The best MTB trails around Champs

There are nearly 100 mountain bike trails available around Champs, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. The region features a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult routes.

Yes, Champs offers 8 easy mountain bike trails, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and elevation changes.

Mountain bike trails in Champs are characterized by a diverse landscape, including dense forest trails, scenic river valleys, and routes with elevated viewpoints. You'll encounter a mix of ascents and descents, often along the Sioule River or offering views of the Chaîne des Puys.

Absolutely. For experienced mountain bikers, Champs offers 16 difficult trails. One such challenging route is the Ébreuil Bridge over the Sioule – Sioule Viaduct loop from Saint-Hilaire-la-Croix, which covers over 113 km with significant elevation changes.

Trail lengths vary significantly. For example, the Happiness – Ébreuil Bridge over the Sioule loop from Champs is around 23 km and takes about 1 hour 55 minutes, while the Ébreuil Bridge over the Sioule – Arçon Castle loop from Saint-Agoulin is nearly 50 km and typically takes around 4 hours.

Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in Champs are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Forest trail – Ébreuil Bridge over the Sioule loop from Jozerand and the View of the Chaîne des Puys – View of Gour de Tazenat loop from Jozerand.

Along the trails, you can enjoy various natural and historical sights. Notable attractions include the Gour de Tazenat Viewpoint / Chaîne des Puys, the dramatic Gorges de Chouvigny, and the impressive Viaduc de Neuvial. Many routes also follow the scenic Sioule River.

The mountain biking experience in Champs is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 90 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful forest trails, and the scenic river valleys, as well as the views of volcanic chains like the Chaîne des Puys.

While mountain biking is possible year-round, the spring, summer, and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions. During these seasons, trails are typically dry and the weather is ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes of Champs.

No specific permits are generally required for mountain biking on the public trails around Champs. However, it's always advisable to respect local regulations and private property signs.

Many routes pass through or near small towns and villages, such as Ébreuil or Jozerand, where you may find local cafes or restaurants to refuel. It's always a good idea to check opening times or pack sufficient supplies for longer rides.