The best gravel rides around Onlay
3.9
(6)
41
riders
14
rides
Gravel biking around Onlay, situated within the Morvan Regional Natural Park in France, offers diverse terrain for mixed-surface cycling. The region is characterized by green hills, dense forests, and winding paths, providing varied experiences for gravel bikers. Notable features include the elevated areas of Haut-Folin Pass and Mont Beuvray, alongside serene lake areas such as Lac des Settons. This landscape supports routes that combine cycle paths with quieter roads and unpaved sections.
Best gravel bike trails around Onlay
- The most…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
3.0
(2)
12
riders
103km
07:36
1,800m
1,800m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
98.8km
07:34
2,230m
2,230m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
5
riders
52.6km
04:17
1,200m
1,210m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(1)
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
8
riders
87.6km
06:15
1,570m
1,570m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Pannecière reservoir was commissioned in 1949. This artificial lake's purpose is to increase the flow of the Yonne and Seine rivers and to mitigate the risk of flooding. It is the largest lake in the Morvan region.
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The Ouroux-en-Morvan pond offers an ideal setting for a relaxing break by the water. A small, shaded path circles the pond. You'll find several spots for picnics and simply enjoying the surroundings.
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Haut-Folin is the highest point in the Morvan region and, more broadly, in Burgundy, at 901 meters above sea level. This mountain boasts a beautiful natural setting with areas covered in deciduous and coniferous trees. It is also the starting point for numerous hiking and cycling trails.
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A beautiful forest cycle ride, winding through the remains of the Gaulish village of Bibracte! The goal after the Col du Rebout is a one-way loop that descends to Saint-Léger-sous-Beuvray.
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Beautiful and very pleasant for a break!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Onlay?
There are 14 gravel bike trails available around Onlay, offering a variety of experiences within the Morvan Regional Natural Park. The region is known for its diverse terrain, combining cycle paths with quieter roads and unpaved sections.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Onlay?
Gravel biking around Onlay is generally challenging, with 13 out of 14 routes rated as difficult. These trails often feature significant elevation changes and varied terrain, making them suitable for experienced riders. There is also 1 moderate route available for those seeking a slightly less strenuous ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in the Morvan Regional Natural Park?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park, where Onlay is situated, offers a varied landscape for gravel biking. You can expect a mix of green hills, dense forests, and winding paths. Routes often combine cycle paths with quieter roads and unpaved sections, providing a true mixed-surface cycling experience.
Are there any routes that offer significant climbs or panoramic views?
Yes, several routes provide challenging climbs and spectacular views. For instance, the Haut-Folin Pass – Haut-Folin Summit loop from Château-Chinon (Campagne) ascends to the highest point in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering panoramic vistas. Mont Beuvray also provides elevated terrain with scenic outlooks.
Are there any notable natural features or landmarks to see along the gravel bike routes near Onlay?
Absolutely! The area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the Dragne Waterfall, the Sources of the Yonne, or the Mont Beuvray and Bibracte Archaeological Site. The Haut-Folin Pass is another significant natural attraction, and the serene Rangère Pond offers a peaceful stop.
Are there any loop gravel bike trails around Onlay?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Onlay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Settons Lake (south) – Lake of Settons loop from Château-Chinon and the Mont Beuvray – Saint-Prix loop from Château-Chinon (Campagne).
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails around Onlay?
The gravel bike trails around Onlay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 5 reviews. More than 40 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the challenging climbs and the natural beauty of the Morvan Regional Natural Park.
Are there any gravel routes that pass by lakes or reservoirs?
Yes, the region features several beautiful water bodies. The Settons Lake (south) – Lake of Settons loop from Château-Chinon circles the scenic Lac des Settons. Additionally, routes like the Pannecière reservoir lake – Pont des Vouas over the Yonne loop from Château-Chinon (Campagne) and the Pannecière Dam – Lake Chaumard-Pannecière loop from Château-Chinon (Campagne) explore the areas around the Pannecière reservoir.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Onlay?
The Morvan Regional Natural Park is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking, with milder temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer can also be enjoyable, though some routes might be more exposed to the sun. Winter conditions can be challenging due to potential cold and precipitation.
Are there any historical sites or towns worth visiting near the gravel routes?
Yes, the area is rich in history. The nearby town of Château-Chinon Town Center, considered the capital of Morvan, offers historical attractions. At the base of Mont Beuvray lies the Gallo-Roman history museum of Bibracte, providing insight into the region's past.
Are there any specific routes that are particularly long or challenging?
For a significant challenge, consider the Settons Lake (south) – Lake of Settons loop from Château-Chinon. This difficult trail spans 62.8 miles (101.0 km) with substantial elevation gain, typically taking nearly 9 hours to complete. Another demanding option is the Mont Beuvray – Saint-Prix loop from Château-Chinon (Campagne), covering 59.2 miles (95.3 km).
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