of the Massif du Sancy in all its forms! At an altitude of over 1000 m, you’ll cross all the slopes of the Massif and reach the sublime Lac Pavin, Lac de Chambon and the beautiful resort of Le Mont-Dore. In all, allow 3 hours 55 minutes for the walk.
Level of difficulty: Difficult (1451m ascent)