The best road cycling routes around Matour

Matour offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 30 identified tours. These routes cater to various skill levels, from moderate to difficult, allowing cyclists to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

The Matour region, often called 'Little Switzerland Macon,' is characterized by medium green mountains, rolling hills, and diverse woodlands. You'll encounter significant elevation gains, especially on routes ascending peaks like Mont Saint-Cyr (800m) and Mont Saint-Rigaud (1012m), providing challenging climbs and stunning viewpoints. Most routes are on paved surfaces, ideal for road cycling.

While many routes in Matour feature significant elevation, there are options for those seeking a more moderate experience. For example, the The mountain of Saint-Cyr — loop from Matour is a moderate 20.3 km route, offering a taste of the region's beauty without extreme difficulty. It's always good to check the route profile for elevation details before you go.

For experienced road cyclists looking for a challenge, Matour delivers. Routes like the Bois Clair tunnel – Lamartine House loop from Matour, a difficult 63 km path with over 940m of elevation gain, or the West side of Mont Brouilly – Boubon Pass (638 m) loop from Matour, an 83.8 km route with over 1500m of ascent, provide demanding rides through varied landscapes and mountainous terrain.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Matour are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the The mountain of Saint-Cyr — loop from Matour and the Panorama – Tramayes loop from Matour, which are popular choices for their scenic views and convenient circular paths.

Matour's routes offer numerous scenic opportunities. You can enjoy panoramic views from elevated areas like Mont Saint-Cyr and Mont Saint-Rigaud. Along the way, you might pass by highlights such as Mount Saint-Rigaud, or catch a View of Château de La Clayette. The region is also rich in historical sites, including various castles like Drée Castle and Montrouant Castle, and the famous Abbey of Cluny, which can be incorporated into longer rides.

The road cycling routes in Matour are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's varied terrain, from challenging mountain climbs to scenic rolling hills, and the well-maintained paved surfaces. The stunning views and diverse woodlands are frequently highlighted as key attractions.

While many routes in Matour involve significant climbs, some shorter, less strenuous sections or dedicated cycling paths might be suitable for families. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the flatter sections around the village or looking for routes with lower elevation gains. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile to ensure it matches your family's fitness level.

Matour, being a village focused on outdoor activities, generally offers parking options. You can typically find parking in the village center or near common starting points for routes. It's advisable to check local signage or tourist information upon arrival for the most convenient and designated parking areas for cyclists.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Matour, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though it's wise to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat, especially on routes with significant climbs. Winter can be challenging due to colder temperatures and potential for icy conditions on higher elevations.

Many routes pass through or near charming villages where you can find cafes, bakeries, or small shops to refuel. Matour itself has amenities. For longer routes, it's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially when venturing into more remote mountainous areas, as refreshment stops may be less frequent.

Beyond the cycling, Matour is surrounded by rich heritage. You can visit the 'Maison du Patrimoine' in Matour, an ecomuseum showcasing regional history. Further afield, the area boasts important castles like Cormatin, Drée, and Brancion, and the renowned Abbey of Cluny, all of which offer fascinating insights into the region's past and can be reached via scenic rides.