4.8
(8)
30
riders
7
rides
Mountain bike trails around Pimelles are set within the verdant, rolling hills and green fields of rural Burgundy, offering varied terrain for cycling. The region features elevations ranging from 183 to 277 meters, providing a mix of inclines and descents. The Gland stream, Burgundy Canal, and Armançon river traverse the area, complementing a network of paths through woods and vineyards. This landscape provides diverse mountain biking opportunities for different skill levels.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
8
riders
38.9km
02:06
90m
90m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
31.5km
02:16
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.

Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
7
riders
17.4km
00:55
30m
30m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
39.4km
03:12
500m
500m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.7
(3)
2
riders
19.5km
01:14
140m
140m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Magnificent Exterior Trompe l'oeil Gallery
0
0
A "chemin de halage", in German "treidelpfad", which runs alongside the waterway right next to the bed of the river or canal, was an indispensable part of the transport infrastructure in earlier times. Before ships could move using motor power, horses ran along the bank and pulled the ship against the current. This was called "treideln", and that is how the "treidelpfad" got its name. Where these paths directly on the bank have been preserved, they are now popular with hikers and cyclists.
1
0
The Burgundy Canal is 242 km long, it connects the Seine basin to the Rhône basin. Previously used for moving goods, but since the 1960s the canal has been used almost exclusively for recreational boating.
0
0
The Dionne pit is a karst source called the Vauclusian source, located in the city center of Tonnerre. It is fed by the infiltration of precipitation into the surrounding limestone plateau as well as by the losses of at least one river. The Dionne pit is remarkable for its flow and the size of its hydrogeological network which extends to more than 40 km. His presence is at the origin of the creation of the city of Tonnerre. An elaborate washhouse was built around the spring in the 18th century. Wikipedia
0
0
A real must-see - this round wash house around a turquoise green source is unique in its kind and well worth the detour.
0
0
Set up for the section of the canal opened to traffic in 1832 (from Pont-de-Pany to Tonnerre). Located on the right bank, the lock keeper's house is built of coated rubble stones, with mechanical tiles. A lean-to extension extends the right side of the roof of the house. Extremely remodeled, the house today opens through a semi-circular door, in the extension.
1
0
The mystery of this pit is complete. The city was built around it.
0
2
The deep basin of the karst spring with the historic washhouse around it is, in my opinion, the main attraction in Tonnerre. Depending on your perspective, when the sun is shining you will see deep turquoise water in front of you. Plus the rushing of the water. You can also just sit here for a while and enjoy. When we visited the spring on a Friday morning, there was surprisingly little going on.
2
0
The mountain bike trails around Pimelles are characterized by the verdant, rolling hills and green fields typical of rural Burgundy. You'll encounter a mix of inclines and descents, with elevations ranging from 183 to 277 meters above sea level. Many routes also follow the historic Burgundy Canal, offering flatter sections along towpaths, and wind through woods and vineyards.
Yes, Pimelles offers several mountain bike trails suitable for beginners. These routes often correspond to an 'easy' difficulty level (STS S0 - S1). An example is the Mountainbike loop from Tanlay, which is 10.8 miles (17.4 km) long and leads through gentle landscapes.
While the guide highlights mostly easy to moderate routes, the region's diverse topography does offer potential for more challenging terrain. Experienced riders seeking significant elevation gains and more technical sections (STS S3 - S6) may find opportunities by exploring the varied landscapes beyond the canal towpaths. The Tonnerre – Fosse Dionne loop from Mélisey, for instance, is a moderate 19.6 miles (31.5 km) path that explores varied topography including woodlands and open fields.
While mountain biking near Pimelles, you can enjoy the picturesque landscapes of rural Burgundy, including rolling hills, green fields, and vineyards. The Gland stream, Burgundy Canal, and Armançon river traverse the area, offering scenic water features. You can also ride along the Towpath of the Canal de Bourgogne and pass by historical locks like Lock 85 - Lezinnes.
Yes, the region is rich in historical sites. You can cycle past the stunning 16th-century Manoir de Pimelles and other Renaissance chateaus. Notably, the Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Tanlay loop from Lézinnes will take you past the magnificent Château de Tanlay. The Canal de Bourgogne at Tanlay – Château de Tanlay loop from Lézinnes also offers views of this historic castle. Nearby, you can also find Ancy-le-Franc Castle.
The rolling hills and green fields of Burgundy are beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures for mountain biking, with vibrant foliage or blooming landscapes. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially along the shaded canal towpaths. Winter mountain biking is possible, but conditions may vary, with some trails potentially becoming muddy.
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Pimelles are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Tanlay loop from Lézinnes and the Mountainbike loop from Tanlay. The Château de Tanlay – Canal de Bourgogne at Tanlay loop from Tanlay is another excellent circular option.
Yes, the region offers family-friendly options, particularly along the canal towpaths which provide relatively flat and easy routes. Trails categorized as 'easy' are generally suitable for families. The Mountainbike loop from Tanlay is a good example of a shorter, gentler route that families might enjoy.
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the public footpaths and trails in rural France, including those suitable for mountain biking, especially if kept on a leash. However, it's always advisable to check local signage or specific regulations for any protected areas or private land you might encounter to ensure compliance.
The mountain bike routes in Pimelles are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from more than 5 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic views of the Burgundy Canal, and the charming rural landscapes that make for an enjoyable cycling experience.
There are several mountain bike trails available in the Pimelles area. Komoot currently lists 7 distinct mountain bike tours, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, providing a good selection for different skill levels.
While Pimelles itself is a quaint village, the surrounding region, especially along the Burgundy Canal and in nearby towns like Tanlay or Lézinnes, offers opportunities for refreshments. You might find local bistros or cafes. For example, the Bistrot du Canal & Lavoir de Chassignelles is a highlight that could be a stop along a canal-side route.


Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.