4.7
(30)
299
riders
44
rides
Touring cycling around Espinchal offers routes through a diverse landscape at an elevation of 1000 meters (3280 ft.), situated between the Cézallier and Sancy regions. The area is characterized by vast pasture mountains, providing open vistas and undulating terrain. Volcanic landscapes, including features from the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park, create unique geological formations and panoramic views. Small streams and serene peat bogs dot the scenery, contributing to a varied natural environment for touring cyclists.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
6
riders
27.7km
01:53
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
122km
09:00
2,180m
2,180m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.8
(4)
18
riders
75.3km
05:21
1,310m
1,320m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
39.4km
02:44
750m
750m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
112km
07:54
1,990m
1,990m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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very pretty pass typical of Cezallier
1
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Why didn't you make the Luguet signal? You have to go through Parrot... a place called. After the GR path... to the Luguet woods.
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former small monastery complex
3
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Lake Chambon owes its origin to a volcanic flow that obstructed the Couze Chambon. Beaches are set up on the northern and western parts of the lake but it is possible to go around it to enjoy the calm of nature on the southern banks.
1
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Too bad that the only refreshment point reported nearby is closed
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0
Rather rolling gravel track (there is a small part of bitumen in the middle) which offers a magnificent panorama of the summer pastures with the Monts du Cantal on the horizon. Access from the col de chamaroux is a little more technical in gravel but it is quite playable. The reward at the top is a postcard landscape!
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Espinchal offers a good selection of touring cycling routes, with 38 distinct tours available. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every cyclist.
Touring cyclists in Espinchal will experience diverse landscapes, including vast pasture mountains offering open vistas and a sense of freedom. The region is also characterized by impressive volcanic formations from the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Park, small streams, and serene peat bogs, providing picturesque and varied scenery.
Yes, many routes in Espinchal are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Upper Lake of La Godivelle – La Godivelle loop from Espinchal is a popular circular route that takes you through beautiful pasture mountains.
Yes, you can encounter waterfalls on some routes. The Entraygues Waterfalls and Lake – Entraigues Waterfall loop from Massif Central is a moderate path that passes by the picturesque Entraygues Waterfalls, offering a refreshing stop.
While cycling, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The region is home to volcanic lakes like Lake Pavin and Lac Chauvet. You might also encounter historical sites such as the Saint Nicolas Church, an unusual Romanesque church built on a basalt flow plateau. For panoramic views, consider routes near the View of Mont Chamaroux and the Cézallier mountains or the Colline de Natzy.
Yes, Espinchal offers routes suitable for various abilities. There are 2 easy touring cycling routes, perfect for families or beginners looking for a gentler ride. These routes allow you to enjoy the scenery without overly challenging terrain.
The best time for touring cycling in Espinchal is generally during the warmer months, from late spring to early autumn. This period offers pleasant weather for enjoying the open vistas of the pasture mountains and the volcanic landscapes. Always check local weather conditions before heading out, especially given the region's elevation.
The touring cycling routes around Espinchal cater to a wide range of abilities. You'll find 2 easy routes, 9 moderate routes, and 27 difficult routes, providing options for casual riders to experienced cyclists seeking more challenging ascents through the undulating terrain.
Absolutely. The region's vast pasture mountains and volcanic origins provide numerous opportunities for stunning panoramic views. Routes that traverse mountain passes like Volpilière Pass or areas near the Colline de Natzy (mentioned in regional research) are excellent choices for breathtaking vistas of the Artense plateau, the Massif du Sancy, and the Cantal mountains.
The touring cycling experience in Espinchal is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 26 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse natural features, from expansive pasture mountains to impressive volcanic formations, and the serene atmosphere of the small streams and peat bogs.
Yes, for those seeking longer adventures, Espinchal serves as a great starting point. The La Godivelle – Besse loop from La Godivelle, though starting nearby, is a challenging 105 km route that showcases the extensive network available for long-distance touring through the region's varied terrain.
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, Espinchal and nearby villages offer amenities. The presence of major trails like the GR30 and Le Tour des Vaches Rouges suggests that routes often pass through or near villages where you can find places to rest and refuel. The Moulin d'Arteil waterfall also provides a peaceful spot for a break.


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