The best gravel rides around Valencogne
4.5
(5)
15
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking around Valencogne offers routes through a landscape characterized by hills, lakes, and forested areas in the Isère region. The terrain includes ascents to cols and passes, alongside paths that circumnavigate bodies of water like Lac de Paladru. These features provide varied surfaces suitable for gravel cycling, from compacted earth to gravel tracks.
Best gravel bike trails around Valencogne
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Lac de Paladru – Our Lady of the Vines loop from Montferrat,…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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.
4.5
(2)
4
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
2
riders
25.8km
01:57
570m
570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
21.4km
01:25
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Located at the northern end of Lake Paladru, this wetland is fed by the Courbon stream. It is a true extension of the lake, rich in biodiversity and very pleasant.
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Here, you enter a sensitive natural area for a 1-kilometer trail marked with four stations to discover the area's remarkable flora and fauna. A pleasant way to connect the two shores of Lake Paladru, between Paladru and Montferrat.
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A tourist attraction in this area is Lake Paladru, which stretches from the village of the same name in the north to Charavines in the south. If you walk around the lake from a distance rather than on the paths directly along the shore, the hills offer some very beautiful views of the landscape. But not only that: on the outskirts of Bilieu – on the eastern shore of the lake – we pass a small sacred monument: a simple wayside cross made of two massive wooden beams (without a body or INRI inscription), which already shows the wear and tear of wind and weather.
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The small rest area created here, with its very unusual design, invites passersby not to roll by carelessly: Behind the backrest of the bench rises a remarkable piece of craftsmanship: on one side, a flower stem bearing an unfolded blossom; and from the other, a bee flies towards it. An original idea, and rightly documented here several times with photos.
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Here we encounter three stone cubes stacked on top of each other, each smaller than the one below it. The gray cubes each have a white field in the center of their sides, with a cross carved into it, painted blue and standing out against the gray/white background. This construction forms the basis for the present small sacred monument: above it rises a radiant gold figure of the Madonna. From this prominent position, the Virgin Mary – venerated in France almost always under the title "Notre-Dame" ("Our Lady") – gazes far into the country, and has done so for more than 120 years. @Rainer N. has already explained the date and reason for its construction in his short post.
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A very popular lake to visit during the summer months when the lake is quite refreshing. Every year, there is a time trial around the lake.
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Very beautiful natural lake of glacial origin in the Chartreuse. The tour of the lake is about 17 kilometers through forest and fields, and allows you to admire the landscape from all angles.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Valencogne?
There are over 10 gravel bike routes documented on komoot for the Valencogne area, catering to various skill levels.
Are there any gravel bike routes suitable for beginners or those looking for a moderate ride?
Yes, while many routes are challenging, you can find moderate options. For instance, the Lac de Paladru – Lake Paladru loop from Chirens offers a moderate 19.5 km ride, and the Lake Paladru – Lac de Paladru loop from Le Pin is another moderate choice at 17.4 km.
What is the longest gravel bike route near Valencogne?
The longest route listed is the Thousand Martyrs Pass – Col des Mille Martyrs loop from Chirens, which covers 52.2 km and features significant elevation gain.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the Valencogne area?
Yes, all the gravel bike routes highlighted in this guide are circular. Examples include the Lac de Paladru – Lake Paladru loop from Chirens and the Lake Paladru – Lac de Paladru loop from Le Pin, both offering scenic loops around Lac de Paladru.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Valencogne?
The terrain around Valencogne is characterized by a mix of compacted earth and gravel tracks, often featuring ascents to cols and passes, as well as paths that circumnavigate bodies of water like Lac de Paladru. You'll encounter forested areas and hilly landscapes.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Many routes offer views of Lake Paladru. You might also pass by cultural sites such as Our Lady of the Vines or the Saint John the Evangelist Church of Valencogne. For panoramic views, look for highlights like the Croix des Cochettes View of Lac de Paladru.
Are there any spots for wild swimming near the gravel trails?
The region is known for its lakes. Lake Paladru is a prominent feature, and you can find designated areas like Charavines Beach which might offer opportunities for a refreshing dip after your ride.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about cycling in Valencogne?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, which includes scenic lakeside sections, challenging climbs, and routes through tranquil forested hills.
Is parking available for gravel cyclists in Valencogne?
While specific parking locations aren't detailed for each route, starting points like Montferrat, L'Arsenal, Chirens, and Le Pin typically offer public parking options suitable for accessing the trails. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Valencogne?
The region's climate generally makes spring through autumn ideal for gravel biking, offering pleasant temperatures and stable trail conditions. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder weather and potentially wet or muddy sections, especially in forested areas.
Are there any gravel bike trails that pass by cafes or places to stop for refreshments?
Routes that circumnavigate Lake Paladru, such as the Lac de Paladru – Lake Paladru loop from Chirens, often pass through villages or towns situated along the lake shore, where you can typically find cafes or small shops for refreshments.
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