GTJ à vélo Self-Guided: Stages, Accommodations & Map 2026
GTJ à vélo (Grande Traversée du Jura à vélo) runs through France as a 377 km Jura crossing. As a mountain-bike route/trail, it takes you from the lowlands up into higher Jura terrain.
GTJ à vélo (Grande Traversée du Jura à vélo) takes you through the Jura in France and is classed as a mountain-bike route/trail. Based on the available info, it’s 377 km long. You’re not just riding “from town to town” here — you’re doing a proper traversée with a clear line and a real spread of elevation: from about 241 m up to around 1.198 m. That’s what makes it exciting, but also demanding — this isn’t a classic riverside cycle path. If you’ve done longer tours before and you’re comfortable with changing terrain, GTJ à vélo will suit you. For beginners, families, or kids, it only makes sense in heavily adapted sections — the elevation range alone is a big ask. Planning your trip independently? Use GTJ à vélo as a solid route concept, then build your own day stages to match your fitness and time budget. That way the tour stays manageable without losing what makes it what it is.
Route Profile
| Distance | 379 km |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Best Season | Spring, Summer, Autumn |
| Signage | unknown |
| Suitable For | Experienced cyclists, Athletes, Recreational cyclists |
| Surface | Mixed |
GTJ à vélo Map
BikeTouri Tip: View the complete route on a map in BikeTouri – with all accommodations and supply points. Also available offline.
The Most Beautiful Section on the GTJ à vélo
The biggest “oh wow” moment isn’t one single place — it’s the height change across the whole route. You move from about 241 m to around 1.198 m, and you really feel how the Jura changes as you climb. Highlight: around the 1.198 m high point is where GTJ à vélo makes it clear it’s more traversée than easy-going leisure riding — save that section for a properly sporty day.
Highlights on the GTJ à vélo
- Grande Traversée du Jura à vélo as a continuous Jura crossing in France (377 km).
- Elevation range of the route: from approx. 241 m to approx. 1.198 m.
- GTJ à vélo is officially classified as a mountain-bike route/trail.
- The route is listed as a “sentier de grande randonnée” (GTJ à vélo).
Accommodations on the GTJ à vélo
Along the GTJ à vélo you'll find numerous accommodation options – from hotels and guesthouses to campsites and small tent meadows.
Campsites & Tent Options
Along the GTJ à vélo there are numerous places to camp – from large campsites to small tent meadows on farms. Campsites usually don't need to be booked in advance.
Hotels & Guesthouses
Numerous accommodations along the route – from hostels and guesthouses to hotels. Important for cycle tourists: secure bike storage and no minimum stay requirements.
BikeTouri Tip: BikeTouri shows you all accommodations along the route – with prices, amenities, and reviews from cycle tourists. Also available offline.
Planning Your GTJ à vélo Trip
What should you book in advance?
During peak season (June-August), it's recommended to book accommodations in popular stops 1-2 days ahead. Outside peak season, spontaneous booking is usually possible.
What can you decide spontaneously?
Daily distances, rest stops, restaurant visits, and detours to attractions can all be decided on the day based on weather and how you're feeling.
Typical daily costs
Practical Information
Getting There & Away
The route is well connected by train at both start and end points. Most regional trains accept bicycles, though reservations may be required during peak season.
Shopping Along the Way
Supermarkets and grocery stores can be found in most towns along the route. Plan for longer stretches in rural areas where shops may be limited.
Bike Shops & Repairs
Bicycle repair shops are available in larger towns. Carry basic tools and a spare tube for emergencies between service points.
More Information
Conclusion
GTJ à vélo gives you a clear Jura crossing over 377 km, with a noticeable elevation spread up to around 1.198 m. The strength is that long, consistent traversée feel over many kilometres; it’s much less suited to a no-planning “just roll out” trip for beginners unless you adapt it. If you’re planning it yourself, it’s a strong template — you just need to tailor it honestly to your fitness.
Why BikeTouri?
We don't just show the big campsites – but also small tent meadows, farms, and cyclist-friendly guesthouses. With prices, reviews from cycle tourists, and offline maps.