Cyclo les Copains, an absolute experience!

itinerant hiking by bike

Auvergne by bike: from the Hautes-Chaumes to the banks of the Dore, from the Monts du Livradois to the hillsides of Billom, from La Chaise-Dieu to Thiers… The ever-changing landscapes of the Livradois-Forez region offer a variety of routes for cycling enthusiasts. While its steep passes offer a degree of resistance for even the strongest calves, the valleys and labyrinth of small roads are also ideal for family outings. The Livradois-Forez is indeed a “land of cycling”.

Auvergne by bike : varied terrain for steep roads

Ask Brivadois rider Romain BARDET about the possibilities for cycling in Livradois-Forez, and he’ll tell you that ” the landscape is peaceful “. And that ” the roads are steep without being difficult “. Finally, he’ll tell you that the Livradois-Forez ” is a real land of cycling “.

Indeed, the roads of the Livradois are a godsend for those who like to stroll by bike. Between hills and valleys, woods and rivers, the landscapes reveal themselves, opening up here and there to panoramas of infinite greenery.

These are sensations that can be experienced in every corner of the region. Because the roads in Livradois-Forez form an extensive network that makes it easy to multiply tours, they never become monotonous. Livradois-Forez offers cyclists a wide range of possibilities. From family rides on the Limagne plain to the steep climbs of the Forézian passes.

Tours for sporty cyclists

It’s from the Livradois-Forez passes that you can admire the infinite variations of the landscape. The most famous is the Béal pass, which rises to 1,400m. It’s a tough climb, but well worth the effort. After all, you’re pedaling on a route that has become the stuff of legend. It was on this asphalt that Chris Froome and Alberto Contador battled it out on a stage of the Critérium du Dauphiné. And there’s no greater promise for a cycling enthusiast than to ride in the wake of great champions, and then measure yourself against the terrain they’ve conquered!

Les Hautes-Chaumes

This tour offers an opportunity to discover the Livradois-Forez region, with its vast high plateaux, where nature is still often untamed.

4 H
69 km
Difficult level

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Castles and villages in the land of Queen Margot

This tour, between the Livradois and the Val d’Allier, takes you on a journey around the castles.

4h12
61 km
Difficult level

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Intermediate bike tours

The Livradois-Forez region’s hospitality and tourism professionals welcome you all year round to make your cycling holiday a successful one. They guarantee you a choice of itineraries, among the most beautiful in the Massif Central. So, whether you’re planning a hike, or simply a family outing, don’t hesitate to call on them.

Discovering know-how

3H25
66 km
Medium level

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Livradois castles

3H55
78 km
Medium level

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Castles and villages in the land of Queen Margot

3H08
62 km
Medium level

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La Via AllierDiscover Livradois-Forez by bike

The Via Allier, a section of the V70 cycle route, offers a unique experience along the 455 km long Allier river. It stretches from Nevers, near the confluence with the Loire, to Langogne in Lozère, close to its source. Eventually, the route will extend all the way to the Mediterranean.

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The "Cyclo des Copains": the Livradois-Forez cycling event

In conclusion, Cyclo Club Les Copains in Ambert has been organizing a major cycling event every year for over thirty years. Thanks to a formidable team of volunteers, the association sets up day-long, two-day and three-day routes, with some great climbs in between. All in all, it’s a real treat for the eyes… and the legs.