The best road cycling routes around Château-Chinon (Campagne)

There are over 200 road cycling routes around Château-Chinon (Campagne) within the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from moderate loops to challenging climbs.

The Morvan region, including Château-Chinon (Campagne), is beautiful for road cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn provides stunning foliage. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially on longer climbs.

Yes, while the region is known for its challenging terrain, there are 4 easy routes and 129 moderate routes available. These routes allow beginners to enjoy the scenic landscapes without overly strenuous climbs. Look for shorter loops that stick to flatter sections around the lakes.

For challenging climbs, the Morvan region offers plenty, with 75 difficult routes. The Haut-Folin Pass, at 873 meters, is the highest point and provides significant ascents. Routes like the Morvan Lakes and Summits Loop or the Cyclomontagnarde du Morvan Southern Loop feature substantial elevation gains.

Many routes offer splendid panoramic views of the Morvan hills. The Château-Chinon Town Center itself offers views, and the Panorama du Calvaire provides an exceptional vista over the Morvan. Cycling around lakes like Lac de Pannecière and Lac des Settons also provides stunning waterside scenery.

Yes, you can find natural attractions like the Dragne Waterfall and the Smiling Tree. The region also features several ponds, such as Pinsot Pond and Rangère Pond, which can be incorporated into your rides.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore the Château-Chinon Town Center, often called the 'capital of the Morvan'. The town features the Stravinsky Fountain, commissioned by François Mitterrand, and a remembrance area dedicated to him.

Loop routes are a prominent feature of road cycling in the region. Examples include the Château-Chinon and Lake Pannecière Loop, a moderate 37.5 km ride, and the more challenging Settons Lake – Settons Lake Dam loop from Château-Chinon (Campagne).

While many road cycling routes involve hills, shorter, signposted loops are available, varying from 15.5 km. For a unique family-friendly experience, consider the Vélorail du Bazois-Morvan, where you can pedal along old railway lines on a velorail for 14 km or 24 km round trips.

Château-Chinon (Campagne) itself serves as an excellent starting point, with a 21km cycle route beginning in the area. Other popular starting points include the vicinities of major lakes like Lac de Pannecière or Lac des Settons, which are central to many routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the deep silence of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, and the mix of challenging climbs and scenic waterside views around the lakes.

Routes vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter loops like the Château-Chinon and Lake Pannecière Loop, which is 37.5 km and takes about 1 hour 55 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Morvan Lakes and Summits Loop, can be up to 130 km and take over 6 hours to complete.