The best gravel rides around Grignon
4.8
(14)
31
riders
7
rides
Gravel biking around Grignon offers routes through a landscape characterized by historic canals, river valleys, and gentle rolling terrain. The region features paths alongside waterways like the Canal de Bourgogne and the Brenne river. Elevation gains are generally moderate, making the area accessible for various skill levels. This environment provides a mix of flat sections and slight inclines suitable for gravel cycling.
Best gravel bike trails around Grignon
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Maison du Canal de Bourgogne…
Last updated: May 22, 2026
5.0
(11)
12
riders
36.8km
02:05
120m
120m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
12
riders
32.4km
01:56
90m
90m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
riders
7.88km
00:35
90m
90m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
50.9km
03:26
530m
530m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
65.4km
04:26
710m
710m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Charming place, impeccable welcome and catering!
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B&B on the banks of the canal with a terrace open to all for a break...
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Wonderful location on the Burgundy Canal, a welcoming hub for hikers, cyclists, and boaters. Rooms, a small restaurant with a bar and restaurant, and a small grocery store for basic needs. And Christel and Gérald are two warm hosts. We loved our stay there. maison-du-canal.fr
1
0
An interestingly designed public space near the bridge over the Brenne River, a prime spot with a view, a bridgehead, and a city terrace. Designed by local architects Atelier B2A, 2019.
2
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A wonderful location on the Canal de Bourgogne, a welcoming hub for hikers, cyclists, and boaters. Rooms, a small restaurant with a bar and restaurant, and a small grocery store for basic needs. And Christel and Gérald are two welcoming hosts. For long-distance hikers on the Sentier Bibracte, Alésia is a good stopover, even if it's a bit off the beaten track—the detour is worth it! https://www.maison-du-canal.fr/
4
0
A lovely little stopover along the Canal, not far from Vitteaux. Head to the little bistro (red sign), where you'll eat like kings for next to nothing.
1
0
The Abbey of Fontenay, like all monasteries and places of worship, was, of course, founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding significance, it has also been honored with the title of "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The German-language television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites around the world in quarter-hour segments. One episode also deals with this abbey, and the website reads: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monastic ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls its followers to return to early Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks establish their first monastery, "Citeaux," after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The order grows rapidly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread throughout France, even to Germany. The Fontenay Abbey is also founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
3
0
The Abbey of Fontenay was, like all monasteries and places of worship, of course founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding importance, it has also been "ennobled" by UNESCO with the title of "World Cultural Heritage". The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites all over the world in quarter-hour contributions. One episode also deals with this abbey, on the website you can read: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monks' ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls on its followers to return to original Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks found their first monastery "Citeaux", after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The religious order grows quickly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread across France and into Germany. The Fontenay monastery was founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Grignon?
You'll find over a dozen gravel bike trails around Grignon, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has mapped 13 distinct routes in the area.
Are there easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Grignon?
Yes, Grignon offers several easy gravel bike trails perfect for beginners. For instance, the Bridge over the Brenne – Parc Buffon loop from Les Laumes Alésia is an easy 20.1-mile (32.4 km) path that explores the Brenne river valley with minimal elevation gain.
What are the typical lengths of gravel bike trails near Grignon?
Gravel bike trails near Grignon vary in length, but many popular routes range from approximately 20 to 28 miles (32 to 45 km). For example, the Canal de Bourgogne – Maison du Canal de Bourgogne loop from Pouillenay is 22.8 miles (36.8 km), while the Pont Pinard – Semur en Auxois loop from Semur-en-Auxois extends to 28.4 miles (45.7 km).
Are there any advanced gravel routes for experienced riders in Grignon?
While many routes feature moderate elevation, Grignon does offer some more challenging options. There are 4 routes categorized as difficult, providing a greater test for experienced gravel bikers looking for more significant climbs and longer distances.
Can I find loop gravel bike trails near Grignon?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Grignon are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Popular examples include the Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard and the Semur en Auxois loop from Semur-en-Auxois.
What kind of scenery can I expect on gravel bike routes in Grignon?
Grignon's gravel routes are known for their scenic beauty, often following historic canals like the Canal de Bourgogne, winding through river valleys such as the Brenne, and passing by gentle rolling terrain. You'll encounter a mix of natural landscapes and historical sites, including châteaux.
Are there gravel bike trails in Grignon with pub or cafe stops along the way?
While specific pub stops are not detailed for every route, the trails often pass through or near charming villages and towns along the canals and rivers. These locations typically offer opportunities for refreshments at local cafes or restaurants, especially in places like Montbard or Semur-en-Auxois.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Grignon?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Grignon, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can be warmer. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may be colder and some paths could be muddy.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Grignon's trails?
The gravel biking experience in Grignon is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 15 reviews. Riders often praise the region's accessible terrain, the picturesque canal-side paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical landmarks like châteaux.
Is public transport accessible for reaching gravel bike trails in Grignon?
Grignon and nearby towns like Montbard and Les Laumes Alésia have train stations, which can provide access points to various gravel routes. The region's network of trails often starts directly from or is easily reachable from these transport hubs, particularly those following the Canal de Bourgogne.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking options in Grignon?
Yes, the gentle rolling terrain and numerous easy sections, particularly along the canals, make Grignon suitable for family-friendly gravel biking. Routes with minimal elevation gain, such as the Semur en Auxois loop from Semur-en-Auxois, are excellent choices for families.
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