The best cycling routes around Ravel
4.6
(84)
692
riders
140
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ravel traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, river valleys, and agricultural plains. The region features a mix of open countryside and areas dotted with historical villages and castles. Elevations vary, offering routes with both gentle gradients and more significant climbs. This terrain provides diverse options for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Ravel
- The most popular touring cycling route is Martailles Pond – Dallet bridge loop from Lezoux, a 41.9 miles (67.4 km)…
Last updated: October 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
26
riders
66.7km
04:47
440m
440m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
168km
10:20
1,220m
1,220m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
52.1km
04:29
980m
980m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
32.1km
02:44
410m
410m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5
riders
26.6km
02:09
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The site of Château de Maulmont was, in the 13th century, the Templar Commandery of la Gagère, built by the Grand Master of the Order of the Temple, Renaud de Vichy, upon his return from crusade in 1255. This Commandery of the Templar Order is built on the hills overlooking the banks of the Allier. Of the old castle, the wine cellars and some ivy-covered walls remain, pierced by doors with the Templars' coats of arms, battlements, and sculpted mullioned windows. At the beginning of the 14th century, Philippe Le Bel, King of France, took possession of all the Templars' properties and is said to have exchanged the Templars' fortress for residences belonging to Guillaume IV, based on an appraisal by the Count of Auvergne. Château de Maulmont was named after Agnès de Maulmont, wife of Guillaume IV, who came to live there after her husband's death. After the last descendant, Françoise de Maulmont, who died in the 15th century, the castle was inhabited by several nobles such as the Duchess of Praslin and the Marquis de Grollier. In 1829, H.R.H. Princess Adélaïde Louise d'Orléans (1777-1847), sister of King Louis Philippe d'Orléans (1773-1850) and owner of the royal domain of Randan, acquired the commandery of Maulmont. Princess Adélaïde had the Commandery demolished with the intention of building a hunting lodge on its site. In 1830, she entrusted the construction of Château de Maulmont to the architect Fontaine, to whom we owe the famous "Galerie des Batailles" at the Château de Versailles. King Louis Philippe used to come with the Court of France to hunt on the lands of Maulmont and Randan. In 1847, Maulmont passed by legacy to her nephew, Antoine d'Orléans (1824-1890), Duke of Montpensier. In 1886, the Montpensiers ceded the castle to Alfred du Guèrinet. In 1890, he commissioned the architect Honoré Vianne to transform the building into a true castle. These works mainly concern the wings flanking the entrance block, which were raised by one storey and whose flat roofs were transformed. Today, at Château de Maulmont, the memory of the past and the charm of the present coexist harmoniously.
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Small, rather inconspicuous "tower".
3
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Superb village, with its imposing castles! 🏰.
1
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Very pretty castle which can be visited at certain times, and in the adjacent woods there are very pleasant single tracks.
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Inaugurated in 1889, this Eiffel-type road bridge was recently restored with the addition of two separate lanes to make it safer for pedestrians/cyclists to cross the Allier River.
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Well located campsite near the Via Allier, ideal for cycle tourists and kayakers. Well-equipped common area, very clean toilets and friendly welcome. Lake 100m away, access to the town center via protected route.
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Located on the outskirts of the royal domain of Randan, the castle enjoys a breathtaking view of the Allier. Previously, it was the hunting lodge of Princess Adelaide, sister of King Louis-Philippe.
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At this point, you can see one of Vichy's natural springs. Now cut off, it houses a fresco depicting the city's thermal history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ravel?
There are over 140 touring cycling routes in the Ravel area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 12 easy routes, 58 moderate routes, and 79 difficult routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ravel?
The touring cycling routes around Ravel feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, picturesque river valleys, and expansive agricultural plains. You'll encounter both open countryside and areas dotted with historical villages and castles. Elevations vary, providing both gentle gradients and more significant climbs.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Ravel?
Yes, Ravel offers 12 easy touring cycling routes that are generally suitable for beginners or families looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature gentler gradients and shorter distances, allowing for an enjoyable experience for all skill levels.
What are some challenging long-distance touring cycling routes in Ravel?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Ravel has 79 difficult routes. A notable long-distance option is the Dallet bridge – Vic-le-Comte loop from Lezoux, which spans 98.6 miles (158.7 km) and features extensive rural landscapes and river valleys with significant elevation changes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Ravel?
Many touring cycling routes in Ravel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Martailles Pond – Dallet bridge loop from Lezoux, which connects natural ponds with historical bridges, and the Church in Culhat – Church in Vinzelles loop from Lezoux, which takes you through rural villages and past historical churches.
What historical landmarks can I see along touring cycling routes in Ravel?
The Ravel area is rich in history. You can explore several historical landmarks, such as the impressive Ravel Castle, the Medieval Center of Billom, and the unique The lantern of the dead at Culhat. The Mauzun Castle – Ravel Castle loop from Lezoux specifically connects two prominent castles.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ravel?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Ravel, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer, especially in the open plains. Winter cycling is possible but can be cold, and some routes might be less accessible.
Where can I find cafes or places to rest along the touring cycling routes?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Ravel pass through or near charming rural villages. These villages often have local cafes, bakeries, or small shops where you can stop for refreshments and a rest. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify such points of interest along your chosen path.
Are there options for parking near touring cycling routes in Ravel?
Yes, many starting points for touring cycling routes in Ravel, particularly in larger villages like Lezoux, offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local signage or use a mapping tool to locate suitable parking areas near your chosen route's starting point.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy about the routes in Ravel?
The touring cycling routes in Ravel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 45 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's varied terrain, which includes rolling hills and river valleys, as well as the opportunity to explore historical villages and castles along the way.
Are there any routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Given the region's rolling hills and river valleys, many routes naturally offer scenic viewpoints. For instance, routes that traverse higher elevations or follow riverbanks, such as the Ravel Church loop from Lezoux, often provide expansive views of the surrounding agricultural plains and distant landscapes.
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