Cycling
Cycling along the Rhône or the banks of the Loire, exploring the volcanic lands of Auvergne, crossing the Iseran pass at 2770 m, cycling through the steep relief of the Vercors, exploring the wilderness of Ardèche, or exploring the mountain bike area of Bois Noirs in Auvergne, the largest in France… Discovering the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region by bike is an adventure for everyone and all tastes.
With 2,700 km of cycle routes and walking and cycling paths, including 580 km of EuroVélo routes, 1,000 structures with the Accueil Vélo label and six major mountain bike crossings, the region welcomes all cyclists, bikers, sportspeople, and amateurs.
It is a destination for long-distance travellers. The symbolic ViaRhôna route, where cycling enthusiasts of all generations meet.
Major events
Key people
Romain Bardet
A young champion from Auvergne among the best cyclists in France 
Cycling tourism: ViaRhôna
ViaRhôna follows the course of the Rhône over 815 km, from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. A major significant route since time immemorial, this itinerary is one of the emblematic cycling routes of the European network.
The extreme diversity of the landscapes along the river is one of its many attractions. Alpine panoramas, terraced vineyards, hilltop villages, lavender horizons and olive groves are the setting for many cycling trips. It is also a network of soft paths, protected walking and cycling paths and shared paths, facilitating slow and responsible tourism. Beyond the pleasures of the practice, ViaRhôna is an invitation to discover the identity of the soils, heritage, wines, and gastronomy.
The entire route has continuous signs and a slight difference in altitude except for the first 120 kilometres from Saint-Gingolph to Seyssel. Day trips or itineraries lasting several days, the ViaRhôna cycle route is accessible to all, including families.
Mountain bike: The Great Crossing of the Massif Central
The GTMC, the Grande Traversée du Massif Central is a reference for all mountain bikers! With 1,380 km dedicated to mountain bikes and electrically assisted bikes, this route is France’s longest mountain bike route and links the Morvan in Burgundy to the Mediterranean.
The natural beauty of the environment is one of the strong points of this occasionally sporting route. The crossing of 5 natural parks, including the Auvergne Volcanoes, offers a memorable setting! The signed paths are bordered by must-see sites such as the village of Charroux, classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", or the Sancy massif, the highest peak in the Massif Central at 1,886 m. A brief digression (on foot or by train) leads to the summit of the Puy de Dôme, offering a spectacular view of the puys chain and its 80 volcanoes.
A sporty variant makes it possible to reach the Pas des Alpins pass near the Lioran resort dominated by the Plomb du Cantal, the highest point of the largest volcano in Europe! Whether solo or in a duo, group or family, expert or amateur, the mountain bikers who embark on this route will build their own adventure along the way. The route has been designed to meet the needs of a wide range of riders, from the gentlest to the most committed. Some sections are particularly suitable for gravel!
Cyclosportive: La Route des Grandes Alpes ® (The Great Alps Route)
The crossing of the Alps by bike concentrates on the most beautiful mountain roads, the dream experience of all cyclists. From Thonon-les-Bains on the banks of Lake Geneva to the beaches of the Mediterranean, the route covers more than 700 km, crossing the most attractive road passes in the Alps and offering an unforgettable mountain journey!
Along the stages, from massifs to valleys, you will discover the legendary landscapes of the Alps: from the Chablais to the Beaufortain with the Mont-Blanc in the background, from the Tarentaise valley to the Maurienne valley, famous for the Iseran, Galibier, or Croix de Fer passes.
With more than 17,000 m of positive altitude difference, the Route des Grandes Alpes ® is a challenging route for sporty cyclists, who can opt for numerous variants. The route is easily accessible to all by electric bike (the route is marked out with recharging points). An outstanding adventure is to be planned between June and September.
The Dolce Via
The Dolce Via follows the route of old railway lines in the heart of Ardèche. Between Saint-Agrève and La Voulte-sur-Rhône, Le Cheylard and Lamastre, it follows the meandering waters along the valleys of the Eyrieux and Doux rivers.The natural setting of this 90 km of safe and well-maintained soft path seduces cyclists who can enjoy seven sections of 7 to 20 km with relatively low gradients.
This cycling route is an opportunity to enjoy a relaxing break of 2 to 6 days, 100% nature and without a car! Train-bike combinations and links with ViaRhôna at La Voulte-sur-Rhône multiply the possibilities.
The Dolce Via is also the dolce vita, the sweetness of life under the sun. The pleasures of local gastronomy, the atmosphere of the picturesque villages, the freshness of the bathing places, the discovery of the heritage. An interpretative route highlights the structures of the old railway, stone bridges, viaducts, and tunnels. A perfect route for families seeking a great cycling trip and discovery.
The Via Fluvia
Between the Loire and the Rhône, between Velay and Ardèche, the Via Fluvia is a former railway line converted into a walking and cycling path. This cycle route offers 120 km (in progress) of escape in a unique environment between gorges, volcanoes, and hills, linking the two rivers.
The Via Fluvia is not just a sporting experience but an experiential approach to nature and the soil. The suggestions for day trips or itineraries are always an opportunity to make a thousand and one discoveries. The diversity of places and atmospheres multiplies the centres of interest and pleasure.
Nature is full of unusual sites such as the Corboeuf ravine in Rosières, the “little Auvergne colorado”, a canyon of multicoloured clays, or the Suissesse gorges.
The Véloire
The Véloire offers access to the wildest banks of the Loire, the longest river in France. The spa resort of Montrond-les-Bains, overlooked by its castle, is the gateway to this 140 km cycle route to Paray-le-Monial in Burgundy.
The first two sections follow the small green roads following the course of the Loire to Roanne. The countryside, ponds, villages, and castles contribute to the peaceful atmosphere of the trip. The sweetness of life invites you to discover the region and its gourmet pleasures. Roanne, renowned for its famous Pralus chocolates from the Maison Pralus, is a place to visit!
Walking and cycling paths have been laid out on the former towpath of the Roanne canal to reach the next two stages. The country atmosphere, places to visit and safe environment are ideal for a pleasant escape. Don’t miss the Sornin bridge by Gustave Eiffel or the medieval town of Charlieu, one of the “Most Beautiful Detours of France”.
The Voie Bleue
The Voie Bleue runs for 700 km from Luxembourg to Lyon. It follows the waters of the Moselle, the Canal des Vosges and the Saône, forming the first cycling route in Eastern France.
The last three stages of the route cross the Val de Saône and the Beaujolais before reaching the meeting point of the Saône and the Rhône in the heart of Lyon. The capital of gastronomy, with its historic centre and its contemporary Confluence district, is the final stage of this cycle route... And possibly the beginning of another one! ViaRhôna follows this route, opening to other perspectives and other landscapes.
The Via Allier
This cycling route follows the course of the river Allier for 435 km, from its confluence with the Loire near Nevers to its source near Langogne. It offers all cyclists the opportunity to cross the Auvergne from north to south.
Whether in relaxation or sporty mode, the trip can be adapted to your level and desires. Whatever the formula, the diversity and identity of the region are highlighted along the way. From the town of Moulins to the spa resort of Vichy via the vineyards of Saint-Pourçain, the route passes through the wilderness of the Allier Valley.
From Clermont-Ferrand the route continues between the Auvergne Volcanoes and Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Parks before reaching the Allier gorges in the Haute-Loire. Along the route, charming stages follow one another, with the Auvergne volcanoes as a backdrop.
The Via Vercors
Routes adapted to all publics and all types of soft mobility to link the communes is the objective of the Via Vercors. Promoting car-free tourism, an ecological approach and experiencing the great outdoors is what the 55 km of routes in the Vercors Natural Park offer all year round.
Cycling through forest trails and wooded valleys, strolling through picturesque villages and hamlets, admiring the views, visiting farms and craftspeople’s workshops... Each ride reveals new landscapes, offers a glimpse of heritage and know-how.
The Maurienne, the largest cycling area in the world
If the Maurienne is so-called, it is because it is indeed gifted with an unequalled offer! An exceptional number of mythical passes are concentrated here, evoking the Tour de France or other challenges: the Télégraphe, Croix de Fer, Galibier, or Iseran passes.
The Maurienne is firmly committed to welcoming cyclists and has a dense and high-quality network of facilities: Sixty routes for cyclists, 11 major passes, three major touring loops and four mountain bike sites. There are also more than 100 establishments adapted to the needs and expectations of cyclists riding road bikes, mountain bikes or electrically assisted bikes.
FFC (French Cycling Federation) Massif des Bois Noirs Mountain bike area
In the centre of the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes region, between Clermont-Ferrand and Saint-Etienne, the Bois Noirs massif is home to the largest mountain bike area in France approved by the French Cycling Federation (FFC).
This vast playground is open to mountain bikers looking for nature, whether beginners, experts, or enthusiasts. With 70 green, blue, red, or black circuits, for 1475 km of FFC approved trails; it is an inexhaustible source of sporting adventure and discovery. Located in the heart of one of the oldest forests in Europe, this area offers an exceptional environment accessible all year round. A paradise for mountain bikers who can enjoy a variety of experiences throughout the seasons.
Grande Traversée de la Haute-Loire (Haute-Loire Mountain Bike Tour) by mountain bike
With more than 600 km to cover in 10 to 14 days and 17,000 m of positive altitude difference, the Grande Traversée de la Haute-Loire is guaranteed to be a great adventure. The route is designed for mountain bikes and electrically-assisted bikes and exploits the diversity of the terrain.
From Puy-en-Velay to the Plateau de la Chaise-Dieu via the Allier gorges, from the banks of the Loire to the volcanic landscapes of the Massif du Meygal, the route forms a loop combining the pleasures of sport, nature, and hiking. At each stage, expert or amateur bikers are welcomed in accommodation adapted to their expectations and needs. From secure parking to washing and recharging points for electrically-assisted bikes, comfort is guaranteed!
Tools at your disposal
ViaRhôna - The cycle route alongside the river Rhône
41 février 2023
The Voie Bleue - Moselle & Saône by bike
41 février 2023
Outdoor activities in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
41 février 2023
The Voie Bleue - Moselle & Saône
41 février 2023
Cycling in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
40 février 2023