The best cycling routes around Lac Des Mousseaux
4.3
(44)
203
riders
41
rides
Touring cycling routes around Lac Des Mousseaux are set within a 198-hectare reservoir in France, approximately 25 miles (40 km) north-west of Tours. The region features a picturesque natural setting with diverse wildlife, including nearly 250 bird species, and is recognized as a Natura 2000 wetland. The terrain is characterized by gentle sloping shores and mostly paved surfaces, offering minimal elevation gain suitable for various fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Lac Des Mousseaux
- The most popular touring cycling…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.8
(4)
24
riders
15.9km
01:01
70m
70m
Cycle the easy 9.9-mile (15.9 km) Around Lac des Mousseaux loop, a touring bicycle route with minimal elevation gain and picturesque lakesid
4.6
(5)
22
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.1
(7)
17
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
15
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
21.9km
01:21
100m
100m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
The Château de Gizeux dates back to the Middle Ages and was remodeled over the centuries, particularly during the Renaissance and the 18th century. Located in the commune of Gizeux, within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, on the borders of the former province of Anjou, it is one of the Loire Valley châteaux. Its façades stretch over 250 meters, making it the longest château in the Angevin region of Touraine.
0
0
Very beautiful castle in Touraine
0
0
Home to two of the most beautiful galleries in France, the Château de Gizeux is a true treasure of the Loire Valley with its rich history and thanks to all the activities and events that bring it to life today. The oldest parts of the castle recall the family of the poet Joachim du Bellay, owner of Gizeux for 350 years. During these more than three centuries, the Du Bellays made numerous modifications to the building, changing it from medieval austerity to Renaissance charm. Among the numerous rooms of the castle, two of them are particularly remarkable: the François I gallery and the gallery of the King's castles. The first, produced at the end of the reign of Henri IV, was imagined by Italian artists at the request of Marie d'Yvetot, wife of Martin du Bellay. She therefore had the so-called “Francois I” gallery decorated with numerous remarkably preserved paintings and mythological scenes. The gallery of the King's castles, the true pride of the Château de Gizeux, was created around 1680. No less than 400m² of murals honor the royal castles of Chambord, Vincennes, Fontainebleau and Versailles. . These prestigious historical monuments are complemented by charming rural and bucolic scenes, emblematic of rural life of the time. A visit to the Château de Gizeux also allows you to immerse yourself in the heart of the 18th century with the discovery of the main building and the small lounges that make it up. Marquetry furniture and Louis XV armchairs decorate these elegant rooms, the furniture of which is classified as a Historic Monument. The kitchen to be discovered during the visit was functional until the 1970s, thus constituting a precious testimony to castle life in the 20th century. A wood stove is still present there, as is a large series of coppers including a turbotière, a jam basin and various dishes and pans. More recent history also draws visitors to the cellars, since they served as a hiding place for resistance fighters during the Second World War, even though the Germans occupied the castle. There is also the castle's first central heating installed in the 19th century, a guarantee of modernity for the time. In addition to the 15th century chapel and the incredible 18th century stables, the owners of the Château de Gizeux, Géraud and Stéphanie de Laffon, also offer to stay in this idyllic setting while enjoying the guest rooms furnished in the charm of the old and with modern comfort. They also bring this precious heritage to life on a daily basis through multiple fun and attractive activities for young and old: free or guided tours, costumed or narrated, by day or by candlelight. The numerous workshops offered to children (gardening, storytelling and snacks, bread oven, coat of arms) today bring all the life that has always defined this incredible Gizeux castle.
0
0
Lake Mousseaux (198 ha), property of the Entente Interdépartementale de l'Authion (Maine-et-Loire, Indre-et-Loire), has a rather wild character (it is also classified as a site of European interest for birds) with its gently sloping banks lined with abundant flora. Here is a small wooden hut which serves as a viewing platform. Most of the time you can see birds that live in swampy areas. Binoculars are recommended.
0
0
Castle dating from the Middle Ages and remodeled over the centuries, notably during the Renaissance. The castle is today a tourist attraction with a hotel offer as well as activities, such as an oenological discovery or a relaxation area.
0
0
beautiful discovery on this tour you arrive through the woods and pass in front of the castle
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when cycling around Lac Des Mousseaux?
The area around Lac Des Mousseaux is characterized by gentle sloping shores and mostly paved surfaces, offering minimal elevation gain. This makes it suitable for various fitness levels and provides a pleasant touring experience. Some longer routes might include unpaved segments, but generally, the paths are well-suited for touring bikes.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Lac Des Mousseaux area?
There are over 40 touring cycling routes available around Lac Des Mousseaux. These routes cater to different skill levels, with 24 easy routes, 16 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes around Lac Des Mousseaux?
Yes, many routes around Lac Des Mousseaux are suitable for families due to their easy difficulty and minimal elevation gain. An excellent option is the Wild or Tamed Nature Trail, an easy 15.9 km loop offering scenic lakeside views that can be completed in just over an hour.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Lac Des Mousseaux?
The best times to visit Lac Des Mousseaux for cycling are typically spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer can also be pleasant, but it's advisable to cycle during cooler parts of the day. The region's preserved natural environment and diverse wildlife are enjoyable across these seasons.
What kind of natural features and wildlife can I see while cycling around Lac Des Mousseaux?
Lac Des Mousseaux is a Natura 2000 wetland, recognized for its 'wild' and preserved environment. Cyclists can observe abundant fauna, with nearly 250 bird species regularly sighted, making it a significant migratory stop. The routes offer views of gentle sloping shores and diverse flora, providing a tranquil natural experience.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, some routes extend beyond the immediate lakeside to include historical landmarks. For instance, the Gizeux Castle – Lake Rillé loop from Digue de Pincemaille takes you past the impressive Gizeux Castle, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural interest.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Lac Des Mousseaux?
The touring cycling routes in Lac Des Mousseaux are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the preserved natural environment, scenic lakeside paths, and the variety of options suitable for different ability levels.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Lac Des Mousseaux?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Lac Des Mousseaux are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Lake Rillé – Passage in the middle of the lake loop from Rillé-Plage, an easy 13.1 km path that offers continuous lakeside views.
Is it possible to find parking near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, parking is generally available in the vicinity of Lac Des Mousseaux, particularly near popular starting points like Rillé-Plage or Digue de Pincemaille. These areas often serve as convenient access points for cyclists looking to explore the lake and its surroundings.
Are there options for longer touring cycling routes that venture further into the region?
Absolutely. While many routes focus on the lake, some extend further into the surrounding countryside. The Lake Rillé – Passage in the middle of the lake loop from Digue de Pincemaille, for example, is an easy 22.7 km route that provides a more extensive exploration of the area while maintaining gentle gradients.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the cycling routes?
The communes surrounding Lac Des Mousseaux, such as Rillé, offer options for cafes, pubs, and accommodation. These facilities provide convenient stops for refreshments or overnight stays, allowing you to extend your cycling adventure in the region.
What is the longest easy touring cycling route available?
Among the easy routes, the Gizeux Castle – Château de Gizeux loop from Rillé-Plage is a notable option, covering 21.8 km. This route offers an enjoyable ride with minimal difficulty while allowing you to experience more of the local scenery and even pass by Gizeux Castle.
Most popular routes around Lac Des Mousseaux
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
