The best cycling routes in Doubs

Doubs offers a wide array of touring cycling routes, with over 2,800 options available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy greenways to more challenging trails across diverse landscapes.

Yes, Doubs has numerous easy routes perfect for beginners and families. Many sections of the EuroVelo 6, which traverses Doubs along the Doubs River, are known for their accessible greenways. An example is the Besançon — Avanne, loop through the city center and along the Doubs, which is an easy 18.8 km ride.

The terrain in Doubs is highly diverse. You'll find routes along river valleys with gentle slopes, through extensive forests and open meadows, and across plateaus. Some routes, particularly in the Haut-Doubs region, feature more significant elevation changes as they ascend towards peaks like Mont d'Or, offering a mix of flat sections and climbs.

Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Doubs offers routes with considerable elevation gain. For instance, the Loop 2: Between the Ornans plateau and the source of the Loue covers over 60 km with more than 900 meters of ascent. Another challenging option is the Le Val d'Ornans et le Plateau du Doubs — loop from Ornans, which is nearly 50 km long with over 670 meters of climbing.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Doubs are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the From Douvot to Baumes-les-Dames — circuit via the EV6 along the Doubs and the Saint-Vit to Arc-et-Senans — loop via the Réserve biologique intégrale de Chaux.

Doubs is rich in natural beauty. Many routes follow the Doubs River, offering views of its gorges and forested banks. You can encounter impressive natural features like the Saut du Doubs Waterfall, a 27-meter cascade on the French-Swiss border. Other highlights include the Mont d'Or, offering panoramic views, and the tranquil Source de la Loue.

Yes, several routes incorporate historical and cultural points of interest. The EuroVelo 6, for example, passes through Besançon, where you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Citadel of Besançon. Another route, such as the Saint-Vit to Arc-et-Senans loop, can lead you near the Saline Royale d'Arc-et-Senans, another UNESCO site and architectural marvel.

The best time for touring cycling in Doubs is generally from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming flowers, while summer provides warm temperatures ideal for longer rides. Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage, making for picturesque journeys. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

Yes, many towns and villages along the touring cycling routes in Doubs offer parking facilities. Major starting points for routes, especially in larger towns like Besançon or Baume-les-Dames, typically have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check specific route details or local tourist information for parking options at your chosen starting point.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 4,300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the serene river valleys to the extensive forests and picturesque plateaus. The well-maintained network of routes, including sections of the EuroVelo 6, and the opportunity to discover charming villages and natural wonders like the Saut du Doubs, are frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Ognon Valley is a beautiful area for touring cycling. You can explore this region on routes such as the Ognon Valley and Le Chemin Vert Loop, which offers a moderate 29.8 km ride through its scenic landscapes.

Yes, the Doubs River is central to the region's cycling appeal. The EuroVelo 6 (EV6) follows the Doubs River for a significant portion, offering picturesque journeys. A particularly scenic 160 km section of the EV6 runs from Montbéliard to Dole, passing through Besançon, and is known for its greenways and river scenery.