4.5
(171)
312
riders
67
rides
Mountain biking around Les Ternes, a commune in France's Cantal department, offers varied terrain for outdoor enthusiasts. The region features significant elevation changes, ranging from 896 to 1,061 meters (2,940 to 3,481 ft), providing conditions for challenging rides. Part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, the area is characterized by its mountainous and volcanic landscapes. These natural features contribute to a diverse environment for mountain bike trails Les Ternes.
Last updated: June 17, 2026
4.3
(3)
23
riders
28.3km
02:29
620m
620m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(44)
10
riders
29.6km
02:33
490m
480m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

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5.0
(19)
9
riders
23.1km
01:47
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
riders
28.1km
02:06
290m
290m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
8
riders
19.6km
01:42
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The name of Saint-Flour comes from Florus, a bishop who came to evangelize the region in the 4th century. The city, located on a volcanic promontory, is doubly protected by ramparts and fortified gates. In the 14th century, the city, due to its importance within the Cantal region, received the prestigious title of religious capital of Haute-Auvergne. The numerous buildings from this period are an integral part of the city and contribute to its beauty.
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Paulhac is a small town of just over 400 inhabitants which is part of the regional natural park of the volcanoes of Auvergne.
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Unobstructed view of the Monts du Cantal. Just behind the church of Tanavelle, you will find an orientation table.
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Country of Art and History, Saint-Flour is a medieval city perched on a volcanic promontory.
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This section is done by following the Quatre charreire circuit
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Along the Ander, you cycle out of the town of Saint-Flour on a beautiful riverside cycle path.
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The town of Saint-Flour lies on a basalt plateau of volcanic origin. Here, you can enjoy wonderful views of the town from above. The medieval old town, surrounded by a defensive wall made of volcanic stone, is worth a stroll. You'll also find several restaurants to refuel after a bike ride.
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There are over 70 mountain bike routes available around Les Ternes, catering to various skill levels. This includes 9 easy trails, 54 moderate trails, and 8 difficult trails, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to experienced riders.
Mountain biking in Les Ternes offers varied terrain with significant elevation changes, ranging from 896 to 1,061 meters (2,940 to 3,481 ft). The region is part of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, known for its mountainous and volcanic landscapes, providing a mix of climbs, descents, and scenic views.
Yes, there are 9 easy mountain bike trails around Les Ternes. An example is the Lascols swimming – Trail loop from Paulhac, which is approximately 19.6 km long with an elevation gain of about 182 meters, making it a good option for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
Many of the mountain bike routes around Les Ternes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Saint-Flour Medieval Town – Saint-Flour loop from Vibrezac is a popular circular route covering 28.3 km.
The trails around Les Ternes offer opportunities to see various landmarks and natural features. You might encounter historical sites like Sailhant Castle or Alleuze Castle. For natural beauty, consider routes that pass near the Truyère Gorges or offer views of the Plomb du Cantal.
Yes, you can find waterfalls near some mountain bike routes. The View of Plomb du Cantal – Muratel waterfalls loop from Paulhac is a moderate trail that leads through hilly terrain and includes viewpoints, potentially near the Muratel waterfalls. Additionally, the Babory Waterfall is another natural feature in the broader region.
The mountain biking experience in Les Ternes is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, significant elevation changes, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
For experienced riders seeking longer distances, routes like the Petit single de la Chaumette – Paulhac loop from Paulhac offer a challenging ride. This moderate trail is approximately 29.6 km long with an elevation gain of nearly 500 meters, providing a substantial workout through varied terrain.
Given the region's mountainous and volcanic landscapes, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for mountain biking. Summer can also be suitable, though it might be warmer, while winter could bring snow at higher elevations, impacting trail accessibility.
Yes, nearby towns like Saint-Flour offer amenities such as cafes, pubs, and accommodation. Paulhac is another village close to several trailheads, providing convenient access to the routes.
The elevation gain on mountain bike trails in Les Ternes varies significantly. Shorter, easier rides might have around 180 meters of elevation gain, while longer, more demanding routes can feature over 600 meters of ascent, such as the Saint-Flour Medieval Town – Saint-Flour loop from Vibrezac.


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