Cycling trip between Vercors and Chambaran with Julien Audigier
Julien Audigier
How about discovering the Saint-Marcellin Vercors Isère region in a whole new way? For four days, blogger Julien Audigier came to test some of our most beautiful cycling routes. Between the Isère Valley, the Chambaran hills, and the foothills of the Vercors mountains , he cycled to the rhythm of nature, history, and local cuisine. Here's a look back at this cycling getaway, rich in discoveries.
Classified among the most beautiful cycle routes in France, the Belle Via crosses our territory offering safe and peaceful paths. On the section linking Saint-Quentin-sur-Isère to Saint-Hilaire-du-Rosier , Julien cycled in a setting typical of the Isère valley: on one side, the majestic cliffs of the Vercors, on the other, the rounded hills of the Chambaran, and all around, walnut groves as far as the eye can see.
Easily accessible by train (Saint-Hilaire/Saint-Nazaire, Saint-Marcellin, Poliénas, and Tullins stations), the route allows you to easily join the cycle path and follow the river, passing through peaceful villages like Poliénas, Saint-Gervais, and Rovon . Near the port of Saint-Gervais, Julien turned off towards Cognin-les-Gorges , amidst walnut groves, before rejoining the Belle Via further on along very pleasant shared roads, particularly around La Sône and along the Bourne Canal.
An ideal outing for half a day or a full day, even with family, without any particular difficulty, which combines nature, rural heritage and exceptional panoramas.
The Tramway Route: a gravel gem at the heart of history
Lovers of gravel and natural sensations, this itinerary is for you! Tram track follows the old railway line that once connected the villages of Royans. Julien particularly liked:
· Departure from the charming village of Chevrières,
• The breathtaking view of Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye , listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France and voted the French people's favorite village in 2025 ,
· And of course, the single passage in the old tram tunnel.
A sporty loop (39,8 km – 688 m D+) but accessible, which combines heritage, agricultural landscapes and exceptional panoramas.
New cycle route no. 5: around Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye
Among the new cycling routes marked in 2025, this route is becoming a must for discovering the area. At around fifty kilometers, this hilly route alternates between quiet roads, farm tracks and small, accessible climbs, ideal for intermediate cyclists or those using e-bikes.
Several stops are possible to discover the local heritage, meet local producers or simply enjoy a gourmet break.
The highlight of the show? Arriving from the heights finally allows you to rediscover Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye and its abbey church from a new and spectacular angle.
Because a cycling holiday is also best enjoyed at the table, Julien tested several of our restaurants :
• La Taverne du Bélier Rouge in Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye, his favorite for its atmosphere and market cuisine 🔗 learn more
• L'Auberge du Midi in Dionay for its seasonal dishes 🔗 learn more
Bachop's Bar in Cognin-les-Gorges is perfect after a sporting activity. 🔗 Learn more
For accommodation, he settled into Le Cèdre Bleu in Saint-Lattier , a charming establishment with the Accueil Vélo (Cyclists Welcome) label , featuring a swimming pool and a gourmet table d'hôtes (set menu). A relaxing break amidst the walnut groves! 🔗 Learn more
cycling, heritage and gastronomy: the DNA of our region
At the end of his stay, Julien left captivated by the diversity of the routes : gentle cycle route, gravel loop, intermediate circuits… here, every cyclist finds what they're looking for, whether it's for a micro-adventure of a few hours or for a road trip of several days.
And above all, he rediscovered what constitutes the essence of our destination: · varied landscapes, between Vercors and Chambaran, · an exceptional heritage, with Saint-Antoine-l'Abbaye as its jewel, · generous gastronomy, where conviviality and good food are never far away.
Whether you prefer gravel biking, mountain biking, road cycling, or e-biking, our region welcomes you with its roads and trails. Like Julien, come cycle at the pace of Saint-Marcellin Vercors Isère , and let yourself be surprised by a destination where every turn reveals a new discovery.
