Grand Tour of Loire Valley

A road cycling route starting from Firminy

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in Firminy Plan your own route in Firminy

Embark on an epic road cycling adventure through the iconic Loire Valley, starting near Firminy.

Map

Map miniature of "Grand Tour of Loire Valley" cycling inspiration in Rhône-Alpes, France. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner

This round-trip road cycling route starting near Firminy takes you on a grand tour of the world-renowned Loire Valley. Covering a distance of 127 kilometers with a challenging ascent of 2,056 meters, this route is for experienced cyclists seeking a truly memorable journey. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the region as you pass through Aurec-sur-Loire's charming streets, conquer challenging climbs like Pic de Bard, and enjoy the tranquility of Lac De Grangent. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Firminy, a city known for its iconic modernist structures designed by Le Corbusier. This route promises a truly unforgettable cycling experience.

road

127 km

2056 m

Savage

Route profile

Highlights on the route

0 km

Start: Firminy City center

Firminy: Firminy: Exploring Le Corbusier's Architecture on Two Wheels

Firminy is a picturesque town located in the Rhône-Alpes region of France, known for its Modernist architecture and connection to architect Le Corbusier. From a cyclist's perspective, Firminy offers a mix of rolling hills and flat terrain. There are several well-known climbs nearby, such as Col de la République and Col du Grand Bois, which are popular among road cyclists. The town itself has cycling-friendly infrastructure and is home to various cycling events. Overall, Firminy provides scenic rides with a mix of challenging climbs and smoother road sections.

2 km

FraissesVillage

Fraisses is home to La Mine Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating history of mining in the region and explore the underground galleries.

9 km

Aurec-sur-LoireVillage

Aurec-sur-Loire offers stunning views of the Loire River from its medieval castle ruins and a charming historic center worth exploring.

33 km

Merle-LeignecVillage

Merle-Leignec, nestled in the Massif Central, boasts ancient towers and beautiful scenery, making it a hidden gem for cyclists.

57 km

Saint-AnthèmeVillage

Discover the scenic beauty of Saint-Anthème as you cycle through its rolling hills and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

77 km

LérigneuxVillage

Lérigneux invites cyclists to explore its tranquil landscapes, rolling farmlands, and picturesque hamlets, offering a true rural escape.

80 km

Pic de Bard834 mPeak

Conquer the challenging ascent to Pic de Bard and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Loire Valley and beyond.

103 km

BonsonVillage

Bonson is a charming village with medieval architecture, scenic bridges, and inviting riverbanks, perfect for a pit stop.

115 km

Lac De grangentViewpoint

Lac De Grangent is a stunning reservoir surrounded by lush forests, offering opportunities for water activities and lakeside picnics.

127 km

FirminyTown

Complete your journey in Firminy, where you can explore the iconic modernist architecture of Le Corbusier, including the remarkable Saint-Pierre Church.