The best cycling routes around Saint-Clément-Sur-Durance

There are over 200 touring cycling routes in the Saint-Clément-Sur-Durance area. These routes navigate the varied landscapes of the Hautes-Alpes, offering a mix of alpine slopes, perched roads, and scenic river-side paths along the Durance River.

The routes around Saint-Clément-Sur-Durance cater to a wide range of abilities. While the majority, about 140 routes, are classified as difficult, there are also 48 moderate routes and 14 easy options available for touring cyclists.

The touring cycling routes in Saint-Clément-Sur-Durance are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 450 reviews. More than 11,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area's varied terrain, often praising the unique topography of valleys, plateaus, and mountains.

Yes, there are family-friendly options available. For an easy and relatively short loop, consider the Mont-Dauphin and hot springs of the plan de Phazy loop. This 9.6-mile (15.5 km) trail is near the Queyras regional natural park and takes about an hour to complete, making it suitable for families.

Absolutely. The Durance River is central to the region's cycling identity. Many routes, including sections of the magnificent 170-kilometer 'La Durance à vélo' alpine cycling route, follow the river, offering picturesque scenery and opportunities to discover charming villages and natural features. For more information on the larger route, you can visit France Vélo Tourisme.

Yes, the mountainous terrain around Saint-Clément-Sur-Durance provides numerous opportunities for scenic views. The View of Embrun – The Balconies of the Durance loop is a popular choice, leading through the stunning Balconies of the Durance. You can also find breathtaking vistas from the Sarrasine Tower, locally known as the Tour Lombarde, which offers magnificent views of the 'pli couché' geological formation.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you might encounter the dramatic Gorges du Guil, the unique Parcours des Fées, or discover beautiful waterfalls like Cascade de la Pisse and Byasse Waterfall. The Durance River itself offers a rich tapestry of flora and diverse landscapes.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. An example of a challenging circular route is the Guil Gorges – Footbridge over the Guil loop from Montdauphin-Guillestre, which is 52.9 miles (85.2 km) long and explores the dramatic Guil Gorges.

Beyond the natural landscapes, you can visit the 13th-century Sarrasine Tower in Saint-Clément-Sur-Durance, offering historical insights and views. A short distance away, the Fortress of Mont-Dauphin, a UNESCO-classified Vauban fortification, provides a fascinating glimpse into military architecture and history.

Yes, the region features routes that offer views of stunning lakes. The 'La Durance à vélo' route, for instance, passes above the dramatic Serre-Ponçon Lake via the iconic Route des Puys. For a challenging loop that includes a lake, consider the Lac Napoléon – Col de Vars loop from Montdauphin-Guillestre.

The diverse landscapes, from alpine slopes to river valleys, make spring through autumn ideal for touring cycling. The weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to fully enjoy the varied terrain and natural beauty of the Durance River valley and surrounding mountains.

Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a significant challenge, routes like the Footbridge over the Guil – Lac Napoléon loop from Siguret offer substantial distances and elevation gains. This route covers 66.5 miles (107 km) with over 1500 meters of ascent, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.