The best gravel rides around Charbonnières
4.3
(19)
201
riders
19
rides
Gravel biking around Charbonnières features diverse terrain within the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, characterized by verdant, hilly, and wooded landscapes. The area is situated between the Monts d'Or and the Monts du Lyonnais, providing dynamic ascents and descents. Routes often include a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with significant elevation changes on longer rides. The region's topography includes valleys, streams, and extensive green areas, offering varied environments for gravel cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around Charbonnières
- The most popular gravel bike…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
3.3
(3)
76
riders
67.6km
05:40
1,320m
1,320m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.6
(5)
29
riders
188km
09:11
310m
310m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
14
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
17
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The imposing Chateau can only be viewed from the outside.
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The historic washhouse of Collonges (often also referred to as Lavoir de Cruzille), located in the French municipality of Cruzille in the Saône-et-Loire department in the Burgundy region. Such covered public wash places (French: Lavoir) were built in the 18th and 19th centuries in many French villages to make it easier for women to wash clothes. The building in the selected area has an open front with striking stone columns and a forelying fountain basin with a decorative pillar in the middle.
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The historic church Église Saint-Pierre de Cruzille originally dates from the early 12th century and was built in the Romanesque style. Despite numerous renovations over the centuries, the church has retained its overall Romanesque character.
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In this small town with its surrounding endless vineyards, everyone seems to live from viticulture.
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An idyllic, paved cycle path directly on the riverbank. It is a section of the well-known French long-distance cycle route „La Voie Bleue - Moselle-Saône Radweg" (Route V50) along the Saône. The entire long-distance cycle route covers around 700 kilometers from the Luxembourg border town of Apach (near the tripoint) to Lyon. The Saône section follows the natural meanders of the Saône, passing meadows, historic villages, and well-known wine-growing regions such as Mâcon. The route is mostly flat on former towpaths.
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An idyllic, asphalted cycle path right on the riverbank. This is a section of the well-known French long-distance cycle route "La Voie Bleue - Moselle-Saône Radweg" (Route V50) along the Saône. The entire long-distance cycle route runs for around 700 kilometers from the French border town of Apach (near the tripoint) to Lyon. The Saône section follows the natural meanders of the Saône, passing meadows, historic villages, and well-known wine-growing regions such as Mâcon. The route runs mostly flat on former towpaths.
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The Plan d'Eau de Fleurville (also known as Gravière de Fleurville) is a beautiful recreational and natural lake in the Saône-et-Loire department. The body of water is located directly on the border of the municipalities of Saint-Albain and Fleurville on the Saône. It is a former gravel pit that has been renatured and is today an important refuge for biodiversity as well as a popular excursion destination. The lake is equipped with picnic tables, fishing piers, and observation points. It is an excellent place for hiking, cycling (near the Voie Bleue cycle path), and birdwatching (e.g. for storks and migratory birds).
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The historic old town of Tournus, a French town in the Burgundy region (Saône-et-Loire department). Main attractions: Saint-Philibert Abbey Church: One of the most important Romanesque buildings in France from the 11th and 12th centuries. Picturesque alleys: The old town is characterized by narrow, right-angled streets, colorful facades, and flat roofs with round tiles that have a Mediterranean feel. Hôtel-Dieu: A historic hospital with a well-preserved, ornate 17th-century pharmacy. Greuze Monument: A statue in honor of the famous painter Jean-Baptiste Greuze, born in Tournus in 1725.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Charbonnières?
There are over 20 gravel bike trails in and around Charbonnières, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. The komoot community has highly rated these routes, with an average score of 4.5 stars.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel routes in Charbonnières?
Gravel routes in Charbonnières feature diverse terrain, characterized by verdant, hilly, and wooded landscapes nestled between the Monts d'Or and the Monts du Lyonnais. You'll encounter a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with dynamic ascents and descents, and scenic paths through valleys and along streams.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Charbonnières?
Yes, Charbonnières offers routes suitable for a more relaxed pace. For instance, the Between Fleurville and Tournus – Between Tournus and Mâcon loop from Fleurville is a moderate 54 km path with minimal elevation changes, making it a good option for those seeking a less strenuous ride.
What are some challenging gravel routes with significant elevation gain in the area?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Fleurville Castle – View of Royer loop from Fleurville - Pont-de-Vaux offer over 1200 meters of elevation gain over 64 km. Another demanding option is the Chapelle Saint-Criat – Mount Saint-Romain loop from Azé, which includes significant climbs through varied landscapes.
What natural features or viewpoints can I see along the gravel bike trails?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy panoramic views, such as the View of Mâcon and the Saône from the François Mitterand bridge, or the phenomenal vistas from Croix de Roche Coche. Many routes also pass through lush wooded areas, valleys, and along streams, offering a sense of immersion in nature.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest near the gravel routes?
Yes, the area combines natural beauty with historical elements. You might encounter sites like the Lamartine House, where poet Alphonse de Lamartine spent his childhood, or the Maison de Bois of Mâcon. These add a cultural dimension to your ride.
Are there any loop gravel bike trails around Charbonnières?
Many of the gravel routes in Charbonnières are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Mont Rouge – Forest Path Around Chevagny loop from Saint-Maurice-de-Satonnay and the scenic Greenway of Southern Burgundy – Cluny loop from Péronne.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Charbonnières?
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region generally offers pleasant conditions for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery, while autumn provides vibrant foliage. Summers are typically warm, but it's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially for longer rides with significant elevation.
Is Charbonnières-les-Bains a dog-friendly area for gravel biking?
While many natural areas in France are generally welcoming to dogs, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock. Check specific trail regulations for any restrictions, and ensure your dog is fit enough for the chosen route and has access to water.
Are there any parks or green spaces to explore near the gravel trails?
Yes, the region boasts several beautiful parks. The Serres valley, a protected area, is known for its natural diversity. Additionally, developed parks like Lacroix-Laval and Paradon offer scenic beauty. The Parc de la Bressonnière, with its remarkable trees and walking paths, is also a notable green space nearby. You can find more information about the Parc de la Bressonnière at visiterlyon.com.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Charbonnières?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the mix of challenging climbs and scenic descents, and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the verdant, wooded environment between the Monts d'Or and Monts du Lyonnais.
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