Cycling the ViaRhôna in Ain Photo: Ben Becker, Aintourisme

Cycling in the Ain

Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes,France

Aintourisme
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What would you say to an escape to the Ain? Here, cycling enthusiasts will find plenty to do, with numerous bike rides on safe, little-traveled itineraries. Whether you're on your own, with family or friends, explore the department's varied landscapes to your heart's content.

Pedal along the Rhône River, where young and old alike can enjoy the shady trails. Cross the vineyards of Bugey or Seyssel, where trails wind through the vines. And for the more adventurous, conquer the Plateau de Retord, an unspoilt natural setting.

Here are a few ideas for cycling tours to discover the Ain's characteristic landscapes at your own pace.

All Ain cycling itineraries are available on thefree Ain-Outdoor application: choose your route, get on your bike and enjoy the ride in visual or voice mode (downloadable GPX track).

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The most beautiful bike rides in the Ain

Bike Riding · Ain

Voie Verte La Traverse

recommended route Difficulty easy

39.7 km

3:00 h

110 m

70 m

Fully signposted and safe, reserved for non-motorized vehicles, and covered with a smooth, fully-rolling surface, La Traverse offers you the chance to walk or do sport on foot, bike, rollerblade or scooter.

Aintourisme

Bike Riding · Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

ViaRhôna from Seyssel to Belley via Chanaz

recommended route Difficulty easy Stage 5

36.4 km

2:15 h

97 m

111 m

This stage of ViaRhôna follows both banks of the Rhône. The temporary cycling route, between ridges and plateaus, plays with landscapes punctuated by waterfalls and lakes. Further on, the vineyards, gastronomy, and small authentic towns such as Belley, Culoz, or Chanaz shape the mountain of Bugey. Greenways and roads alternate on this sporty stage.

ViaRhôna - A cycling route alongside the river Rhône

Bike Riding · Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

ViaRhôna from Belley to Groslée via St-Genix-sur-Guiers

recommended route Difficulty moderate Stage 6

46.8 km

3:30 h

73 m

95 m

This stage of the ViaRhôna goes through the Bugey between the majestic Rhône, the Grand Colombier massif, and the Lavours marshes.

ViaRhôna - A cycling route alongside the river Rhône

Bike Riding · Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

ViaRhôna from Groslée to La Balme-les-Grottes

recommended route Difficulty easy Stage 7

52 km

3:30 h

113 m

112 m

This stage of the ViaRhôna route passes through preserved nature along the Rhône and in the lands of North Isère. Hidden in the middle of the mountains and forests of southern Bugey, there are magnificent ponds, lakes, or marshes. You will pass through the villages of Morestel, Saint-Sorlin-en-Bugey, and more intimate, La Balme-les-Grottes with its famous caves and its picturesque center. Beautiful greenway from La Vallée Bleue to Lagnieu.

ViaRhôna - A cycling route alongside the river Rhône

Hiking Trail · Ain

Voie douce du Lange

recommended route Difficulty easy Open

36.7 km

1:30 h

133 m

The "voie douce du Lange" links Oyonnax to Nantua. With an average width of 3m, it can be used on foot, by bike, scooter or rollerblades, and is highly suitable for people with reduced mobility.

Aintourisme

Bike Riding · Ain

Cycling circuit: Along the water, between Rhône and Guiers

recommended route Difficulty easy

25.3 km

2:00 h

21 m

This loop follows the banks of the Rhône and the Guiers. The history, wildlife, and flora of this unique area can be discovered by strolling along the water and cycling around the Haut Rhône nature reserve.

Bugey Sud Grand Colombier Tourisme

Hiking Trail · Ain

Walk - Tour of Lake Nantua

recommended route Difficulty easy Open

7 km

0:45 h

20 m

The Nantua lake route offers a secure itinerary, 80% of which is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a fan of leisurely rides, enjoy a walk in the exceptional natural setting of Lake Nantua.

Aintourisme

Jurassic Bike Routes Circuit No. 43 - A ride between Hauteville and the Champdor pond

Bike Riding · Ain

Jurassic Vélo Tours route no. 43 - A ride between Hauteville and the Champdor pond

recommended route Difficulty easy Open

19.8 km

2:00 h

246 m

The Albarine and the stone on a plateau!Family route discovering the villages with a picnic break, swimming or fishing at the Champdor pond.

Aintourisme

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Family cycling in Ain

Whether you're looking for a gentle way to get back in the saddle, a safe ride for the whole family or some time for contemplation, this is the place for easy cycling.

From natural lakes to refreshing waterfalls, along the meanders of the wild Rhône, between forests and marshes, water will be the main theme of your cycling trip here!

Picturesque villages, vineyards and gastronomy, nature reserves and "Espaces Naturels Sensibles" (sensitive natural areas), so many sights and heritage sites to discover and share, for a day in the fresh air or a longer stay.