The best MTB trails around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs
4.4
(91)
795
riders
66
rides
Mountain bike trails around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs are situated within the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan, characterized by its rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous lakes. The terrain offers a mix of natural singletrack and wider dirt tracks, providing varied surfaces for mountain biking. This region in France is known for its natural features, including several lakes like Lake Crescent and Lac de Saint-Agnan, which are often incorporated into longer routes. The landscape includes significant elevation changes, making it suitable for riders…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.6
(16)
143
riders
72.5km
06:21
1,290m
1,290m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.5
(4)
37
riders
38.9km
03:08
580m
580m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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4.5
(4)
40
riders
43.7km
04:23
1,050m
1,050m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.7
(3)
33
riders
47.3km
03:59
830m
830m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.3
(3)
16
riders
38.2km
03:31
820m
820m
Hard mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
Crescent Lake owes its name to its crescent shape. It is popular with local fishermen and also with swimmers who can visit its beach to cool off. Camping is also permitted. This lake, with its exceptionally bucolic setting, was chosen as the location in 2015 by Michel Gondry for filming his movie Microbe and Gazoil.
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This totem is the official starting point of the GTMC. If you want to embark on this beautiful "end-to-end" crossing, as they say (official start and finish points), it is important to start from here. The signs provide official information on the distances and stages of the route.
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There is no possibility of touring the lake by mountain bike along the banks, but rather by taking the road. However, check that the road that passes over the dam is open (temporarily closed until June 25, 2025 for us!).
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A market hall with delicacies
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Muddy ground in rainy weather, otherwise a great course to do
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As in probably every other profession, there are a few so-called “black sheep” among the many honorable millers in the milling trade. The popular children's book author Otfried Preußler tells the following short episode in “The Flight into Egypt”: “And they didn't even get all the way to Klostergrätz that evening, but there was a mill on their way, the monastery mill - they stayed there until the next morning. At first the monastery miller was almost shocked when the k.k. Gendarmerie knocks on his door: There had been a certain dispute with a customer last week about a few sacks of milling material which had disappeared in the mill here in a completely inexplicable way […] but it could have been that he had been reported for it anyway – and now they’re coming to pick him up… then of course all the disputed milling sacks had immediately fallen from his mind, the monastery miller, just as [sergeant] Hawlitschek was now simply asking him for a place to stay for the night.”
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A ford which can be quite wide depending on the season. No footbridge, but logs can be used to get across.
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As written on the sign... sometimes it overflows!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
The trails in this region, part of the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan, feature a diverse mix of natural singletrack and wider dirt tracks. You'll encounter rolling hills, dense forests, and significant elevation changes, providing varied surfaces for mountain biking.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
Yes, while many routes feature challenging climbs and descents, there are approximately 5 easy mountain bike trails available. These typically offer less demanding terrain and elevation, making them suitable for those new to the sport or looking for a more relaxed ride.
How many mountain bike trails are there in total around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
There are over 60 mountain bike trails documented around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What are the typical distances and durations for mountain bike routes in this area?
Routes vary significantly. For example, a challenging ride like the Lake Crescent – Quarré-les-Tombes loop from Saint-Germain-des-Champs covers about 69.6 km and can take over 6 hours. Shorter, easier routes will naturally be less demanding in both distance and time.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes available?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails in the area are circular loops. For instance, the Avallon – Lake Crescent loop from Saint-Germain-des-Champs is a popular circular option, offering a demanding ride through varied woodland and open areas.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the mountain bike trails?
The region is known for its natural beauty, including several lakes like Lake Crescent and Lac de Saint-Agnan, which are often incorporated into routes. You might also pass by cultural landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père or the historic town of Avallon.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
The mountain bike trails around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders often praise the extensive forest trails, rolling hills, and the diverse terrain that caters to various ability levels.
Are there any particularly challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
Absolutely. The region offers 19 difficult trails with significant elevation changes. An example is the Nice dirt track – Lake Crescent loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, which features over 1000 meters of ascent over 43.8 km, providing a demanding experience for advanced riders.
Can I find mountain bike routes that include views of Lake Crescent?
Many routes in the area feature views of Lake Crescent. The Lake Crescent – Quarré-les-Tombes loop from Saint-Germain-des-Champs is a prime example, offering extensive forest sections and direct views of the lake.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
The Morvan region, where Saint-Germain-Des-Champs is located, is generally pleasant for mountain biking from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm but is also popular. Winter riding is possible but conditions can be more challenging due to potential mud or snow.
Are there any trails that pass by Lac de Saint-Agnan?
Yes, you can find routes that incorporate Lac de Saint-Agnan. The Lac de Saint-Agnan – Quarré-les-Tombes loop from Quarré-les-Tombes is one such option, offering a challenging ride around this scenic lake.
What kind of elevation gain can I expect on mountain bike trails here?
The trails often feature significant elevation changes. Difficult routes can have over 1000 meters of ascent, such as the Lake Crescent – Quarré-les-Tombes loop from Les Guetes, which includes over 800 meters of climbing over its 38.1 km distance.
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