The best road cycling routes around Les Essarts
4.2
(13)
172
riders
70
rides
Road cycling around Les Essarts, located in the Vendée countryside, offers routes characterized by gentle rolling hills and expansive meadows. The region's topography provides varied terrain suitable for different skill levels without being overly challenging. Features like the Forêt Domaniale de l'Hébergement and the Etang de la Rabretière contribute to a diverse landscape for outdoor activities. The broader Vendée bocage area is known for its cycling-friendly environment.
Best road cycling routes around Les Essarts
- The most popular road cycling route…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
5.0
(1)
5
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
2.0
(1)
8
riders
50.1km
02:18
200m
200m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
8
riders
25.7km
01:09
140m
140m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
37.1km
01:38
200m
200m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3
riders
52.9km
02:31
480m
480m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Lavardin is a very pretty little town, where medieval, Renaissance and troglodyte styles mix. The Saint-Genest church is particularly beautiful, with its colorful paintings. Concerts take place there in summer. Just opposite you will find a café-bakery, carved into the stone, which serves delicious ice cream. You won't be able to miss the remains of the castle and its 26 meter high tower. Note that it is possible to pitch your tent on the banks of the Loir, at the bottom of the village. The spot is very pleasant.
1
0
Composed of a central nave ending at the apse with a straight wall pierced by an ogival window, and accompanied by side aisles at the end of one of which rises the 58 meter bell tower. The four upper bays are from the 15th century. The church being too small at the end of the 15th century, it was extended by three bays representing approximately 14 m of floor space. The Renaissance facade offers a beautiful sculpted door from the 16th century depicting four scenes from the life of the Holy Virgin, attributed by Abbot Froger to the sculptor Guillaume Le Houx (holly garland, cornucopias and his initials M.G.L.H.).
0
0
The old village church was partly destroyed by fire in 1720; it was rebuilt in the 1780s but without decoration. All of the painted decorations were executed between 1863 and 1865: the scenes and figures by Dubois and the ornamental decoration by Goislard under the direction of Louis Bodin, Count of Galembert. This vast program was sponsored by the allied families of Vanssay and Galembert and the priest Toizard; the factory participated for 5448F. The church was consecrated by Monseigneur Fillion, bishop of Le Mans, on September 5, 1865. (inventory of the heritage of the Pays de la Loire region) A black marble plaque engraved with the names of 30 soldiers per year was inserted into the wall paintings of this church, under the Crucifixion.
0
0
Montoire Castle is a ruined castle. Construction began in the 11th century; there was further construction work in the 12th, 13th and 14th centuries.
0
0
Built by the lords of Montoire in the 10th century, the castle and its keep are today in ruins.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Les Essarts?
There are over 50 road cycling routes around Les Essarts, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 15 easy routes and 35 moderate routes to explore the region's gentle rolling hills and picturesque landscapes.
What is the typical terrain like for road cycling in Les Essarts?
The terrain around Les Essarts is characterized by gentle rolling hills and vast meadows, making it suitable for road cyclists of varying skill levels. These undulations provide varied terrain without being overly challenging, ensuring engaging rides through scenic landscapes.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, Les Essarts offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the Poncé-sur-le-Loir, La Chartre-sur-le-Loir et Couture-sur-Loir — loop by the V47 is an easy 24.5-mile trail with gentle elevation changes, perfect for a relaxed ride through the countryside.
What about more challenging routes for experienced cyclists?
For those seeking a moderate challenge, routes like the Ruillé-sur-Loir loop from Vallée-de-Ronsard offer a longer distance of 33.6 miles (54 km) and more significant elevation changes, navigating through the rolling hills and providing scenic views.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the area?
Many of the road cycling routes in Les Essarts are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Notre-Dame Church – Saint-Maurice Church loop from Lavenay and the Lavardin – Lavardin loop from Saint-Jacques-des-Guérets.
When is the best time of year for road cycling in Les Essarts?
The region's gentle climate generally makes spring and autumn ideal for road cycling, with pleasant temperatures and beautiful landscapes. The area is also known for cycling events like the 'LES ESSARTS TOUR DU BOCAGE' which typically takes place in March, indicating good conditions during that period.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I see while road cycling in Les Essarts?
Beyond the scenic countryside, you can encounter several interesting landmarks. The ruins of the ancient Château de Montoire and the picturesque Loir at La Chartre-sur-le-Loir are notable points of interest. The Troglodyte Village of Trôo also offers a unique cultural experience nearby.
Are there any scenic viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
Yes, the rolling hills and expansive meadows naturally offer many scenic vistas. Specifically, you can find a beautiful View of the Jasnières vineyards, providing a picturesque backdrop for your ride.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in Les Essarts?
The abundance of easy routes with gentle elevation changes makes Les Essarts a great destination for family-friendly road cycling. The serene countryside and well-maintained paths provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all ages.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Les Essarts?
While specific parking areas for each route vary, Les Essarts, being a rural area, generally offers accessible parking in town centers or near popular starting points for routes. The Parc Saint-Michel in the town center could be a convenient option for starting your ride.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
Yes, you'll find opportunities for refreshments. The town of Les Essarts itself has a weekly market every Wednesday, offering local cuisine. Many villages along the routes will also have small cafes or bakeries where you can stop for a break and refuel.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Les Essarts?
The road cycling experience in Les Essarts is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's gentle rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and the diverse backdrop of meadows and forests that make for enjoyable rides.
Is Les Essarts known for any specific cycling events?
Yes, Les Essarts has a connection to road cycling events. The region hosts the 'LES ESSARTS TOUR DU BOCAGE,' a recognized road cycling race, which highlights its reputation within the cycling community and its suitability for the sport. You can find more details about such events on cycling calendars, for example, on Ouest-France.
Most popular attractions around Les Essarts
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
