The best MTB trails around Réservoir D'Avène
4.7
(16)
88
riders
4
rides
Mountain biking around Réservoir D'Avène is set within the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park, offering a diverse landscape for riders. The region features dense forests of conifers, beech, and holm oak, alongside varied mountainous terrain that includes both gentle slopes and wild gorges. The artificial lake, Réservoir D'Avène, is a central feature, with routes winding around its turquoise waters and through the surrounding natural environment. This area provides a network of trails suitable for various mountain biking experiences.
Best mountain bike…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
4.4
(15)
43
riders
33.8km
03:03
680m
680m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
12.1km
00:49
220m
220m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
21.5km
01:57
580m
580m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
28
riders
36.6km
03:42
1,090m
1,090m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
41.5km
04:21
1,300m
1,300m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
The Avène Reservoir reveals itself at this bend. Magnificent!
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From the D8E13 bridge, the viewpoint offers a beautiful postcard of Avène and the Orb.
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This tiny and peaceful village, with a worldwide reputation for the benefits of its water, is a perfect location for hikers and gravel enthusiasts. You have many options of loops from there. Enjoy!
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In Ceilhes, you have to take the time to stroll through the medieval streets of the village and soak up the calm of the place. After enjoying the banks of the Bouloc lake and the pleasures of the beach in the summer, an alternation of paths and tracks in the cool atmosphere of a forest slope facing north allows you to reach the heights of the eastern shore of the Monts d'Orb lake. From Mont Redon, you can see far, in all directions.
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The bucolic charm of the places and the banks of the Orb is striking. The economy of Avène has always been based on significant mining activity that began under Roman rule and continued until 1954, when the Rabasse mines closed. Created in 1962 for hydroelectric production and regulation of the Orb, the Lac des Monts d'Orb (or Lac d'Avène) is 6 kilometres long and covers an area of 190 hectares. An old lead and silver mine is now submerged under the lake: the mines and their exploitation were a source of wealth for the Orb valley, from Antiquity until the 1950s. Today, it is above all nature that provides Avène with one of its benefits: water from the depths of the Languedoc earth. This water that has been shaping a destiny for two and a half centuries, a vocation inspired by Thermalism. It is impossible not to go to the Thermal Baths, a stone's throw south of the village (the markings of the Sentier des 2 Lacs allow you to reach the site on foot, and the connection is pretty!). The Thermal Baths site is peaceful, relaxing... like the range of well-being and beauty products from the Avène brand. Beyond the thermal area, there is a magnificent hotel and an excellent restaurant! The establishment is committed to a truly eco-responsible approach: use of local products, innovative and energy-efficient architectural and technical choices...
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A charming village nestled at the confluence of the Gravezon, the Nize and the Dourdou! The history of Lunas dates back to the Roman road that linked the lower Languedoc to Rouergue. Surely succeeding a Gallo-Roman oppidium, the Lunarenses castrum is mentioned as early as 806 in a charter of the Gélone abbey (that of Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert). The town is dominated by the Redondel rock, an ancient fortified castle belonging to the baron of Faugères, Viscount of Béziers. Razed in 1627, it was rebuilt on the banks of the Gravezon in 1641 by Henry de Narbonne. A true summary of the history of Languedoc, and a very pleasant cultural, refreshing and gastronomic stopover… A small detour to enjoy the leisure center of Prades, and a break on the site of the Saint-Georges chapel are essential in Lunas
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A village quite representative of Languedoc
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Very beautiful lake, in which you can swim
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when mountain biking around Réservoir D'Avène?
The Réservoir D'Avène area, nestled within the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park, offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find dense forests of conifers, beech, and holm oak, alongside varied landscapes that include both gentle, verdant mountains and wild, authentic gorges. The trails often wind around the turquoise waters of the artificial lake, providing scenic views and a mix of surfaces from forest paths to more rugged sections.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Réservoir D'Avène?
Yes, there are trails suitable for beginners. For an easier ride, consider the Avène Village – Avène, spa town loop from Avène. This 7.5-mile (12.1 km) path explores the charming village and its surroundings with minimal elevation gain, making it a great option for those new to mountain biking or looking for a relaxed outing.
Can I find challenging mountain bike routes near Réservoir D'Avène?
Absolutely. For more experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Pont des anglais loop from Moulès offer significant elevation changes and technical sections. This difficult 43.8 km route provides a demanding experience through varied terrain.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes around Réservoir D'Avène?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the area are circular. A popular option is the Lake Avène loop from Avène, a moderate 25.7-mile (41.3 km) trail that offers extensive views of the reservoir and surrounding forests. Another excellent circular route is the Liourel Pass loop from Le Bousquet-d'Orb, which is 21.4 km long and also rated moderate.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Réservoir D'Avène?
The region generally offers pleasant conditions for mountain biking from spring through autumn. The lush forests provide shade during warmer months, and the diverse terrain is enjoyable in milder temperatures. Summer can be warm, but the proximity to the lake and shaded trails makes it manageable. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Réservoir D'Avène?
The mountain bike trails around Réservoir D'Avène are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from 12 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the scenic views of the turquoise lake, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to various skill levels, from gentle forest paths to challenging ascents.
Are there any picturesque villages or cultural sites to explore near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, beyond the natural beauty, the area features charming villages. Avène itself is known for its circular architecture and thermal springs. Lunas, another nearby village, is classified as a green station and lies on one of the routes to Santiago de Compostela. These villages offer a chance to experience local heritage alongside your outdoor adventures.
Can I combine mountain biking with other outdoor activities around Réservoir D'Avène?
Absolutely. The Réservoir D'Avène and the Orb River provide opportunities for various water-centered activities. You can enjoy fishing, walking, and swimming at designated areas like the Le Bouloc lake. The extensive trail network also supports hiking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Is there a larger trail network that the Réservoir D'Avène routes are part of?
Yes, the region is part of a well-developed network of trails. For mountain biking, the area is notably part of the GRP® "Entre Deux Lacs Avène-Salagou" (EDLAS), which includes the "Sentier des 2 Lacs" and the "Tour du Lac du Salagou". This indicates a broader system of interconnected routes for exploration.
Where can I find more information about the Réservoir D'Avène itself?
The Réservoir D'Avène, also known as Lac d'Avène or Lac des Monts d'Orb, is an artificial lake created by the Monts d'Orb Dam. It stretches over 6 kilometers and is central to the area's appeal, offering breathtaking views. For more general information about the lake and its natural heritage, you can visit the Visit Occitanie website.
How many mountain bike trails are available in the Réservoir D'Avène area on komoot?
Komoot features several mountain bike routes around Réservoir D'Avène, offering a variety of experiences. Currently, there are 4 distinct mountain bike tours listed, ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels.
Most popular routes around Réservoir D'Avène
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