OT Partner

Balade à vélo : la cascade de Glandieu et les cités de Caractère

à Montalieu-Vercieu

Cycling challenge (76km): link the Vallée Bleue to the spectacular Glandieu Waterfall (60m high)! Cross the largest river forest reserve in France and discover Morestel, the city of painters. A sporting and nature-filled route.

Embark on a great 76km cycling adventure (difficult level) starting from the Vallée Bleue, crossing spectacular landscapes shaped by the Rhône and history.

A rich and varied itinerary:

From Quirieu to the Upper Rhône: Begin with a stop in the medieval town of Quirieu for its unique panoramic views. Then continue towards the French Upper Rhône Nature Reserve. Over 25 km, explore the largest river forest reserve in France, a labyrinth of "lônes" (former river channels) created by glacial melt.

The spectacle of the Glandieu Waterfall: Upon arriving in Glandieu, prepare to be amazed by the power of this waterfall, over 60 meters high. Easily accessible, you can admire it directly from the road or from the comfort of a café terrace.

Note: To preserve the beauty of the site, swimming and picnicking are prohibited.

An artistic stop in Morestel: The return journey takes you through the renowned City of Painters. Take time to stroll through the narrow streets of Morestel, dominated by its 11th-century keep. This remnant of the fortified castle now hosts contemporary art exhibitions.

Returning via the ViaRhôna: Complete your loop by enjoying the smooth flow of the famous greenway along the Rhône.

Did you know? The outward journey follows dirt roads and the old tram line, offering an authentic driving experience before returning to the tarmac of the ViaRhôna for a smoother return.

Further information :

Departure and return from the Vallée Bleue leisure centre.
Depending on your schedule and the weather, plan to bring: picnic/snack, sunglasses, water bottle, and sunscreen.
The bikes are equipped with a lock, a repair kit and a roadbook. Wearing a helmet is strongly recommended and compulsory for children under 12 years old.

Topo / step by step

This loop heads towards the medieval town of Quirieu.
A first stop can be made to discover the sleeping city and the panoramic view which dominates the Balcons du Dauphiné.

Continue your route to the French Haut-Rhône Nature Reserve which constitutes the largest river forest reserve in France.

Arrival at the Glandieu waterfall. Easy to access, you can admire it from the side of the road, or from the terrace of the Bistrot de la cascade located just opposite. Warning: swimming and picnicking prohibited!

Return via Morestel, the city of painters. Overlooking the roofs of the old town, the 11th century keep, a vestige of the old fortified castle, now houses a contemporary art gallery.

We speak: English, French

Location accuracy

  • In the countryside
  • Lake or body of water within 300 m
  • At the water's edge
  • River or river view

Activities

Customer base

Reserved for experts/confirmed

Types

  • Materials provided
  • All-in

Sports activities

  • Cycling sports
  • Moutain Bike
  • Electrically assisted bicycle
  • Electrically assisted mountain bikes

Services

Services

  • Booking required

Home animals

Pets are not accepted

Opening

From 07/02 to 31/03/2026, Monday to Friday.
Mandatory reservation.
Please check our opening days and times on our website: https://espace-bike.com/location-reparation-velo/fourche-moteur-bosch-frein/.

From 01/04 to 31/10/2026 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, public holidays and weekends.
Reservation strongly recommended.
Please check our opening days and times on our website: https://espace-bike.com/location-reparation-velo/fourche-moteur-bosch-frein/.

From 01/11 to 15/11/2026 on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, public holidays and weekends.
Mandatory reservation.
Please check our opening days and times on our website: https://espace-bike.com/location-reparation-velo/fourche-moteur-bosch-frein/.

Subject to favorable weather conditions. On demand.

Prices

PricesMin.Max.
Adult

9 €93 €
Child

7 €90 €
Further information :

Possible rental of muscular or electrically assisted bicycles, from 1 hour to 2 days (or more on quote and reservation only).

Payment method

  • Bank / credit card
  • Classic Holiday Vouchers
  • Cash
  • Online payment

Booking

  • Booking required

Reservation recommended. It is recommended to call the service provider before traveling to ensure opening hours.

Récré Activ'

Bike Area – Rental

Recess Active

Bike Area – Contact

06 71 70 11 12

contact@espace-bike.com

Linked offers

On the spot…

From 9 € / adult

Address

Espace Bike
Base de Loisirs de la Vallée Bleue
Rive gauche
38390 Montalieu-Vercieu

My route via Google Maps
  • Website
  • Website
  • Facebook

Did you find this page useful?