The best road cycling routes in Biel/Bienne

Biel/Bienne offers a wide variety of road cycling experiences, with over 280 routes available. These routes cater to all skill levels, from easy lakeside rides to challenging mountain climbs.

The region provides diverse terrain for road cyclists. You'll find challenging ascents and panoramic views in the Jura Mountains, serene lakeside paths along Lake Biel, and flatter routes through the fertile Seeland plain. The Aare River also offers scenic rides through varied landscapes.

Yes, there are several easy and moderate routes perfect for a relaxed ride. The Old Town, La Neuveville – Le Landeron Old Town loop from Festi/Château is a moderate 43.9 km route that takes you through charming old towns and along the lake with manageable elevation. The Lake Biel circuit is also a popular, predominantly paved option for a family-friendly experience.

For experienced cyclists seeking elevation, the Jura Mountains offer substantial climbs. Routes like the Circuit via the Montée des Prés-d'Orvin — from Bienne feature over 1000 meters of ascent over 49.9 km. Another demanding option is the Chasseral Summit and Viewpoint – View from the Chasseral summit loop from Leubringenbahn/Funi Evilard, which includes a significant climb to the 'King of the Jura' with nearly 1600 meters of elevation gain.

Many routes offer stunning views of Lake Biel and the surrounding vineyards, especially along the northern shore. You can also encounter natural wonders like the Taubenloch gorge and the Twannbach Gorge, though these are primarily hiking attractions. The Aare River also provides scenic stretches through woodlands and fields.

While the region is known for its gorges, you can find a Waterfall in Taubenloch Gorge. However, the gorges themselves are more suited for hiking, so while you might cycle near their entrances, direct access to the waterfall by road bike is limited.

The komoot community highly rates road cycling in Biel/Bienne, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene lake views and vineyards to the challenging mountain passes, and the variety of routes available for all skill levels.

Yes, many road cycling routes in Biel/Bienne are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Plagne – Plagne Climb loop from Nidau, a moderate 42 km ride, and the longer Ascent to Grenchenberg – Grenchenberg loop from Nidau Beunden, a difficult 75 km route with significant elevation.

The spring, summer, and autumn months generally offer the best conditions for road cycling in Biel/Bienne. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the landscapes are vibrant, making for pleasant rides along the lake, through vineyards, and into the mountains. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear and caution due to colder temperatures and potential snow or ice, especially at higher elevations.

Absolutely. The region is dotted with picturesque villages and historic old towns. The Aarberg Old Town loop from Brügg is a moderate 54 km route that takes you through the charming old town of Aarberg. Routes along Lake Biel's northern shore also pass through winemaking villages like Twann/Douanne.

Biel/Bienne is well-connected by public transport, making it convenient to access many starting points for road cycling routes. The city's central location and train station allow for easy travel with your bike to various parts of the region, including lakeside towns and mountain foothill villages.

Yes, the region is part of national cycling networks. For instance, Stage 5 of the national Aare Route runs from Biel to Solothurn, offering a scenic ride alongside the Aare River. Longer routes like the Col de Pierre Pertuis – Wiedlisbach Old Town loop from Safnern extend over 110 km, providing a full day's adventure.