Outdoor Cycling Series Livradois-Forez

Immerse yourself in the unspoiled beauty of the Livradois-Forez Regional Nature Park, nestled at the eastern edge of Auvergne and spanning parts of the Puy-de-Dôme, Haute-Loire, and Loire departments. This lesser-known gem offers a unique opportunity to explore its rugged terrain by bicycle, allowing you to venture off the beaten path and discover hidden gems that are often overlooked from afar but reveal their true splendor upon closer inspection.
The event features two challenging routes: a 350 km course with an elevation gain of 7,000 meters over three days, and a more manageable yet still demanding 150 km route boasting a climb of 3,000 meters. Both courses wind through the heart of Livradois-Forez, taking cyclists on a journey that combines winding mountain roads with gravel tracks deep in dense forests.
Cyclists will encounter steep climbs and descents along small roads and single-track trails, providing an exhilarating mix of technical challenges and breathtaking scenery. The terrain is varied and demanding, featuring both rolling hills and true alpine passes that offer stunning views and a sense of isolation rarely found elsewhere.
For the route option, participants are advised to use road bikes with tubeless tires recommended at 25 mm or wider for optimal performance on challenging stretches. Gravel cyclists should opt for wider tires ranging from 40mm up to 46mm in tubeless configuration, ensuring grip and comfort over long distances. VTTs (mountain bikes) are also permitted.
The event strictly prohibits the use of electric-assist bicycles due to battery limitations and weight concerns. Cyclists must ensure their gear is suited for steep inclines and significant elevation changes throughout both routes.
With a maximum capacity of 100 participants, this intimate setting guarantees an immersive experience where every detail has been meticulously planned by organizers who have carefully mapped out each centimeter of the route on-site to provide cyclists with an unparalleled adventure.
Scheduled departures are set for October 24th and 25th, 2026, from Ambert (Puy-de-Dôme), offering participants a chance to explore this unique landscape at their own pace over two or three days.
Registration fees vary depending on the date of sign-up but start as low as €65 for the shorter route and €105 for the longer one until December 31st, 2025. Additional costs apply after these dates with prices increasing to up to €85 and €125 respectively by February 15th.
In addition to detailed maps and GPS files sent out before departure, participants will receive a briefing session prior to the start date and have access to live tracking services for safety and support throughout their journey. Upon completion of either route, finishers are greeted with hearty meals, refreshments, and souvenirs commemorating this extraordinary adventure.
Join us in Livradois-Forez to uncover its natural wonders and warm-hearted hospitality as you pedal through one of France’s most captivating yet underexplored regions.