The best cycling routes around Saint-Denis-Sur-Coise

The routes around Saint-Denis-sur-Coise, nestled in the Monts du Lyonnais, offer a diverse landscape of rolling hills, valleys, and woodlands. You'll encounter a mix of climbs and descents, with elevations ranging from 451 meters along the Coise river to 721 meters at Les Prés. Many paths follow the tranquil Coise river, and some, like the Sentier des Moulins, feature significant paved sections, while others may include earth and gravel.

There are over 170 touring cycling routes available around Saint-Denis-sur-Coise, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes over 1,100 times.

The routes cater to various abilities. You'll find approximately 15 easy routes, 58 moderate routes, and over 100 difficult routes. This ensures options for everyone, from those seeking a leisurely ride to experienced cyclists looking for a challenge.

Yes, while many routes involve varied terrain, some sections, particularly along the Coise river or those with significant paved portions like parts of the Sentier des Moulins, can be suitable for families. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' or 'moderate' for more relaxed rides.

Along the routes, you can discover local heritage such as the ancient 'But de Samson' or 'Pierre de Samson'. The Sentier des Moulins allows you to explore historical mills, and a detour on the Sentier des Bords de Coise leads to the Chapel of La Salette, offering magnificent views of the Monts du Forez.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Saint-Denis-sur-Coise are designed as loops. Examples include the Plan d'Eau d'Yseron – Saint-Martin-en-Haut loop from Les Rameaux and the Rocaille bridge – La Salette Chapel loop from Coise, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, and the authentic rural charm of the Monts du Lyonnais.

Saint-Denis-sur-Coise is a great base for exploring nearby villages. You can cycle to Saint-Symphorien-sur-Coise (3 km away), known as one of France's 'most beautiful detours', or consider a longer ride to Malleval (35 km away), situated within a Regional Natural Park. Other accessible towns include Saint-Galmier (9 km).

While specific public transport options for cyclists directly to Saint-Denis-sur-Coise may be limited, the region is generally accessible. It's advisable to check local bus or train services in nearby larger towns for connections, keeping in mind that bike carriage policies can vary.

Yes, the extensive network of routes in the Monts du Lyonnais allows for longer rides. For example, the Plan d'Eau d'Yseron – Saint-Martin-en-Haut loop from Les Rameaux is over 55 km, providing a substantial touring experience. You can also combine shorter routes to create your own extended journeys through the region.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in the Monts du Lyonnais, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's wise to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winters can be colder, with potential for snow at higher elevations.