The best gravel rides around Ancey

Ancey offers nearly 30 gravel bike trails, providing a wide range of options for riders. The majority of these routes are rated as difficult, with a few moderate options available.

While most routes around Ancey are rated moderate to difficult due to significant elevation changes, there are some options that might be more suitable for beginners. For instance, the Guillaume Gate – Rente de Chamerey loop from Corcelles-les-Monts is a moderate route that covers 44.8 km with 444 meters of elevation gain, offering a less strenuous experience compared to the more challenging trails.

Gravel biking around Ancey features diverse terrain, including forested hills, open countryside, and paths alongside the Canal de Bourgogne. You'll encounter rolling hills and some steeper ascents, providing varied challenges and scenic views. Many routes also pass through natural parks and near historical sites.

Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Ancey are designed as loops. For example, the popular Naizou Fountain – Parc de la Combe à la Serpent loop from Velars is a 48.7 km circular trail, and the Clos de Vougeot Castle – Chemin du Tacot loop from Corcelles-les-Monts offers a 47.9 km circular ride through vineyards and forests.

The gravel bike trails around Ancey generally range from 44 km to 50 km in length. Most routes take between 3.5 to 4.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and the specific elevation profile of the trail. For example, the Naizou Fountain – Canal de Bourgogne loop from En Pandaillas is 49.3 km and typically takes around 3 hours 30 minutes.

The gravel biking routes in Ancey are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, combining challenging climbs with beautiful natural landscapes and cultural points of interest like canal-side paths and vineyard routes.

Absolutely! Many routes offer stunning views and pass by natural attractions. You might encounter highlights such as the Panorama of the Baulme‑la‑Roche Rocks, La Roche Virante, or the Gouffre du creux Percé. The Naizou Fountain – Parc de la Combe à la Serpent loop from Velars, for instance, features significant elevation gain through a scenic park.

Yes, the region around Ancey is rich in history and features several castles. Some routes may pass near or offer views of historical landmarks. Notable castles in the area include Mâlain Castle, Barbirey Castle and Gardens, and Lantenay Castle. The Clos de Vougeot Castle – Chemin du Tacot loop from Corcelles-les-Monts specifically leads through vineyard landscapes and forested sections, offering a glimpse of the region's heritage.

Given the varied terrain including forested areas and open countryside, spring and autumn are generally ideal for gravel biking in Ancey. The temperatures are milder, and the natural landscapes are particularly beautiful, whether with spring blossoms or autumn foliage. Summer can also be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer weather, especially on exposed sections.

While specific crowd levels can vary, exploring routes that venture deeper into the forested areas or less-trafficked sections of the Canal de Bourgogne might offer a more tranquil experience. Consider routes that are not explicitly highlighted as 'most popular' to find quieter paths. Komoot's route planner can help you discover less-frequented trails.

While the guide focuses on the trails themselves, many starting points for routes around Ancey are accessible from towns and villages that may have public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules for specific villages like Velars, En Pandaillas, or Corcelles-les-Monts, which serve as starting points for popular routes like the Saint-Antoine de Fixey Church – Descente Single Chenove loop from Sainte-Marie-sur-Ouche.