The best cycling routes around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay
4.5
(1250)
9,906
riders
16
rides
Touring cycling routes around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay navigate a landscape characterized by rolling hills, lush pastures, and extensive apple orchards. The region features moderate elevation changes, offering engaging rides without being overly strenuous. Proximity to the Caen Canal and the Orne River provides access to greenways and tranquil river paths. This area, nestled in the Calvados department of Normandy, combines scenic countryside with historical points of interest.
Best touring cycling routes around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay
- The most popular touring cycling route is Former mine…
Last updated: May 24, 2026
4.5
(31)
262
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
17
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
10
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
21
riders
34.6km
02:15
180m
180m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
9
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
On the greenway
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Discover Caen in the city center
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Caen, first mentioned in documents in 1027, experienced rapid urban development in the 11th century. It was called a burgus (bourg), was the centre of an extensive ducal domain, lay at the crossroads of important roads and had markets and a port. It first developed as an important city in the Duchy of Normandy under William the Conqueror. He had a strong fortress built in Caen and around 1059 an abbey for women (Abbaye aux dames) and one for men (Abbaye aux hommes), in which he was also buried. Later, during the Huguenot Wars (1562), his grave was destroyed and his bones were lost. William's gravestone can still be seen in the church today. He had the monasteries built to atone for his marriage to his cousin Mathilde, which was disapproved of by the Pope. Both monasteries are among the most important monuments in Normandy and are today – by the monks and nuns during the French Revolution
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The former Benedictine abbey with the monastery church of Saint-Étienne was founded by William the Conqueror in Caen, built from 1060 onwards, but probably not completed until after 1090. From 1120/25 onwards, six-part cross-ribbed vaults were installed in the originally flat-roofed building, which are among the oldest in France.
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Nice views with special pedestrian zones and refreshment options
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Once Caen is behind you, you will find the Vélo Francette cycle route. Here it takes the greenway of Suisse Normande through beautiful natural landscapes along the Orne.
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The port city of Caen is strongly marked by its history. In fact, it is organized around its castle, built in the 11th century by William the Conqueror. There are also several places of remembrance of the Second World War. In addition to the historical aspect, Caen is also a nature city, crossed by the Orne and surrounded by large green spaces. It is very pleasant to get around by bike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay?
The routes around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay feature a diverse landscape of rolling hills, lush pastures, and extensive apple orchards. You'll find moderate elevation changes that offer engaging rides without being overly strenuous. Many paths follow tranquil river paths along the Orne and greenways, providing a mix of scenic countryside and historical points of interest.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay area?
There are nearly 500 touring cycling routes available around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay. This includes over 200 easy routes, 150 moderate routes, and more than 120 difficult routes, catering to various skill levels and preferences.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes near Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay?
Yes, the region offers many family-friendly options. The broader Normandy region, accessible from Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay, includes routes that utilize old railway tracks, providing flat, safe, and enjoyable experiences for families. The greenways along the Caen Canal are also excellent for a relaxed ride.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling in the area?
While cycling, you can explore several significant landmarks. The area's industrial heritage is visible along routes like the Former mine at May-sur-Orne – Sainte-Anne Viaduct loop from Feuguerolles-Bully. Nearby Caen offers historical sites such as the Men's Abbey (Saint Stephen) and Caen Castle. You can also cycle along the Caen-to-the-Sea Canal at Blainville-sur-Orne, which leads towards the coast.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay?
The best time to go touring cycling in Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay is generally from spring through early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is mild, and the apple orchards are in bloom or laden with fruit, offering picturesque scenery. The region's moderate climate makes it enjoyable for cycling for several months.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Banks of the Orne River – Former mine at May-sur-Orne loop from Saint-Martin-de-May offers a moderate circular ride, allowing you to start and finish at the same point while exploring the riverbanks and industrial heritage.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the routes in Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay?
The touring cycling routes in Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1100 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the varied terrain, the peaceful river paths, and the charming Norman countryside with its apple orchards and traditional villages.
Can I find challenging touring cycling routes in this region?
Yes, for those seeking a more vigorous ride, there are challenging options. The area includes routes with greater elevation changes, particularly towards the Suisse Normande region south of Caen. An example is the Former mine at May-sur-Orne – Sainte-Anne Viaduct loop from Ifs, which is classified as difficult and covers over 40 km.
Are there opportunities to combine cycling with cultural or gastronomic experiences?
Absolutely. The Calvados Cider Route, easily accessible from Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay, offers a unique cultural and gastronomic experience. This route winds through the Pays d'Auge region, known for its apple orchards and half-timbered houses, linking nearly 20 producers of cider and Calvados, complete with tasting opportunities.
What are the options for public transport or parking near cycling routes?
Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay's proximity to Caen (approximately 8 km) means you can access the area via public transport to Caen and then cycle to the starting points. Many routes are also accessible by car, and parking is typically available in or near the villages and towns that serve as common starting points for these tours.
Are there any routes that offer coastal views or access to the sea?
Yes, some routes extend towards the coast. Parts of La Vélo Francette, which passes through the Calvados region, offer greenways along the Caen Canal that lead directly to the English Channel at Ouistreham. This allows for a diverse touring experience, combining tranquil countryside with refreshing coastal views and opportunities to visit D-Day landing beaches.
Is it possible to explore the area's traditional villages and architecture by bike?
Indeed. The region is dotted with charming villages featuring traditional Norman architecture. The Calvados Cider Route, for instance, guides cyclists through picturesque villages like Beuvron-en-Auge and Cambremer, which are renowned for their beauty and make for pleasant stops during your cycling tour.
Most popular routes around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay
Most popular attractions around Saint-Martin-De-Fontenay
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