The best gravel rides around Bourguignons

There are 12 gravel bike trails around Bourguignons listed in this guide. The region, particularly the Morvan Regional Natural Park, is known for its extensive network of earthen paths, forest tracks, and quiet country roads, offering a multitude of options beyond these featured routes.

The routes around Bourguignons offer a mix of challenges, with 1 easy, 5 moderate, and 6 difficult trails. The Morvan area features 'manageable climbs' that are less demanding than mountainous regions, yet still provide a good workout for those seeking it.

While many routes here are moderate to difficult, the region's diverse terrain includes options suitable for various skill levels. For a less strenuous ride, look for routes described as 'easy' or consider exploring the greenways along the Canal du Nivernais, which offer flatter, more accessible paths.

Gravel biking in Bourguignons takes you through diverse and picturesque landscapes. You'll encounter rolling hills, dense forests, expansive vineyards, and tranquil waterways. Routes often traverse earth, gravel, and rock surfaces, providing a dynamic experience through areas like the Morvan Regional Natural Park and the renowned wine-growing regions.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Bourguignons are designed as loops. For example, the Two Bars loop and the Templiers loop are popular circular options, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.

Along your rides, you might encounter charming villages, historic sites, and natural formations. Specific highlights include the Waterfall and arch on the Vélovoie des Lacs d'Orient, the Bar-sur-Seine Town Center, and the scenic Chemin de Chervey. The region is also famous for its vineyards and waterways, offering many picturesque spots.

Burgundy is enjoyable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially through the vineyards. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter riding is possible, but be mindful of weather conditions and potential trail changes due to rain or snow.

The Morvan Regional Natural Park, a key area for gravel biking, is home to significant lakes such as Setton, Saint-Agnan, and Pannecière. These lakes are popular for swimming and other water activities, providing excellent spots to cool off after a ride.

Gravel bikers frequently praise the region's diverse terrain, which seamlessly blends asphalt with natural surfaces like earth, gravel, and rocks. The picturesque landscapes, from dense forests to expansive vineyards, and the sense of tranquility in areas like the Morvan Regional Natural Park are also highly valued.

Yes, the region offers options for longer rides. Beyond the routes in this guide, Burgundy is known for extensive loops, such as a 225km circuit from Avallon through the Morvan massif and its lakes, or a 60km trail from Montigny-en-Morvan past the Lac de Pannecière dam. You can find more information on these longer routes on the Burgundy Tourism website.

Many routes in the Bourguignons area, especially those starting near towns or popular natural sites, offer designated parking. For example, the Forêt de Rumilly – Bar-sur-Seine Town Center loop from Étang de la Motte suggests a starting point with potential parking. It's advisable to check specific route details for parking information near your chosen starting point.

Yes, the region is dotted with charming villages and towns, many of which offer cafes, restaurants, and local shops. Routes that pass through or near town centers, like the Troyes – Chappes Spillway loop from Chappes, often provide opportunities for refreshments and meals.