The best running trails around Auxerre

The Auxerre region offers a wide variety of running experiences, with over 770 routes available on komoot. These range from easy urban jogs to challenging vineyard trails, catering to all fitness levels.

You'll find diverse terrain for running in Auxerre. The city itself features tranquil paths along the Yonne River and Canal du Nivernais, as well as several well-maintained urban parks like Parc de l'Arbre Sec and Parc de l'Arboretum. Outside the city, the landscape transitions to hilly terrain, forests, and the renowned Chablis vineyards, offering more varied elevation and off-road experiences.

Yes, Auxerre has numerous easy running options. You can find over 50 routes classified as easy, often along the flat riverbanks or within the city's green parks. These provide a gentle introduction to running in the area.

For those seeking longer distances, Auxerre and its surroundings offer challenging routes, particularly in the vineyard areas. For example, the difficult route Chablis Village and Vineyards – Chablis Old Town loop from Maligny spans over 35 km, providing an extensive workout with significant elevation changes.

Runners in Auxerre can enjoy picturesque views along the Yonne River and the Canal du Nivernais. The region also boasts several parks, including the large Piedalloues natural urban park. For more expansive natural beauty, the Chablis vineyards offer panoramic views of the Serein Valley, and the Natural Reserve of the Loire Valley provides serene footpaths with peaceful ponds.

Absolutely! Many routes integrate historical sites. You can run past the picturesque Château du Fey on the Château du Fey and Yonne Riverbank Loop, or explore the historic Seven Locks of Henri IV on the The Seven Locks of Henri IV Trail. Within Auxerre, you might pass by the magnificent Saint-Étienne Cathedral or the Paul Bert Bridge.

Yes, many running routes around Auxerre are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Examples include the Lac du Bourdon — loop — running from Saint-Fargeau and the Moutiers Pond and Sarrazine Tower Loop, allowing you to explore without retracing your steps.

For families, the urban parks like Parc de l'Arbre Sec and the paths along the Yonne River and Canal du Nivernais offer flat, accessible surfaces suitable for all ages. The Coulée Verte, a green corridor on an old railway line, is also an excellent option for a safe and enjoyable family run.

While specific regulations can vary by park or natural area, many of the natural paths along the rivers and canals, as well as trails in the wider Auxerrois region, are generally dog-friendly. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

The running routes in Auxerre are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 130 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse scenery, from the peaceful riverbanks and urban green spaces to the challenging and rewarding vineyard trails. The combination of natural beauty and historical landmarks is frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Yes, the Auxerre region features several beautiful lakes and ponds that can be incorporated into your running routes. The Lac du Bourdon Beach and Moutiers Pond are notable spots, with routes like the Lac du Bourdon — loop — running from Saint-Fargeau offering scenic lakeside experiences.

Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times for running in Auxerre. The weather is mild, and the natural landscapes, from blooming parks to vibrant vineyards, are particularly beautiful. Summer can be pleasant, especially in the mornings or evenings, but midday runs might be hot. Winter offers a different charm, with crisp air and quieter trails, though some paths might be muddy.