The best cycling routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame
4.3
(395)
3,351
riders
214
rides
Touring cycling around Esquay-Notre-Dame offers routes through a landscape characterized by gentle hills, river valleys, and agricultural fields. The region features a mix of open countryside and smaller wooded areas, providing varied scenery for cyclists. Routes often follow quiet country roads and paths, connecting villages and historical points of interest. The terrain is generally rolling, with some moderate ascents and descents.
Best touring cycling routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame
- The most popular touring cycling route is Living water – Sainte-Anne Viaduct loop…
Last updated: November 2, 2026
4.6
(9)
101
riders
33.5km
02:02
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
17
riders
35.8km
02:57
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
16
riders
44.3km
03:23
500m
500m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
11
riders
38.8km
03:11
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
11
riders
53.6km
04:20
700m
690m
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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peaceful path in the hollow of the hill
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Picnic tables are located on the greenway towards Thury, ideal for a short break.
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Built between the 13th and 16th centuries, it plays with the transition of styles: radiant and flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance. It has a magnificent 14th century bell tower, almost 80 m high, which is currently being restored. Particularly worth seeing are the vault of the choir, the chapels of the ambulatory in late Gothic style and the carved capitals of the third pillar of the nave on the north side, which depict four scenes from chivalric romances and satirical writings of the Middle Ages. J.F. Dupont organ, built in 1997.
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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 bridge over the Orne River is located in the heart of Normandy Switzerland. The D171 regional road connects the towns of Brieux and Goupillières.
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St Anne's Church
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Esquay-Notre-Dame?
There are over 240 touring cycling routes to explore around Esquay-Notre-Dame. This extensive network offers a variety of options for different skill levels and preferences, allowing you to discover the region's gentle hills, river valleys, and agricultural fields.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in this region?
The touring cycling routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame offer a mix of challenges. You'll find approximately 80 easy routes, 70 moderate routes, and over 90 difficult routes. This variety ensures there's something for everyone, from leisurely rides through the countryside to more demanding ascents and descents.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. One such option is the Small tour loop from La Cavée, which is an 8.5 km (5.3 miles) route with minimal elevation gain, offering a pleasant introduction to the region's scenery.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Esquay-Notre-Dame?
The terrain around Esquay-Notre-Dame is characterized by rolling hills, gentle ascents, and descents, interspersed with river valleys and agricultural fields. Routes often follow quiet country roads and paths, providing varied scenery through open countryside and smaller wooded areas.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the challenging Chemin du lavoir loop from Avenay is a 44.3 km (27.5 miles) circular path that explores local pathways and rural landscapes.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks I can see along the routes?
The region offers several scenic spots and historical landmarks. You can enjoy viaduct views on routes like the Sainte-Anne Viaduct – Saint Anne Chapel loop from Évrecy. The Sainte-Anne Viaduct itself is a notable landmark. Other nearby attractions include the historic Men's Abbey (Saint Stephen) in Caen and the Former mine at May-sur-Orne.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame?
The touring cycling routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 350 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the quiet country roads, and the charming rural landscapes that connect villages and historical points of interest.
Are there any routes that feature river views or water elements?
Yes, several routes incorporate river valleys and water features. The Pont-de-Brie over the River Orne – Living water loop from Avenay is a challenging 34.9 km (21.7 miles) route that takes you along the River Orne, offering picturesque views of the waterway and surrounding nature.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Esquay-Notre-Dame?
The region is generally pleasant for touring cycling from spring through early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the countryside is vibrant. Spring brings blooming fields, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any particularly challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Experienced touring cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes with significant elevation changes. The Living water – Sainte-Anne Viaduct loop from Avenay is a difficult 35.7 km (22.2 miles) route featuring nearly 500 meters (1,640 feet) of elevation gain, offering a demanding ride with rewarding views.
Is it possible to access touring cycling routes using public transport?
While many routes start from villages like Avenay or Évrecy, which may have limited public transport connections, it's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional train services if you plan to rely on public transport. Parking is generally available in these starting points for those arriving by car.
Most popular routes around Esquay-Notre-Dame
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