The best road cycling routes around Choisy-Au-Bac
4.4
(141)
3,410
riders
450
rides
Road cycling routes around Choisy-Au-Bac offer a diverse landscape for exploration. The region is characterized by the extensive Compiègne and Laigue forests, providing numerous well-paved roads and varied terrain. Cyclists can also find routes along the Oise and Aisne rivers, which offer flatter paths with scenic views. The area includes several hills, such as Mont Ganelon and the Beaux Monts, adding elevation challenges for riders.
Best road cycling routes around Choisy-Au-Bac
- The most popular road cycling route is View of Pierrefonds Castle – What a castle! loop from Longueil-Annel, a 72.4 miles (116.5 km) trail that takes 5 hours 1 minute to complete. This difficult route offers significant elevation gain and leads to the historic Château de Pierrefonds.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Compiègne forest loop from Longueil-Annel, an easy 14.4 miles (23.2 km) path. This route provides a gentle ride through the expansive Compiègne Forest, ideal for a relaxed outing.
- Local road cyclists also love the View of the Castle – Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique loop from Longueil-Annel, a 55.8 miles (89.8 km) trail leading through varied terrain, often completed in about 3 hours 44 minutes.
- Road cycling around Choisy-Au-Bac is defined by dense forest roads, riverside paths, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging climbs.
- The routes in Choisy-Au-Bac are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 140 reviews. More than 3,600 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Choisy-Au-Bac's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 26, 2026
28
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
24
riders
116km
05:02
920m
920m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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22
riders
89.8km
03:44
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
17
riders
79.6km
03:22
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
15
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Picturesque village with its old manors. A small village nestled in the heart of the forest where it is pleasant to live.
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The castle has not been under renovation for a long time. A pleasure for the eyes.
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charming village with a beautiful church and a very reputable old inn!
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The sight of military cemeteries is always very sad, but we must not forget history.
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The square itself houses a statue of Joan of Arc, a tribute to the city's historical connection to this iconic figure. The Town Hall, with its rich history and stunning architecture, continues to captivate visitors, offering a glimpse into the past while remaining a vibrant part of Compiègne's present.
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The architecture of the town hall is a true feast for the eyes. The central structure is dominated by a tall bell tower, flanked by two turrets connected by a decorative railing. This imposing façade, 47 meters high and 24 meters wide, is decorated with striking Gothic elements such as pinnacles and basket arches. The large niche now houses a high relief depicting the equestrian statue of Louis XII. It is an original creation from 1869 by the sculptor Henri-Alfred Jacquemart in the realistic style so prevalent at the time. However, contrary to the usual appearance of equestrian statues during the reign of Louis XII, Henri-Alfred Jacquemart chose not to build a horse walking "à l'amble," that is, with both straight legs raised simultaneously. On October 12, 1530, a clock was placed on the summit of the bell tower. From that time on, every quarter of an hour, she animated three wooden jaquemarts with bell hammers. The Compiègneis quickly gave them three nicknames corresponding to the enemies of the time: Langlois for the English, Flandrin for the Flemish, and Lansquenet for the Germans. Even today, they chant the life of the city by "punching the time," that is, by striking their hammer to strike the hours.
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The National Military Cemetery of Vic-sur-Aisne, created in 1921, is an impressive necropolis containing the remains of 3,046 French soldiers, mainly killed during the Battles of the Aisne in World War I. Of these, 932 are buried in two ossuaries, and seven others died during World War II. Among the thousands of French soldiers is Ma Yi Pao, a young Chinese legionnaire who died of wounds on September 2, 1918, at the age of 24. He was one of the few Chinese to actually serve as a soldier in the French Foreign Legion, while most of his compatriots were employed as laborers. His grave (plot F, grave 59) is unique: he is the only officially recognized Chinese soldier to have died for France in this war.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Choisy-Au-Bac?
There are over 400 road cycling routes around Choisy-Au-Bac, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. This includes 51 easy routes, 378 moderate routes, and 12 difficult routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Choisy-Au-Bac?
The terrain around Choisy-Au-Bac is quite varied. You'll find extensive well-paved roads through the Compiègne and Laigue forests, offering a mix of gentle paths and more challenging sections with elevation gains. Additionally, flat, scenic routes run along the Oise and Aisne rivers, while hills like Mont Ganelon and the Beaux Monts provide opportunities for climbs.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in the area?
Yes, Choisy-Au-Bac offers several family-friendly road cycling options, particularly within the Compiègne Forest. These routes often feature largely car-free paths, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. An example of an easy route is the Compiègne forest loop from Longueil-Annel, which is 23.2 km long with minimal elevation.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the region includes hills like Mont Ganelon and the Beaux Monts, offering varied topography and elevation gains. A difficult route with significant climbing is the View of Pierrefonds Castle – What a castle! loop from Longueil-Annel, which covers 116.5 km and features over 900 meters of elevation gain.
What historical landmarks or attractions can I visit while road cycling?
Many routes combine cycling with cultural and historical discoveries. You can cycle to the magnificent Château de Compiègne, explore the fairytale-like Château de Pierrefonds, or visit the historically significant Armistice Clearing (Clairière de l’Armistice). The Saint-Jean-aux-Bois Abbey and Fortified Gate is another notable stop.
Are there scenic viewpoints along the road cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers beautiful scenic viewpoints. The Beaux Monts Viewpoint, in particular, provides an exceptional perspective over the vast Compiègne Forest, making it a rewarding stop on your ride.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Choisy-Au-Bac?
The road cycling routes in Choisy-Au-Bac are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained forest roads, and the variety of routes suitable for different fitness levels.
Can I find circular road cycling routes around Choisy-Au-Bac?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Choisy-Au-Bac are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the View of the Castle – Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique loop from Longueil-Annel, a moderate 89.8 km route.
Are there routes that pass by multiple castles or historical sites?
Absolutely. You can plan routes that connect several historical sites. For instance, the Château de Compiègne – Raray Castle loop from Longueil-Annel is a moderate 78.3 km route that takes you past multiple impressive landmarks.
What is the best time of year for road biking in Choisy-Au-Bac?
The region is enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also popular, especially for rides through the shaded forests. While winter cycling is possible, conditions may vary, so it's best to check local weather forecasts.
Are there any routes that follow river paths?
Yes, the presence of the Oise and Aisne rivers provides excellent opportunities for flat, scenic rides. Cycling paths along the Oise River are part of larger routes like EuroVelo 3, connecting various charming villages and offering picturesque views of the waterways.
Most popular routes around Choisy-Au-Bac
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