Cycling route: the Pays Gex mini-cycle race
La Petite Cyclo du Pays de Gex offers a challenging loop between the Jura Mountains and the Valserine Valley, combining long climbs, exhilarating descents and a chance to immerse yourself in the unspoilt landscapes of the Haut-Jura.
These road bike itineraries are for guidance only, and are aimed exclusively at experienced cyclists.
Important information before you set off:
▶These routes are not marked on the ground and require the use of a GPS or navigation app.
▶The routes use roads open to motorized traffic. Compliance with the Highway Code is mandatory.
▶These routes are recommended for experienced cyclists in good physical condition who have mastered the art of road biking.
▶We advise you to check weather conditions before setting off and adapt your outing accordingly.
Start / Finish: Lélex
Km 0 — Start
Take the northern access road, then join the D991.
Km 0 to 8.5 — D991 (8.2 km)
A gradual climb towards the Jura Mountains. A good warm-up.
Km 8.5 to 13.6 — D936
Fast-paced section with a gentle climb.
Km 13.6 to 19.1 — Route du Manon (D292)
Steady climb towards the higher ground.
Km 19.1 to 23.4 — Molunes sector (D292E1)
A series of small roads, undulating terrain.
Km 23.4 to 31.3 — Towards Les Moussières then La Pesse (D25)
A more pronounced mountainous section. Challenging terrain.
Km 31.3 to 44.5 — Route de la Combe d’Evuaz (11 km)
⚠️ Long, wild descent towards the Valserine valley. Technical in places.
Km 44.5 to 53.5 — Towards Champfromier (D48)
Winding road at the bottom of the valley. Fast-flowing section.
Km 53.5 to 60.0 — D14a
Transition with a slight uphill gradient.
Km 60.0 to 69.1 — Climb towards Chézery (D991)
⚠️ Gradual but sustained climb. Pacing is crucial.
Km 69.1 to 81.0 — Return via the D991
Long, fast-paced section with slight inclines all the way back to the starting point.
Km 81.0 — Finish 🏁
Itinerary details
Alert
A road shared with motorists.
Description
This route is shorter than the major Jura tours, but it is nonetheless intense and varied, alternating between long climbs, high-altitude plateaus and technical descents.
Starting in the Pays de Gex, the route climbs gradually along the D991 towards the Monts Jura, offering a steady ascent that allows you to find your rhythm. It then moves into the wilder areas of the Haut-Jura, passing through Les Molunes and Les Moussières, in a typical mountain landscape of forests and open valleys.
The route then continues towards La Pesse, before embarking on the spectacular descent into the Valserine valley via the Combe d’Evuaz road. This secluded and immersive section is one of the highlights of the route.
After the descent, the route follows the valley towards Chézery-Forens, before beginning the return to the Pays de Gex via a gradual climb. The final stretch alternates between rolling sections and gentle climbs, until you return to the starting point.
A short but intense route, ideal for a challenging ride in a stunning natural setting.
This route is provided for guidance only and is intended exclusively for experienced cyclists.
▶▶Important information before you set off:
This route is not signposted and requires a GPS. It follows roads open to traffic, which are sometimes narrow and winding in mountainous areas. A good level of fitness and confidence in cycling downhill are essential. Check the weather conditions, particularly at higher altitudes.