Cantal

From 1 to 4 October 2026, explore the Cantal between majestic volcanoes, wild gravel trails and endless freedom.

417 Google reviews5/5
Duration:
4 days / 3 nights
Daily distance:
40 - 70 km
Difficulty:
3 / 5
Book now
Cantal_Header

What to expect on this trip

From 1 to 4 October 2026, discover the Cantal region on an all-inclusive gravel adventure, in a small group and accompanied by passionate gravel guides. Travel light and simply enjoy the ride, we take care of everything.

Spend four days in the heart of Europe’s largest volcano, following an exclusive gravel route designed to showcase the very best of the region. From legendary mountain passes and volcanic trails to wild valleys and charming villages, discover an authentic and unspoilt side of Auvergne.

We've carefully selected a charming accommodation ideally located for setting off each day to explore Cantal’s finest gravel playgrounds. As the kilometres unfold, be amazed by the diversity of volcanic landscapes, the richness of the local heritage, and the vast panoramas that make Auvergne so unique.

Whether you're a dedicated gravel rider, a lover of wide-open spaces, or simply looking for an unforgettable cycling adventure off the beaten track, this long gravel weekend is an invitation to slow down, explore, and immerse yourself in this remarkable region.

✨ Team favourite: reaching the ridgelines of the Cantal volcano at sunrise and enjoying a breathtaking 360° view over the mountains of Auvergne before sharing a generous traditional truffade dinner at the end of the day.

1–4 October 2026

From : 890

  • Cancellation possible up to 30 days before departure

  • Payment in 2 installments with no fees

  • Holiday vouchers and e-ANCV accepted!

👉 Not a member yet? Join the Club

A Glimpse of Adventure

The Cantal: one of France's best-kept secrets for gravel riding.

plateaux-volcaniques-cantal

An immersive journey through an authentic and unspoiled region.

gravel-cantal-ferme-montagne-auvergne

A hidden gem destination, perfect for a gravel biking adventure.

gravel-cantal-volcans-auvergne

Gravel riding at its finest: freedom, nature, and adventure.

gravel-cantal-plateau-auvergne

An immersive journey through an authentic and unspoiled region.

gravel-cantal-panorama-volcans

The shared moments that make every trip unforgettable.

gravel-cantal-piste-gravel-volcanique

A journey through centuries of history.

gravel-cantal-monts-du-cantal

Panoramic views that reward every pedal stroke.

vallees-du-cantal-auvergne

Climb higher to take in the vast landscapes of Auvergne's volcanoes.

gravel-cantal-route-montagne

Winding forest trails lead deep into the wild heart of the Cantal.

gravel-cantal-gravel-foret

Quiet roads and wild gravel tracks stretching as far as the eye can see.

gravel-cantal-champetre-petite route.jpg

Pause by hidden waterfalls and soak in the peaceful rhythm of nature.

gravel-cantal-cascade

Flowing and varied gravel trails designed for adventure seekers.

itineraire-gravel-cantal-montagne

In the heart of Cantal's volcanic landscapes.

panorama-volcans-cantal

Three days to slow down, explore, and reconnect with what matters most.

gravel-cantal-campagne-petite route

Join our community

Hear from those who’ve lived the experience – and come ride with us!

417 Google reviews5/5
A badge for the soul
Sharing meals, building memories
Riding together
Post-ride relaxation in nature
Lakeside smiles
Deux cyclistes gravel prêts à démarrer une aventure en petit groupe dans la forêt du Morvan
Climbing together
Smiling cyclist with Gravel Up badge
Photo article Séjour Mathias Dandois
Instagram joinUs

The Cantal is probably one of the most exciting discoveries we've made in recent years. It has everything that defines the GravelUp spirit: quiet backroads, varied gravel tracks, breathtaking landscapes, and a constant sense of adventure.

What struck me most during our scouting trips was the diversity of the terrain and the vastness of the landscapes. Within just a few kilometers, you can ride from lush green valleys to volcanic plateaus, then up to ridgelines offering spectacular views over the Cantal mountains. More often than not, you'll feel like you have the entire region to yourself, with the rare sensation of exploring a place that remains untouched by mass tourism.

JB - Co-founder GravelUp (July 2026)

Cantal_Avis JB

I really enjoyed this trip. It was relaxed, easygoing, and full of adventure. I could tell the routes were specially designed by GravelUp for an unforgettable experience close to nature. I'm already gearing up for my next adventure with GravelUp!

Asim. A

Avis client Norvège - Asim. A

A wonderful, caring team that ensures safety, provides top-quality bikes made in France, designs well-crafted routes through stunning landscapes, and manages the trip with incredible attention to detail. Perfect for both beginners and experienced gravel riders.

Sophie. G

Avis client Andalousie - Sophie. G

A wonderful experience in Switzerland at Gantrisch, with a fantastic team who listened to our needs and top-notch organisation.

Christophe. L

Avis Suisse - Christophe Lami

Second trip with GravelUp. After the Causses, here I am in the Alpilles. The welcome was in a lovely setting, and the cycling trip was varied and exciting, with a local guide who showed us hidden gems and secret trails in the region. Not to mention Orlane’s legendary “ravitos” - the perfect energy boost! Try it once and you’ll be hooked. Can’t wait for the next adventure (not planned yet)! All the best, Claude

Claude. D

Avis client Thibault. D - Alpilles

I’ve just finished five days bikepacking through the Norwegian fjords. What an amazing trip! A dynamic, caring team that adapts to everyone, high-quality gravel routes, and breathtaking scenery!!! And so many unforgettable laughs 😄 Can’t wait to come back for another trip!!! Thanks to the GravelUp team 🙏🏼

Eve. A

Avis client Norvège- Catherine. C

I was lucky enough to take part in a trip to Switzerland — an amazing experience! The organization was flawless from start to finish, the equipment provided was top-notch, and the lodge, charmingly rustic as we love them, added a real touch of authenticity. A perfectly balanced adventure of sports, nature, and camaraderie. I highly recommend it!

Vincent. R

Avis_Suisse_Adventurer_Vincent Royer (octobre. 2026)

Great setting with a team that takes care of everything. An exceptional guide with a lot of attention and care. Real Gravel on beautiful trails and stunning roads! Hotel, lodging and incredible restaurants were all perfect! A superb breath of fresh air.

Jacques R.

Customer review Jacque R. - Corsica

Two days of nature and fresh air in the Morvan with friends, in sporty mode but with all the comfort (Colin and Paul taking care of us in the great lodge and throughout the food stops). Morning sun salutations to kick off the second ride, chasing away clouds and sore muscles. Seb, our gravel guide, knows his playground by heart, revealing it bit by bit with topographical surprises along the way.

Fanny. D

Avis client Morvan - Fanny. D

Your adventure, day by day.

Stages, landscapes, highlights: discover the program that awaits you. This itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather or logistics, to ensure the best possible experience.

Cantal_Programme séjour

TRIP ITINERARY

Day 1 – Welcome to the Heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes

Day 2 – The Wild Cézallier Plateau ∼ 71 km / 1,300 m elevation gain

Day 3 – The Limon Plateau ∼ 59 km / 1,100 m elevation gain

Day 4 – The Pinatelle Forest ∼ 37 km / 550 m elevation gain

Cantal_camp de base

DAY 1 – WELCOME TO THE HEART OF AUVERGNE'S VOLCANIC LANDSCAPES

We’ll meet from 6:00 PM at our base camp in the heart of the Cantal for a first evening together. It’s the perfect opportunity to get to know the group, discover the itinerary for the days ahead, prepare the bikes, and share a first dinner together.

For the 3 nights of the trip, you’ll stay in a carefully renovated traditional Auvergne mountain farmhouse, where the authenticity of stone and wood blends with warm, modern comfort. A characterful retreat in the heart of the Cantal, perfect for unwinding after each day on the bike.

gravel-cantal-piste-gravel-volcanique

DAY 2 – THE WILD CÉZALLIER PLATEAU71 km / 1,300 m Elevation Gain

For the first day of gravel riding in the Cantal, we set off to explore the Cézallier Plateau, a vast volcanic landscaperenowned for its untouched beauty and often compared to the wide-open spaces of Iceland and Scotland.

Following scenic gravel roads and quiet country lanes, we ride through rolling valleys, picturesque villages, and breathtaking volcanic panoramas, deep in the unspoiled wilderness of the Massif Central.

After enjoying a picnic surrounded by nature, we continue our gravel adventure across this remarkable region before arriving at our accommodation. The day ends with a delicious dinner featuring traditional Auvergne cuisine, offering the perfect way to experience the authentic flavors of the Cantal.

grands-espaces-cantal-gravel

DAY 3 – THE LIMON PLATEAU59 km / 1,100 m Elevation Gain

Today, we head to the Limon Plateau, a vast highland region nestled between the Cézallier Plateau and the Cantal Mountains, in the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes.

Riding a mix of scenic gravel roads and quiet panoramic country lanes, we cross unspoiled landscapes of meadows, peat bogs, and wide-open plateaus, with breathtaking views of the surrounding volcanic peaks.

Back at our accommodation, enjoy some well-deserved time to relax before gathering for a friendly dinner featuring the finest local specialties from the Cantal, the perfect way to end another unforgettable day of gravel cycling.

gravel-cantal-cascade

DAY 4 – THE PINATELLE FOREST37 km / 550 m Elevation Gain

To round off this unforgettable gravel tour in the Cantal, we set out to explore the Pinatelle Forest, a true gravel cycling paradise in the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes.

Riding along scenic forest tracks, past volcanic lakes, and through authentic rural villages, this final stage immerses us in the unspoiled landscapes of the Massif Central, surrounded by peaceful wilderness and spectacular volcanic scenery.

After one last adventure across the wide-open spaces of the Cantal, we gather for a friendly farewell lunch before bringing this memorable gravel adventure to a close.

GravelUp benefits

This is included

  • 3 nights in a carefully selected guesthouse, shared twin-room accommodation (2 guests per room)
  • A professional and local guide
  • Return transfer from Berne train station
  • All food for the stay
  • A mechanic who will share his secrets with you
  • A great welcome pack
  • Unique tracks designed by the GravelUp
  • Assistance and transportation van
  • Visits to various historical and cultural sites
  • An evening of celebration
  • A community of enthusiasts

This is not included

  • Transportation from your home
  • Travel insurance for repatriation and civil liability
  • Personal drinks and other souvenir purchases
  • Anything not specified in "What's Included"
  • Bike rental (extra charge)

Options

    Bikes

    No gravel bike? No problem! You can rent one of our premium Gravel or E-Gravel bikes for an optimal experience on all terrains (+€70/day). Just select this option when booking. Learn more.

Any questions?

Practicalities

Level

Booking

Practicalities

Booking

Safety

Equipment

Booking

Discover these other trips

Brittany

4 days / 3 nights – New in 2026

Discover
Photo header sourire Bretagne
Basque country

4 days / 3 nights – New in 2026

Discover
Photo header sourire - Pays Basques
Andalusia

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
vélo Andalousie
Provence

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
Alpilles_header_sourire
Grands Causses

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
Header Fiche produit - Grands Causses
Pyrenees

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
Photo header sourire - Pyrénées
Ventoux

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
Ventoux gravel
Vosges

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
Vosges - Adventurer 18
Corsica

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
ADVENTURER CORSE
Côte d'Azur

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
Nice_header_sourire
Norway

4 days / 3 nights

Discover
1 Norvège - Adventurer - départ d-Oslo
Swiss Alps

4 days / 3 nights – New in 2026

Discover
Photo header sourire - Suisse
grands-espaces-cantal-gravel

GRAVELUP: OUR GRAVEL CYCLING TOUR IN THE CANTAL

Join us for a gravel cycling adventure in the Cantal, in the heart of the Auvergne volcanoes, and discover one of the finest gravel riding destinations in France. Between spectacular panoramas, iconic mountain passes, volcanic tracks, authentic villages and unspoilt nature, experience a unique gravel journey combining sport, discovery and immersion in the landscapes of Auvergne.

This all-inclusive gravel trip includes charming accommodation, delicious local cuisine, an assistance van, expert local guides and transfers. An exclusive gravel experience designed to explore Europe's largest volcano and ride carefully selected routes far from busy roads.

👉 Download our catalogue HERE to know all our offers