The best gravel rides around Merlas
4.8
(10)
85
riders
12
rides
Gravel biking around Merlas features a diverse landscape, characterized by mountainous passes, tranquil canals, and a notable lake. The region offers varied terrain, from challenging ascents through the Chartreuse massif to flatter sections alongside waterways. Gravel bike trails in Merlas navigate through a mix of forested areas, open valleys, and routes with significant elevation changes.
Best gravel bike trails around Merlas
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Charmette Pass – Col de la Charmette loop from Saint-Laurent-du-Pont, a…
Last updated: August 25, 2026
4.0
(3)
15
riders
53.1km
03:50
1,360m
1,360m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
20
riders
37.1km
02:28
530m
530m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
11
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
riders
34.1km
02:26
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The 2nd half of the North face has been redone recently, a beautiful and very smooth cycling path. Road quite busy (1 of the entrances to Chartreuse from Grenoble)
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Nice flat gravel path to avoid the very busy road between St Laurent du Pont and St Joseph de rivière, up to the Demay bridge. Runs along the l'Herretang canal
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0
Small pass, easy climb from the north, great descent to the south.
1
0
Small place, but suffers greatly from the busy main road.
2
0
Small bridge, unfortunately unpaved cycle path, but beautiful landscape, partial views of the Chartreuse.
2
0
Unfortunately unpaved cycle path, but beautiful landscape, partly views of the Chartreuse.
3
0
Unpaved cycle path Via Chartreuse
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Merlas?
There are over 20 gravel bike routes in the Merlas region, offering a diverse range of experiences from easy canal-side rides to challenging mountainous ascents.
Are there easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners in Merlas?
Yes, Merlas offers several easy gravel bike routes perfect for beginners. For example, the Via chartreuse – Canal de l'Herretang loop from Saint-Joseph-de-Rivière is an easy 22.3 km path that provides a gentle ride along a canal and through the Via Chartreuse.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Merlas?
The terrain around Merlas is quite varied. You'll find routes with significant elevation changes through the Chartreuse massif, flatter sections alongside tranquil canals, and paths leading through forested areas and open valleys. The region is characterized by mountainous passes, canal-side paths, and lake views.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes for advanced riders?
Absolutely. For advanced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, the Merlas region has plenty to offer. A notable difficult route is the Charmette Pass – Col de la Charmette loop from Saint-Laurent-du-Pont, which is 53.2 km long and features significant elevation gain through mountainous terrain.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Merlas?
Many of the gravel bike routes in Merlas are designed as loops. For instance, the Lac de Paladru – Our Lady of the Vines loop from Montferrat offers a 34.1 km circular trail through varied landscapes including a lake.
What are some interesting natural sights or landmarks along the gravel bike trails?
Merlas offers several natural attractions along its routes. You can explore highlights like the Gorges du Crossey, the Grenant Stream, or enjoy views from the Croix des Cochettes View of Lac de Paladru. The region also features the beautiful Lake Paladru.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Merlas?
The gravel biking routes in Merlas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, from challenging mountain passes to serene canal paths and scenic lake views.
Are there any gravel bike routes that pass by lakes or water features?
Yes, the region is known for its lake views. The Lac de Paladru – Our Lady of the Vines loop from Montferrat is a great option, leading through varied landscapes including the notable Lake Paladru. You can also find routes along the Cycle Path on the Eastern Shore of Lac de Paladru.
Are there any routes that follow old railway lines or canals?
Yes, the Merlas area features routes that utilize former railway paths and canals. The Canal de l'Herretang – Via Chartreuse Cycle Path loop from Saint-Laurent-du-Pont is an excellent example, offering a gentle ride along the canal and the Via Chartreuse.
What is the typical length of gravel bike trails in Merlas?
Gravel bike trails in Merlas vary significantly in length. You can find shorter, easy routes around 20-25 km, such as the Via Chartreuse Cycle Path – Canal de l'Herretang loop from Entre-deux-Guiers (22.2 km), up to longer, more challenging rides exceeding 50 km, like the Charmette Pass – Col de la Charmette loop (53.2 km).
Are there any viewpoints or scenic overlooks on the gravel bike routes?
Yes, the mountainous terrain and lake regions offer several scenic viewpoints. A notable one is the Croix des Cochettes View of Lac de Paladru, providing stunning vistas of the lake and surrounding landscape.
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