In Chaudes-Aigues, the steam escaping from the fountains sets the tone in the morning. Helmet on, we glide between the stone houses, then the road opens onto the Aubrac. The landscape breathes wide: low basalt walls, meadows hemmed in with spring flowers, silhouettes of burons on the horizon, cowbells in the background. Renting a bike here means choosing gentle freedom, the kind that leaves you time to smell the air, hear the water, stop at the bend in the path.

For a warm-up ride, follow the Remontalou valley and its thermal heritage, between cool lanes and small bridges. Looking for panoramic views? Climb to the Aubrac plateau on small, undulating roads: the effort is steady, the reward immense, with views as far as the Monts du Cantal. Gravel and mountain bike enthusiasts can follow the farm tracks to the valleys of the Truyère and the beech groves, at their own pace.