Minimum altitude: 218 meters
Distance: 24.6 km
Slope Aspect: Various
Vertical Climbed: 65 meters (213 feet)
Vertical Descended: 65 meters
Rating: 1
An easy evening gravel ride in the Grésivaudan valley, between Crolles and the Bois Français. The route follows the shaded right bank of the Isère from Brignoud bridge, although it could easily be started from several other points along the valley.
From Brignoud, follow the right bank of the Isère towards Bois Grammont. At Bois Grammont, cross over the motorway, as the towpath has now been surfaced as far as the Bois Français. Instead of staying on it, take the Chemin de la Petite Chantourne and continue via Bois Claret to Saint Nazaire les Eymes, where there is a useful café and bakery, La Mie du Pan, as well as a Carrefour City.
From Saint Nazaire, cross back over the motorway near the riding stables and follow the trail towards the Bois Français, passing the five horseshoe shaped lakes. It should also be possible to take the trails via Étang Pacific to keep the ride almost entirely on gravel.
The return is straightforward, following the right bank of the Isère back to Brignoud.
This was a short gravel ride to see whether it was possible to stay almost entirely off road, while avoiding any real climbing. It was more of a recovery ride than a training session. The route passes several lakes and is often in the shade, making it a very pleasant option on a warm day.
The towpath between Lancey and Brignoud has recently been improved and now rides like a nice stretch of *strade bianche*, with the potholes filled in and the surface much smoother than before.
20C, wind from North, not too hot.
