The Tour du Briançon # 7 (by mountain-bike)

Description

This circuit goes on grassy tracks and paths over the barren landscapes of the Can de Ferrières and Can de Balazuègnes plateaux, and offers panoramic views onto the Bougès massif and the Mimente valley. From the Col du Rey, head towards Ferrières. Before arriving in the hamlet, take the track on the left leading to the Can de Balazuègnes and the hamlet of the same name. Go through the hamlet and downhill to St-Julien-d'Arpaon. Turn right onto the N 106 for about 1 km, then fork right to start the climb to the Col de l'Oumenet. The track is steep at first, but then becomes smoother. At the pass, take the D 20 towards Barre des Cévennes. Turn left towards La Cure. Skirt La Cure on the left, then pass in front of Le Bouquet, Le Bramadou and Les Bastides. Cross the D 20 and, on the other side, go up a short but steep ascent (400 m). You return to the Col du Rey by skirting Balmegouse farm on the right.

Difficulty

Official rating: difficult, by Parc national des Cévennes.

Before you go

• No cycling off-track. You are strongly advised to wear a helmet. Do not forget your repair kit and a small set of tools. Shut all gates and barriers after yourself. Slow down in farms and hamlets.

Getting there

Start: Col du Rey, Cans et Cévennes (48).

Sources

• Track: Parc national des Cévennes, Licence Ouverte 1.0, Licence Ouverte 1.0 (Etalab) (destination.cevennes-parcnational.fr/trek/38835-Le-tour-du-Briancon---VTT-n7). Time estimated by GPX Path with the Mac app rule, breaks not included.
• Official elevation gain: 771 m, Parc national des Cévennes