The best road cycling routes around La Chapelle-En-Vercors

Road cycling around La Chapelle-En-Vercors offers a dramatic and varied landscape. You'll encounter routes carved into spectacular limestone cliffs, deep gorges like the Gorges de la Bourne, and diverse plateaus. The region is famous for its challenging mountain passes such as the Col de Rousset and Col de la Machine, as well as the exhilarating "Routes du Vertige" like the Cirque de Combe Laval.

Yes, while the Vercors is known for its challenging climbs, there are routes suitable for those looking for an easier ride. For instance, the Grands Goulets – La Chapelle-en-Vercors loop from La Chapelle-en-Vercors is an easy 19.4 km route that offers a less strenuous introduction to the region's beauty.

The Vercors region is rich in natural beauty. Cyclists often enjoy breathtaking views from mountain passes like the Col de la Machine, especially at the end of the remote karst of Combe Laval. The dramatic Choranche and Gorges de la Bourne offer spectacular scenery. You can also find natural wonders like the White Waterfall on the Vernaison River.

The best time for road cycling in La Chapelle-En-Vercors is generally from late spring through early autumn (May to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild, and the mountain passes are clear of snow, offering optimal conditions for exploring the varied terrain and dramatic landscapes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around La Chapelle-En-Vercors are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging Machine Pass – Cirque of Combe Laval loop from La Chapelle-en-Vercors and the moderate Proncel Pass – View of the Vercors Plateau loop from La Chapelle-en-Vercors.

The road cycling routes in La Chapelle-En-Vercors are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the dramatic gorges, challenging mountain passes, and the diverse plateaus, as well as the generally low traffic and well-maintained road surfaces that make for an exhilarating experience.

The Vercors region is famous for its challenging and scenic mountain passes. Key passes include the Col de Rousset, known for its panoramic vistas; the Col de la Machine, with its hairpin bends and incredible views; and the Col de Proncel, which links La Chapelle-en-Vercors with Vassieux-en-Vercors. The Carri Pass – Col de la Chau loop from La Chapelle-en-Vercors is another route that features multiple passes.

Yes, the region offers various options for cyclists. You can find huts and cabins that provide accommodation or refreshments. For example, the Malaterre Inn and La Ferme du Bois Barbu are popular spots. The village of La Chapelle-En-Vercors itself also provides amenities.

Beyond the natural beauty, the Vercors area holds significant historical importance, particularly related to the French Resistance during World War II. While cycling, you might consider visiting sites like the Mémorial de la Résistance or the Nécropole de Vassieux-en-Vercors, which offer a glimpse into the region's past.

Routes vary significantly in distance and elevation. You can find shorter, moderate loops like the Proncel Pass – View of the Vercors Plateau loop, which is 26.6 km with about 600m of elevation gain. More challenging routes, such as the Cirque of Combe Laval – Machine Pass loop, can be over 63 km with nearly 1500m of climbing, offering extensive views and significant challenges.

While many routes feature challenging climbs, the Vercors Regional Natural Park does offer sections and specific routes that can be enjoyed by families, particularly on flatter plateau areas or designated cycle paths. It's best to check individual route descriptions for difficulty and terrain to ensure it matches your family's cycling ability. The park's diverse landscapes provide a beautiful backdrop for any ride.