The best cycling routes around Sauze

The touring cycling routes around Sauze offer a diverse landscape. You'll encounter high alpine peaks and passes, rough forest roads, and historic military tracks within the Susa Valley. Many trails also traverse through lush forests of firs, larches, and Swiss stone pines, especially within the Gran Bosco Natural Park, and feature rugged, rocky sections.

While many routes in Sauze are challenging, there are a few options suitable for beginners. Out of the over 50 touring cycling routes available, 2 are rated as easy. These typically offer less elevation gain and shorter distances, providing a good introduction to cycling in the region.

For those seeking a longer challenge, the Cayolle Pass – Bachelard Gorges loop from Guillaumes is a difficult 113.9 km path featuring substantial climbs and descents through alpine scenery. Another significant route is the Saint-Martin-d'Entraunes – Cayolle Pass loop from Guillaumes, covering 65.1 km with considerable elevation changes.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Sauze are designed as loops. For example, the Péone et Valberg – loop at the gates of the Mercantour National Park is a popular 30.4 km circular trail. Another option is the View of the Gorges du Var – Bride's Bridge loop from Guillaumes, a 27.5 km loop through mountainous landscapes.

The routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can encounter impressive mountain passes like Col du Raton and Col de Valberg. Natural monuments such as the Red Slate Plateau and the serene Lacs de Lignin are also accessible. The region is also known for its unique Péone Rock Formations.

The warmer months are ideal for touring cycling in Sauze. The region transforms from a ski resort into a cycling paradise, with high alpine passes becoming accessible. Summer often features 'Bike Only' days on famous cols like Galibier and Izoard, offering exclusive access to cyclists.

Yes, a unique aspect of cycling in Sauze is the opportunity to explore old military roads. These routes often lead to some of Europe's highest forts, such as Fort Jafferau (2775m), providing both a challenging ride and a glimpse into the region's history.

The touring cycling routes in Sauze are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an impressive average score of 4.9 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the challenging alpine climbs, the breathtaking scenery, and the extensive network of trails that cater to various skill levels.

While many routes are geared towards experienced riders, Sauze does offer trails suitable for various skill levels, including some easier options. The Gran Bosco Natural Park, with its scenic trails through forests and meadows, can provide a more relaxed environment for family cycling, though specific dedicated family routes may require local inquiry.

Beyond touring cycling, Sauze is part of the Alpi Bike Resort, offering hundreds of kilometers of trails, including over 50 freeride routes. The Sauze d'Oulx Bike Park, accessible by lift from Sportinia, provides fantastic tracks with elements like trampolines and hairpin bends, as well as enduro trails that preserve natural characteristics like gravel and rocks.

There are over 50 touring cycling routes available around Sauze, offering a wide range of distances and difficulty levels to explore the diverse alpine landscape.

Many routes offer spectacular viewpoints. High alpine passes like Champs Pass provide panoramic vistas. The Tête de Rigaud summit also offers incredible views, and routes through the Susa Valley often reveal breathtaking alpine scenery.

Among the most challenging routes is the Cayolle Pass – Bachelard Gorges loop from Guillaumes. This difficult 113.9 km path involves significant elevation gain of over 2800 meters, making it a demanding ride for experienced touring cyclists.