The best cycling routes around Lods
4.5
(152)
1,269
riders
81
rides
Touring cycling routes around Lods traverse the picturesque Loue Valley, characterized by the Loue River and its waterfalls. The region features dramatic limestone cliffs, steep gorges, and rolling hillsides, historically terraced for vineyards. The wider Jura Mountains provide a natural environment with varied topography, offering diverse cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes around Lods
- The most popular touring cycling route is Vuillafans – Val d'Ornans cycle path loop from Lods, a 15.7 miles (25.3 km) trail that takes 1 hour 50 minutes to complete. This moderate route follows the scenic Loue River.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lods – Cléron Castle loop from Lods, a difficult 32.1 miles (51.6 km) path. This route offers significant elevation gain and views of the surrounding Jura landscape.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Vuillafans – Old railway bridge loop from Doubs, a 26.9 miles (43.2 km) trail leading through the Loue Valley, often completed in about 3 hours 5 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lods is defined by the Loue River, limestone cliffs, and the rolling terrain of the Jura Mountains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate rides to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Lods are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 1,200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lods's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.3
(8)
78
riders
25.3km
01:51
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(7)
27
riders
52.0km
03:32
690m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(6)
29
riders
47.6km
03:14
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
13.1km
01:01
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
23.4km
01:49
630m
630m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Lods
Tips from the Community
Vulliafans with around 700 inhabitants in the Doubs department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region - a magical place with the Pont Vieux - this bridge with its 3 arches was built in the 17th century. Further into the town center there are numerous town and farm houses that were built in the characteristic style of Franche-Comté in the 16th to 18th centuries. One of the oldest houses is the former manor house La Forteresse from the 14th/15th century. The really beautiful thing is the authentic flair.
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A beautiful valley - very relaxing to drive. La Roche Bottine is the right-hand rock edge that you see above Ornans. It is on the right of Ornans towards Lahier, above the D492 The left-hand rock edge is the Belvédére de Notre-Dame du Mont. Curious rock... its special shape inspired its name: La Roche Bottine
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Le Bonnet is a magnificent panoramic viewpoint in the Gorges de Noailles, located in the Jura region. View of the Loue: Le Bonnet offers a breathtaking view of the Loue River. The reflections of the sun on the turquoise and emerald water are a real spectacle. After rain, the path can be slippery, so be careful and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
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The Cascade de Syratu is an impressive waterfall that cascades over the rocky cliffs of the Baume above Mouthier-Haute-Pierre in the Doubs department. With a total height difference of 230 metres, it is the largest waterfall in the department. The waterfall consists of several levels: The upper part begins with an almost vertical drop of 50 metres from the edge of the plateau at a height of 600 metres. This is followed by a second vertical drop of 32 metres, which brings the water to the level of the road. The lower part of the waterfall extends over a wooded slope and ends at the Loue river, where there are several waterfalls covered with tufa. To get a general view of the waterfall, you should climb up the left bank after crossing the old bridge over the Loue. The middle part of the waterfall is visible from the road that goes up to the gorges. The lower part, with its wild tuff massifs, can be reached on foot via paths that start on either side of the small bridge over the Syratu stream.
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The arch of the old bridge over the Loue is a historical vestige located in Vuillafans. This arch was perhaps built in the 14th century. During the construction of the N 67, several arches were covered. The bridge collapsed in 1916, but one arch was preserved as a souvenir. The site, including the Loue waterfalls, the arch of the old bridge and their surroundings, was listed as a historical monument on 4 January 1943.
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This 18th century church surprises with its pointed bell tower of tuff and its wealth. The woodwork and statues of the high altar are the work of Fauconnet. Beautiful, carved pulpit.
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The Église de l’Assomption de Vuillafans is a historic church building in Vuillafans, located in the Doubs department, France. Construction of the church began in 1429 and lasted until its consecration in 1522. It has a striking architecture with a clocher-porche and ogival vaults. The furnishings include a beautiful retable from 1702, a pulpit from 1704 and paintings from around 1515. The church has been registered as a historical monument since 1939.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lods?
There are over 75 touring cycling routes around Lods, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The region is well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars.
What are the typical characteristics of touring cycling routes in Lods?
Routes in Lods often feature the scenic Loue Valley, with the Loue River and its waterfalls, dramatic limestone cliffs, and rolling hillsides. You'll find a mix of moderate rides and more challenging ascents, with varying distances and elevation gains. For example, the Vuillafans – Val d'Ornans cycle path loop from Lods is a moderate 25.3 km route with about 150 meters of elevation gain.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Lods offers several easier routes. There are 8 routes classified as easy, and 38 as moderate, which can also be suitable for families or those looking for a less strenuous ride. These often follow flatter sections along the river or through valleys.
What kind of natural attractions can I expect to see along the cycling routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past impressive sites like the Source de la Loue, where the river emerges from a spectacular cirque, or the Source du Pontet with its powerful waterfall. Other notable features include the Gorges de Noailles, dramatic White Limestone Cliffs, and various viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the Loue Valley, such as the Renédale Viewpoint.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. Lods offers 30 difficult routes for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances. An example is the Lods – Cléron Castle loop from Lods, a difficult 51.6 km path with over 670 meters of elevation gain, providing stunning views of the Jura landscape.
What are some cultural or historical points of interest to explore while cycling?
Lods itself is a designated 'most beautiful village of France' with well-preserved 16th and 17th-century winegrowers' houses, the St. Theodule church, and a wine museum. The historic Lods Castle adds to the village's charm. Cycling through the region, you might also pass through picturesque settlements like Ornans or Vuillafans, which offer glimpses into local life and architecture.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Lods are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For instance, the The Loue – Lods loop from Lods is a moderate 13 km circular route that starts and finishes in Lods.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Lods?
The picturesque landscapes of the Loue Valley and Jura Mountains are particularly inviting from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally favorable for cycling, allowing you to fully enjoy the natural beauty, waterfalls, and cultural sites. Winter cycling might be more challenging due to weather conditions in the mountains.
Are there options for parking near the touring cycling routes in Lods?
As a village recognized for its beauty and outdoor activities, Lods typically offers parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for designated parking areas, especially when starting a longer route.
Can I access touring cycling routes in Lods using public transport?
While Lods is a charming village, public transport options directly to trailheads might be limited. The broader Jura Mountains region promotes cycling, but for specific route access, it's often more convenient to arrive by car or check regional bus schedules for connections to larger towns like Ornans, and then cycle to Lods.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lods?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse terrain, from river valleys to challenging ascents, and the stunning natural beauty of the Loue River, its waterfalls, and the dramatic limestone cliffs. The blend of unspoilt nature and charming villages like Lods also receives high acclaim.
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