The best cycling routes around Commelle-Vernay
4.3
(276)
2,601
riders
273
rides
Touring cycling around Commelle-Vernay features routes that navigate the varied landscape of the Loire department. The region is characterized by the presence of the Loire River and its gorges, as well as several lakes like Lake Villerest. Terrain includes riverside paths along canals, rolling hills with moderate elevation gains, and routes connecting historical sites such as castles.
Best touring cycling routes around Commelle-Vernay
- The most popular touring cycling route is Castles of la Roche and Saint Maurice - Loop in…
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.6
(11)
38
riders
50.5km
03:25
800m
800m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
18
riders
29.8km
01:50
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(12)
53
riders
70.7km
04:32
640m
640m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
71
riders
44.1km
02:57
660m
660m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
54
riders
28.3km
01:52
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The 17th-century Château de la Roche, with its tower and keep, is the landmark of the Loire Gorge. Its atypical location in the heart of the Loire River makes it an exceptional sight.
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Very friendly and accessible to all
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In this abbey, the eco-hamlet of Bénisson-Dieu meets to sing vespers at least once a week. A little extra: they sing in a unique medieval Gregorian chant! Not to be missed!
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The church of Saint-Maurice, whose origins date back to the 18th century, was the chapel of the castle, hence the name of the castle chapel. Inside the church, on the right-hand side, in a bay window, there is a wall fresco of Saint James with pilgrim's cloak and staff, which was discovered during restoration work in 1999.
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Beautiful Abbey and lovely grounds to stroll around while your legs recover from you strenuous ride 🤓
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The port of Bully is a pretty marina on the banks of the Loire. In this nautical base you can have a drink, rent a kayak or a pedal boat. The setting is unparalleled!
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Bully is a locality appreciated for its rural and peaceful setting. It is also renowned for its vineyards, which are part of the Coteaux du Lyonnais appellation, producing red and white wines. The town also has a rich architectural heritage, including the Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul church and several old houses typical of the region.
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Great canal, we walked along its entire length during a Paris Lyon and it's great! For more advice, don’t hesitate to follow us on all networks @chouchou_team
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Commelle-Vernay?
There are over 270 touring cycling routes in the Commelle-Vernay area, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Commelle-Vernay offers a good selection of easier routes. You can find over 40 easy touring cycling routes. A good option for a moderate, family-friendly ride is the R8 – one dam to the next, which is about 30 km long and features views of local dams.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Commelle-Vernay?
The terrain around Commelle-Vernay is diverse, featuring riverside paths along the Loire River and canals, as well as rolling hills with moderate elevation gains. You'll also find routes connecting historical sites and offering views of lakes like Lake Villerest.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Many routes in Commelle-Vernay are designed as loops. For instance, the challenging Canal de Roanne à Digoin – Briennon marina loop from Le Coteau is a popular circular route that follows canal paths and passes through a marina.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions I can see along the cycling routes?
The region is rich in scenic spots and historical landmarks. Along your rides, you might encounter the impressive La Roche Castle, the historic Keep of Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire, or enjoy the tranquil beauty of the Canal de Roanne à Digoin. Many routes also offer views of Lake Villerest.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, Commelle-Vernay offers over 120 difficult touring cycling routes. A challenging option is the Castles of la Roche and Saint Maurice - Loop in the Loire Gorges, which covers over 50 km and includes significant elevation changes.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Commelle-Vernay?
The best seasons for touring cycling in Commelle-Vernay are typically spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can also be pleasant, especially for routes along the river or lakes, but be prepared for warmer temperatures.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Commelle-Vernay?
The touring cycling routes in Commelle-Vernay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 270 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the combination of natural beauty with historical sites, and the well-maintained paths.
Are there routes that pass by Lake Villerest?
Yes, Lake Villerest is a prominent feature in the region. The Villerest Leisure Centre – Lake Villerest loop from Villerest is a moderate route that specifically explores the area around the lake, offering scenic views.
Can I find routes that include historical castles?
Absolutely. The region is known for its historical castles. The Castles of la Roche and Saint Maurice - Loop in the Loire Gorges is an excellent example, taking you past significant historical sites like La Roche Castle and the Keep of Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire.
Are there any routes that offer views of dams?
Yes, the R8 – one dam to the next route is specifically designed to showcase the local dams and the surrounding natural areas, making it a great option for those interested in these structures.
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