The best cycling routes around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs
4.4
(214)
1,268
riders
186
rides
Touring cycling routes around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs traverse the varied landscapes of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, characterized by rolling hills and dense forests. The region features significant elevation changes, offering challenging climbs and scenic descents. Routes often lead through natural areas, providing a blend of forest paths and open countryside.
Best touring cycling routes around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs
- The most popular touring cycling route is Col de Guitte Longue – Lake Crescent loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, a 24.3 miles (39.1 km) trail that…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.5
(2)
20
riders
39.7km
03:43
960m
960m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(2)
12
riders
38.0km
02:30
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
14.4km
01:03
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
7
riders
25.6km
01:51
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
36.8km
03:22
860m
860m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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 pleasant stop near the Crescent, with a slight detour from the GR Telephone 07 49 26 22 70
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Very worthwhile visit to this beautiful church
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The second part of the village's name comes from the large number of empty stone tombs placed in the cemetery surrounding the church. The church is the central location of the village, next to the mayor and not far from a mini-market and a few shops.
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A picturesque place on the way. Sculptures of farmers and their cow in front of a pretty flower bed. A great place to take a photo, and the owners won't mind.
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A true jewel of Burgundian Gothic art, the church of Saint Père sous Vézelay deserves a moment of attention. Built from the 13th to the 15th century and dedicated to the Virgin, it only became a parish church in the 16th century, succeeding the old Saint Pierre church which gave its name to the village and whose ruins can still be seen at the exit. south of the village. The 13th century bell tower, elegant and airy, 50m high, is visible for miles around. In the middle of the 19th century, the building was in a very advanced state of disrepair. However, Prosper Mérimée describes it as "a gothic cathedral in miniature". Viollet-le-Duc, then 26 years old, fell in love with the church of Saint Père, the restoration of which he launched in 1841. He worked until 1844 on the choir, the chapels and the nave. and in 1868, ends with the bell tower. However, due to a lack of resources, he practically does not intervene on the porch (or narthex). This part, which is the most striking because it evokes real stone lacework, was then restored by Boeswilwald between 1888 and 1889.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
There are over 170 touring cycling routes in the Saint-Germain-Des-Champs area, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling in this region?
The region offers diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills and dense forests of the Morvan Regional Natural Park to scenic river paths along the Seine. You'll find a mix of forest trails and open countryside, with routes often featuring significant elevation changes.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes?
Yes, there are 11 easy touring cycling routes around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs that are suitable for families or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes typically feature less challenging terrain and shorter distances.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the presence of beautiful lakes, and the immersive experience of cycling through rolling hills and forests.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Many routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Lake Crescent – Lac du Crescent loop from Saint-Germain-des-Champs is a popular circular route that takes you around the picturesque Lake Crescent.
What historical or natural landmarks can I explore along the cycling routes?
You can discover several interesting landmarks. Along the routes, you might encounter the impressive Crescent Dam. The broader region also features historical sites like the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye and the Château de Monte-Cristo, as well as the expansive Forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye.
Are there any routes that offer views of lakes or rivers?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by the presence of lakes and the Seine River. Routes like the Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure offer beautiful views of Lake Crescent. Additionally, the Seine River banks provide over 52 kilometers of dedicated routes with breathtaking water views.
What are the difficulty levels of the touring cycling routes?
The routes around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs cater to various skill levels. There are 11 easy routes, 74 moderate routes, and 94 difficult routes. The difficult routes often feature substantial elevation gain and challenging climbs through varied terrain.
Can I find routes that start directly from Saint-Germain-Des-Champs?
Yes, many routes are accessible from or start directly in Saint-Germain-Des-Champs. For instance, the Lake Crescent – Lac du Crescent loop begins in Saint-Germain-des-Champs, offering a convenient starting point for your cycling adventure.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in this area?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park, where Saint-Germain-Des-Champs is located, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons offer milder temperatures and vibrant natural scenery, making for an enjoyable touring experience.
Are there any longer, more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced riders will find plenty of challenging options. Routes like the Col de Guitte Longue – Lake Crescent loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, at 24.3 miles (39.1 km) with significant elevation gain, provide a demanding ride through varied terrain.
Are there any routes that pass through charming towns or villages?
While cycling along the Seine, you can discover charming towns and villages such as Marly-le-Roi, known for its historical connections. The region is dotted with such places, offering opportunities to explore local history and culture during your ride.
Most popular routes around Saint-Germain-Des-Champs
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