The best gravel rides around Saint-Laon
4.5
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60
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9
rides
Gravel biking around Saint-Laon offers routes through a landscape characterized by historical sites and river valleys. The region features a mix of rural paths and varied terrain suitable for gravel bikes. These trails often connect significant landmarks, providing diverse riding experiences. The area's topography includes gentle undulations and some more challenging ascents.
Best gravel bike trails around Saint-Laon
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Chinon Fortress – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Loudun, a difficult 61.5 miles (99.0…
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.0
(1)
26
riders
97.2km
06:31
970m
970m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
10
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
59.0km
04:09
590m
590m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
123km
07:29
850m
850m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
58.7km
03:58
250m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The old Clécé train station marks a stop on the old railway line converted into a greenway. The disused building, with its simple lines and exposed timbers, is a perfect resting spot for a break.
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The Church of Saint-Généroux is a site well worth a visit during a hike. It dates back to the 10th century and is considered one of the oldest churches in France, as it features pre-Romanesque architecture found nowhere else. The church is located on the banks of the Thouet River. You can also admire the Romanesque bridge (13th century).
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
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History in brief Antiquity: the site is strategically located on a promontory and has been inhabited for 3,000 years. It was not fortified until the end of the Roman Empire. Middle Ages: in 1154, the new King of England, Henry II Plantagenet, became ruler of an empire stretching from Scotland to the Pyrenees and made Chinon his continental capital. He had a large palace built next to the fortress, which has now disappeared. In 1189, abandoned by his sons, Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland, and fleeing from the King of France, he eventually died there. Philippe Auguste had the defensive Tour du Coudray built there after the siege of 1205. Renaissance: in 1454, the fortress became the main residence of Queen Marie d'Anjou, who lived there without her husband. She spent lavishly on decorating the house to her taste. From the 16th century onwards, the fortress was gradually abandoned and fell into disrepair. Despite the dangerous nature of the terrain, it became a public promenade in 1824 and was listed as a monument in 1840. The restoration of the estate began in 1854 thanks to the efforts of the writer Prosper Mérimée. Source: https://loirelovers.fr/en/visit-royal-fort-chinon/
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Tough calf biter. Here you know why there are gears on your bike.
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Come in the right season and admire the rolling landscape where sunflowers show their best side.
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Fontevraud-l'Abbaye is located in the natural region of the Loire Valley, listed as a "living cultural landscape" by UNESCO. As its name suggests, the history and present of the municipality are closely linked to the Abbey of Notre-Dame, founded in 1099. The abbey presents the originality of being part of a mixed order, but led by abbesses until the Revolution. was the necropolis of the Plantagenet dynasty. The recumbent figures of Richard the Lionheart, Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine are still preserved there. The vast abbey complex was transformed by Napoleon I into a penal colony and then into a "central house". This extraordinary prison closed its doors in 1963. While the abbey church and the various monastic sites were rehabilitated, the entire old abbey has since housed a prestigious cultural centre with, among other things, a renowned art museum, welcoming meetings and artists in residence. Art, history and heritage are highlighted throughout the year.
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Located at the crossroads of Anjou, Touraine and Poitou, welcome to the Fontevraud-l'Abbaye Tourist Office, our travel advisors will welcome you in front of the Saint-Michel church to help you discover the destination. Let us advise you and discover a village full of charm. Formed around the famous royal abbey, the Plantagenets necropolis, it is today a lively village, rich in numerous monuments, shops and craftsmen. The Tourist Office offers you: a privileged welcome - a free wifi hotspot - a shop with a wide choice of regional products, gifts, books and souvenirs - good tips to visit more and spend less when buying your entrance tickets - a complete tourist guide - a website - but also to travel light, by leaving your luggage with us. More information and opening hours at https://www.ot-saumur.fr/nl/sheets/vvv-kantoor-fontevraud-labbaye-5404626/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Saint-Laon?
There are 10 gravel bike routes available around Saint-Laon, offering a diverse range of experiences through historical sites and river valleys. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking routes in Saint-Laon?
The gravel biking routes around Saint-Laon are generally considered challenging. Out of the 10 available routes, 6 are rated as difficult and 4 as moderate, indicating varied terrain with gentle undulations and some more demanding ascents.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in the Saint-Laon area?
While many routes are rated as difficult or moderate, the region's rural paths and varied terrain can be adapted for families. For a less strenuous experience, consider shorter sections of trails or explore areas with flatter profiles. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it suits your family's ability.
What kind of historical landmarks can I expect to see along the gravel bike trails?
Gravel biking around Saint-Laon often connects significant historical landmarks. For example, the route Chinon Fortress – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Loudun links two major historical sites. You can also find routes passing by historical churches, such as the Pont des Chouans on the Thouet – Saint-Médard Church of Thouars loop from Pas-de-Jeu.
Are there any loop gravel bike routes available?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Saint-Laon are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. An example is the Roman camp – Cinais Roman Camp loop from Loudun, which takes you through historical Roman camp sites.
What are some scenic viewpoints or natural attractions to look out for?
The region is characterized by river valleys and rural landscapes. Along the Thouet river, you can find scenic spots like Along the Thouet. Other natural monuments in the area include the Vaon Dolmen and Dolmen E 134, offering unique sights during your ride.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Saint-Laon?
The region's climate generally supports gravel biking through much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, ideal for exploring the rural paths and historical sites. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat.
Are there any castles or notable buildings to explore near the trails?
Absolutely. The area is rich in historical architecture. You can visit the impressive Château d'Oiron or the Curçay-sur-Dive Keep. The route Saint-Médard Church of Thouars – Montreuil-Bellay Castle loop from Pas-de-Jeu also passes by significant historical structures.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Saint-Laon?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Saint-Laon, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the connection to historical landmarks, and the opportunity to explore river valleys and rural landscapes.
Are there any routes that follow river paths?
Yes, several routes incorporate river paths, offering picturesque views and often flatter sections. The Pont des Chouans on the Thouet – Saint-Médard Church of Thouars loop from Pas-de-Jeu, for instance, follows the Thouet river, providing a scenic ride along its banks.
What is the longest gravel bike route available in Saint-Laon?
The longest gravel bike route in the area is the Saint-Médard Church of Thouars – Montreuil-Bellay Castle loop from Pas-de-Jeu, covering approximately 101 kilometers (62.8 miles). This challenging route offers extensive exploration of the region's landscapes and historical sites.
Can I find routes that are a good balance of distance and elevation?
For a route that offers a significant distance with notable elevation changes, consider the Missé Cirque – Château de La Coindrie loop from Pas-de-Jeu. This route spans about 62.6 kilometers (38.9 miles) with over 550 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout while exploring the area.
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