The best traffic-free bike rides around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel
4.2
(196)
1,668
riders
166
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and the scenic Sarthe River valley. The region is nestled within the Alpes Mancelles and the Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park, offering varied reliefs and a preserved natural setting. Cyclists can explore greenways and quiet country roads, providing a network of routes suitable for touring.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Saint-Léonard-des-Bois – Castle…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.3
(11)
57
riders
50.4km
03:12
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
26
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
10
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
riders
29.1km
01:49
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel
Tips from the Community
Very pretty place, nicely designed. Unfortunately, it's overcrowded with tourists. Perhaps a good stop on a hike.
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Very nice little place, nicely designed with lots of flowers.
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very varied and pleasant hike
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Superb village, perched 😰, for a bistronomic break and a little digestive stroll before setting off again in the saddle!
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Beautiful little village. Would also have been ideal for hiking.
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6 bike boxes for cycle tourists who want to visit Alençon without any hassle
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Alençon is the capital of the Orne department and lies on the southern edge of Normandy. It was once very famous for its lace and was therefore known throughout Europe. There is evidence of the existence of the city of Alençon as early as Roman times. In the 11th century, when the Normans secured their duchy to the south, the first fortified settlement was built here. This was later followed by the construction of a mighty castle. The city really achieved economic prosperity around 1650 when Madame La Perrère invented an original lace. It was in no way inferior to the Venetian lace known at the time, but it was considerably cheaper to buy. With the support of Jean-Baptiste Colbert, a royal factory was founded. As a result, more than 8,000 people worked in lace production. The "Point d'Alençon" lace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.
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The Saint-Léonard church takes its name from the hermit Saint Léonard de Vandoeuvre. The latter, born at the end of the 5th century, left his family to serve God and settled in a place called Vandoeuvre, in Saint-Léonard-des-Bois, where he lived in austerity for several years. Joined by a few disciples, he built a monastery protected by King Clotaire. The relics of Saint Leonard, who died in 570, were transported in 868 to Corbigny by the monks of Vandoeuvre to preserve them from the Normans. Part of these was undoubtedly returned around 1025 thanks to the second lord of Alençon, William I, and deposited in an old chapel dedicated to Saint Martin located on the site of the current Saint-Léonard church. This saint is often invoked to cure deafness. A first Saint-Léonard church, attested between 1160 and 1182, was probably built very close to the Saint-Martin oratory. This disappeared around the middle of the 13th century in forgotten circumstances, but parish life remained concentrated in the chapel until the end of the 15th century. It is on the latter that the current church was built, in tertiary ogival style and flamboyant Gothic interior, by Duke René d'Alençon and his wife Marguerite de Lorraine. Most of the work took place from 1490 to 1505 and it was this same year that the building was placed under the name of Saint Leonard de Noblac, a character then more popular than Saint Leonard de Vandoeuvre. On the stained glass windows of one of the eleven side chapels, which was for a certain time dedicated to Louis IX, ancestor of the counts and dukes of Alençon, and on the walls, appeared the coats of arms of the houses of Alençon and Lorraine, today now disappeared. It was in this chapel that the duchess and the duke attended services and in which a fireplace was built for them which no longer exists. After René's death, his heart is placed in a lead box, itself in the shape of a heart, covered with a stone. When around 1510, René's heart was transferred to the church of Saint-François de Mortagne, the empty box was left in his vault. In 1776, the stone, which also bears the imprint of a heart, was removed, then put back in its place, and this imprint, erased by the friction of the feet, no longer exists except in memory. In 1562, the church was pillaged by Protestants. At Easter 1645, Hertré's granite vault collapsed. Replaced by a simple plaster cradle, it was not until 1836 that a new Gothic style vault was built. The main door was built in 1663 and the clock was installed in 1727. Until 1789, this church depended on Notre-Dame and did not have a baptismal font. The carved wooden altar and pulpit, two side consoles and some mostly modern stained glass windows, deserve the tourist's attention. The Saint-Léonard church, restored in the 17th-18th centuries, then completely refurbished in the 19th century by the architect Isidore Dédaux, is classified among the historic monuments.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel?
There are over 150 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easier rides to more challenging excursions through the picturesque landscapes of the Alpes Mancelles.
What is the general terrain and difficulty level of the no-traffic touring routes?
The terrain around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel is characterized by rolling hills and dense woodlands, typical of the Alpes Mancelles. While many routes utilize quiet country roads and greenways, some sections can be quite challenging due to elevation changes. You'll find a good mix, with approximately 28 easy routes, 79 moderate routes, and 45 difficult routes available for touring cyclists.
What makes Moulins-Le-Carbonnel an ideal destination for no-traffic touring cycling?
Moulins-Le-Carbonnel is nestled within the Normandie-Maine Regional Natural Park and the Alpes Mancelles, offering a preserved natural setting with an emphasis on greenways and quiet country roads. This makes it perfect for touring cyclists seeking serene rides away from vehicle traffic, allowing for a deeper immersion in the region's natural beauty and biodiversity.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Moulins-Le-Carbonnel?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Moulins-Le-Carbonnel, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquil atmosphere, the stunning natural scenery of the Sarthe River valley and Alpes Mancelles, and the abundance of routes that allow for peaceful exploration away from cars.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes around Moulins-Le-Carbonnel are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the challenging Saint-Léonard-des-Bois – Castle of the Dukes of Alençon loop from Mieuxcé, which covers over 52 km with significant elevation gain.
Are the no-traffic routes suitable for families with children?
Yes, there are several easy and moderate no-traffic routes that are well-suited for families. These routes often follow greenways or very quiet country roads, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' to find the most family-friendly options.
Can I bring my dog on these cycling routes?
While many of the routes are on quiet country roads or dedicated paths, it's always best to check local regulations for specific trails, especially within the Natura 2000 conservation areas. Generally, dogs on a leash are welcome on public paths, but ensure they are well-behaved and that you clean up after them. Some natural areas might have restrictions during certain seasons to protect wildlife.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while cycling?
You can expect a diverse and picturesque landscape. The region is known for its rolling hills, dense woodlands, and the scenic Sarthe River valley. As part of the Alpes Mancelles and a Natura 2000 area, you'll encounter remarkable biodiversity and stunning panoramic views, particularly along the Sarthe valley.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along these routes?
Yes, the area offers several points of interest. You might cycle past the charming village of Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei, recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages. Other nearby attractions include the historic Château de Fresnay-sur-Sarthe and the Castle of the Dukes of Alençon. The village of Moulins-Le-Carbonnel itself has beautiful old stone houses and a restored parish church.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic touring cycling in Moulins-Le-Carbonnel?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling. The weather is milder, and the natural scenery is particularly vibrant with spring blossoms or autumn foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, but some paths might be muddy or less accessible.
Are there options for longer, more challenging no-traffic touring routes?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like the Chain ferry crossing – Saint-Léonard-des-Bois loop from Saint-Céneri-le-Gérei offer significant distances and elevation gains, pushing your limits while keeping you on quiet roads. This particular route covers nearly 37 km with over 750 meters of ascent.
Where can I find parking near the no-traffic bike trails?
Many of the villages and towns within the region, such as Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei or Fresnay-sur-Sarthe, offer public parking facilities that can serve as convenient starting points for your rides. Specific parking information is often available on individual route descriptions on komoot, or you can check local tourist information for designated parking areas.
Are there any cafes, pubs, or accommodation options along the routes?
Yes, the region is dotted with charming villages and small towns where you can find local cafes, restaurants, and pubs to refuel. Accommodation options, including guesthouses and small hotels, are also available in key locations like Saint-Cénéri-le-Gérei. It's a good idea to check opening hours, especially in smaller villages, and consider booking accommodation in advance during peak seasons.
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