The 6 best mountain bike routes to ride all year round
In this Article
Published on Wednesday, September 25, 2024
What are the best mountain biking routes to ride all year long? The most beautiful adventures shouldn't be limited to the summer season. Many mountain bike trails offer perfect conditions throughout the year to enjoy the beauty of France. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a micro-adventure in bikepacking, these free mountain bike trails allow you to pedal through nature for a unique experience. Their geographic location makes them easily accessible by public transport, allowing you to ride them all year round, whether you have a muscular mountain bike or an electric mountain bike. In this article, we've selected six of the best destinations for mountain biking in France, no matter the season. So, are you ready?
The 6 Best Mountain Biking Routes to Ride All Year Round
- Tour of the Drôme des Collines
- The Grand Traverse of the Creuse
- Tour of the Monts du Lyonnais
- The Grand Tour of Petit Luberon
- The Grand Traverse of the Morvan
- The Grand Traverse of Vaucluse
Choosing Your Mountain Biking Adventure
Choosing Your Mountain Biking Adventure - ©Dents du Midi
Choosing your mountain biking adventure should not be taken lightly, especially if you want to fully enjoy the experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cyclist, here are some key criteria to consider before hitting the trails for your next mountain biking adventure.
Difficulty Level
Each mountain biking route has its own difficulty level based on elevation gain, technicality of the terrain, and its length. If you're a beginner, prioritize routes with moderate profiles, not too much elevation, and minimal technical sections. On the contrary, if you have several rides under your belt, you can opt for more challenging circuits with steeper, more technical descents requiring precise handling and tougher climbs. In short, adjust your choice to your physical condition and experience to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Type of Terrain
Terrain plays a crucial role in choosing your mountain biking adventure. Some routes, like the tour of Petit Luberon, will take you through arid and rocky areas, while the Traverse of the Creuse offers softer forest trails. Make sure to choose terrain that appeals to you and matches your technical level. Rolling forest trails, rocky paths, or muddy tracks—mountain biking offers a wide variety of experiences.
Climate and Seasonality
One of the most important aspects to consider is the weather. Some routes, like the Grand Traverse of Vaucluse, pass through environments that may be harder to ride in winter due to weather conditions. Conversely, others, located in lowlands or temperate climates, will be more accessible. Check the local conditions before you set off. Consult the weather forecast or call the local tourist offices to get better informed.
Accessibility
Check the accessibility of the trails. Some paths are more remote and require good autonomy in water and food. It is also essential to know where the nearest emergency points are in case of problems. Routes like the Grand Traverse of the Morvan are further away from major cities and require more rigorous preparation.
Equipment
Finally, choosing your gear is one of the key points for a successful adventure. Whether you have a hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike, make sure to adapt your gear to the expected terrain, especially your tires and suspension, to maximize comfort and safety. If you're unsure about which mountain bike to choose, feel free to check our article on the topic.
Tour of the Drôme des Collines
Tour of the Drôme des Collines - ©Drôme Sud Provence
Located in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the Tour of the Drôme des Collines is a versatile route spanning 173 kilometers of marked trails. Suitable for both beginners and experts, this route takes you through rolling hills, orchards, and vineyards. The variety of terrain—between forest trails, farm roads, and low mountain paths—makes this route a real treat for novices and those who enjoy variety.
One of the highlights of this circuit is the breathtaking view of the Vercors and the Alps, which accompanies you throughout the journey. If you're passionate about heritage, you'll also be delighted by the picturesque villages you pass through. Usable all year round thanks to its temperate climate, the Drôme des Collines is perfect for a winter mountain biking escape when other regions are covered in snow.
To fully enjoy this route, a full-suspension or hardtail mountain bike with all-terrain tires is recommended. The terrain varies between gravel trails, dirt roads, and a few more technical uphill sections. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the fall when conditions can be wetter.
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The Grand Traverse of the Creuse
Grand Traverse of the Creuse - © Guillaume Condat
The Grand Traverse of the Creuse is another route that will appeal to cyclists seeking escape. Available in two versions, a small loop of 264 kilometers or a large loop of over 420 kilometers, the routes of the Grand Traverse of the Creuse explore bucolic landscapes in the heart of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. The Creuse, known for its dense forests and rolling fields, offers a calm and serene setting, far from the crowds. This route is ideal for intermediate cyclists, offering a good mix of climbs and descents without being too technical.
The route alternates between dirt roads and forest trails, with some smoother sections that allow you to enjoy the peaceful landscapes. You'll also pass through charming medieval villages, as well as rivers and lakes. In summer, it's a region that stays relatively cool, and in winter, though the cold can set in, the low snowfall makes the route rideable all year round.
For this circuit, a hardtail mountain bike is sufficient, with slightly wider tires for handling the wet conditions of autumn and spring. Don't underestimate the weather, as although the region is generally mild, showers can make some paths muddy.
Tour of the Monts du Lyonnais
Tour of the Monts du Lyonnais - ©Nicolas Joly
The Tour of the Monts du Lyonnais is a true gem for mountain bikers seeking an adventure near Lyon. This 180-kilometer circuit immerses you in mid-mountain, forests, and open fields. The route is technical in places and requires good physical condition. The sometimes steep climbs will challenge your legs, but the playful, fun descents coupled with the incredible panoramas are well worth the effort.
Throughout this route, you'll enjoy clear views of the Rhône Valley and the Lyon metropolis, as well as the opportunity to discover small, typical villages of the Monts du Lyonnais. In autumn, the forests take on vibrant colors, making the experience even more magical. The climate is moderate, with little snow in winter, making this tour an excellent option for year-round riding.
A full-suspension mountain bike with good-quality suspension is recommended to absorb the more rugged sections. Be sure to choose tires suited to mixed terrain, as you'll encounter both forest paths, rocky sections, and a few muddy passages.
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Grand Tour of Petit Luberon
Grand Tour of Petit Luberon - ©Dominique-Bottani
If you're looking for Provençal scenery for your mountain biking outings, the Grand Tour of Petit Luberon is for you. Located in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, this 71-kilometer route, which can be completed in a day, is a condensed version of the region's most beautiful landscapes. The trails wind through pine forests and fragrant scrubland, with breathtaking views of the Régalon gorges and perched villages like Bonnieux or Ménerbes.
The terrain is rocky and dry, making it a year-round ride, even after the autumn rains. However, beware of summer when temperatures can soar and access restrictions due to fire risk. In winter, sunny days and mild weather allow for comfortable riding. This route is suitable for intermediate mountain bikers, with some technical sections both uphill and downhill.
A hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike with good brakes is recommended, as some descents require good technical control. Make sure to bring enough water, especially if you're planning to ride in summer, as water points are scarce on this route.
The Grand Traverse of the Morvan
The Grand Traverse of the Morvan - ©Nièvre Tourisme
The Grand Traverse of the Morvan is a renowned route for mountain biking enthusiasts. This over 344-kilometer route crosses the Morvan Natural Park, a wild region located in Burgundy. With its dense forests, winding rivers, and pristine lakes, the Morvan offers an ideal setting for an adventure in nature. The terrain is demanding, with numerous climbs and technical descents requiring good physical condition.
Although the Morvan is often associated with wet conditions, it can be ridden year-round. In winter, the landscapes become even wilder, but some sections can get muddy. This route is for experienced cyclists, ready to face sometimes challenging conditions.
A full-suspension mountain bike is strongly recommended for this route, with wide tires to ensure maximum grip in muddy areas. Also, plan for cold-weather gear if you're riding in autumn or winter, as temperatures can drop quickly in this region.
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The Grand Traverse of Vaucluse
The Grand Traverse of Vaucluse - ©Damien Rosso
For a sunny experience year-round, the Grand Traverse of Vaucluse is an excellent choice. This nearly 300-kilometer route takes you through the typical landscapes of Vaucluse, with spectacular views of Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail. It's a varied route combining smooth sections and technical passages, perfect for intermediate to advanced cyclists. The variant from Bollène makes it easy to join the route by train.
The Mediterranean climate allows for year-round riding, with mild winters and sometimes scorching summers. However, it's best to avoid the hottest months of summer when the heat can make the effort intense.
A hardtail or full-suspension mountain bike is ideal for this route, with tires suited to dry and rocky trails. Be sure to protect yourself from the sun in summer and bring light but covering clothing.
Practical Tips for a Successful Mountain Biking Adventure
Practical Tips for a Successful Mountain Biking Adventure - ©Nicolas Joly
Before heading out on these trails, here are a few tips to optimize your experience. First, choose a mountain bike suited to the terrain you'll encounter. For rocky routes like the Luberon, a hardtail mountain bike with good tires with puncture-resistant reinforcements will be ideal, while for more technical regions like the Morvan, a full-suspension mountain bike will be your best ally.
Next, the weather plays a key role. In autumn and winter, waterproof and breathable clothing is essential to stay dry and warm. Always check the weather conditions before leaving, especially for mountainous areas like Mont Ventoux, where the weather can change quickly.
Finally, remember to stay hydrated, in summer but also in winter. Even if some routes take place in moderate climates, it's always important to bring enough water and a few energy bars to ensure you last the distance.
©Nicolas Joly
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced cyclist, these six mountain biking routes offer you the opportunity to pedal through breathtaking landscapes all year long. Each of these mountain biking adventures has its own characteristics, but they all share one thing in common: the joy of riding in nature, no matter the season. So, grab your bikes!
