The best cycling routes around Les Planches-En-Montagne

There are nearly 200 touring cycling routes in the Les Planches-En-Montagne region, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult.

Yes, the region offers 13 easy touring cycling routes. While specific family-friendly routes aren't detailed, easy routes are generally more accessible. For a moderate option that is shorter, consider the Pont du Bief de la Ruine – Bief de la Ruine Tunnel loop from Foncine-le-Bas, which is 11.9 miles (19.2 km) long and leads through river valleys.

For experienced touring cyclists, there are 106 difficult routes. A challenging option is the Lac de Joux – Chapelle-des-Bois loop from Foncine-le-Bas, a 56.8 miles (91.4 km) trail with extensive views and significant ascents. Another demanding route is the Petit Maclu Lake – Lac de Narlay loop from Les Arboux, covering 34.2 miles (55.1 km) through varied lake landscapes.

Many routes in the region are designed as loops. Examples include the Lac de Joux – Chapelle-des-Bois loop from Foncine-le-Bas, the Petit Maclu Lake – Lac de Narlay loop from Les Arboux, and the Pont du Bief de la Ruine – Bief de la Ruine Tunnel loop from Foncine-le-Bas.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can encounter stunning waterfalls like the Saut Girard Waterfall and the Bief de la Ruine Waterfalls. There are also picturesque lakes such as Petit Maclu Lake and Lake Ilay, often with viewpoints like the Three Lakes Viewpoint. The Langouette Gorges also offer dramatic scenery.

The region's diverse landscape, with lakes and river valleys, is generally best enjoyed from spring through autumn when the weather is milder and the natural scenery is vibrant. Winter cycling might be possible on some routes, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, some routes incorporate notable structures. For instance, the Pont du Bief de la Ruine – Bief de la Ruine Tunnel loop from Foncine-le-Bas passes by a tunnel, and the Crottes Viaduct – Chapelle-des-Bois loop from Foncine-le-Bas features a viaduct, offering unique points of interest along the ride.

The touring cycling routes around Les Planches-En-Montagne are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, scenic lake views, and the well-maintained paths that traverse natural areas.

While specific public transport links directly to trailheads are not detailed, Les Planches-En-Montagne is a small commune in the Jura mountains. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional train services to nearby towns like Champagnole or Morez, and then plan your cycling route from there. Parking is generally available in and around the villages for those arriving by car.

The terrain around Les Planches-En-Montagne is characterized by a mix of lakes, river valleys, and varied elevation. You'll find routes that traverse natural areas, often incorporating scenic waterways and forested sections, offering both flat stretches and significant climbs, depending on the route's difficulty.

Yes, there are 74 moderate touring cycling routes available. A good option is the Mouthe – Chaux-Neuve loop from Foncine-le-Bas, which is 20.7 miles (33.3 km) long and offers a balanced challenge for intermediate riders.