The best traffic-free bike rides around Vivy
4.3
(30)
263
riders
14
rides
Gravel biking around Vivy offers access to the diverse landscapes of France's Maine-et-Loire department, situated within the greater Loire Valley. The region features a mix of arable land, agricultural areas, and forests, providing varied scenery and riding surfaces. Riders can explore paths along the Authion River Valley, known for its flat terrain and natural beauty, or venture onto "Falun" gravel tracks, a unique compact white limestone surface. The area's proximity to the Loire River and its tributaries ensures a network…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
4.0
(1)
15
riders
52.4km
03:37
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
14
riders
47.7km
03:03
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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15
riders
65.6km
03:53
630m
630m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
95.8km
05:33
810m
810m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
94.5km
05:26
250m
250m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Vivy
Tips from the Community
The sights are good but the terrain is not especially after high winds and heavy rain. Some people might find it tricky to navigate.
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For those who want to discover some art objects.
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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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A castle-palace of the Dukes of Anjou in the 19th and 19th centuries, the Château de Saumur, where King René resided, is the last example of the princely palaces built by the Valois dynasty. It served as the residence of the city's governors, a prison, and later an arms and ammunition depot. It was purchased by the city in 1906 to house the municipal museum, now the Musée de France. Today, we discover the rich collections scattered throughout the former apartments of the Dukes of Anjou in an educational museography. Want to know more? Click here: https://www.ot-saumur.fr/en/castles-and-country-houses/Saumurcastle-5261718/
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice there for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. In February 2025, a fire broke out. Source Wikipedia
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. A fire broke out in February 2025. Source Wikipedia
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Very nice gravel along the banks of the Loire. Know that you are not alone here. Enjoy together, each at their own pace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Vivy?
There are 11 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Vivy featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate to difficult, ensuring a suitable option for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails near Vivy?
The gravel bike trails around Vivy offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll encounter paths through arable land, agricultural areas, and forests. A unique feature of the wider Loire Valley is the 'Falun' gravel tracks, made of compact white limestone. Many routes also follow the banks of the Authion river, providing flat and accessible sections through marshes and horticultural valleys.
What is the typical difficulty level for gravel biking around Vivy?
The trails around Vivy are generally suited for experienced gravel bikers. This guide features 4 moderate and 7 difficult routes. For example, the Château de Saumur – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop from Saumur is rated difficult, covering over 52 km with significant elevation gain.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes suitable for all ages?
While many routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the region's flat areas, particularly along the Authion river and within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, offer accessible terrain. For a more relaxed experience, consider exploring the paths around the Plan d'eau des Monteaux, which are generally flat and suitable for walking or gentle cycling, though not explicitly listed as a gravel bike route in this guide.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel bike trails around Vivy?
Many natural areas and trails in France are dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a leash. However, specific regulations can vary. It's always best to check local signage or park rules, particularly in protected areas like the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, to ensure a pleasant experience for both you and your pet.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions I can see along the gravel routes?
The region around Vivy is rich in history and natural beauty. Many routes offer views of the Loire River and pass by significant sites. You might encounter the impressive Château de Saumur, or explore the unique Souzay-Champigny troglodyte site. The Loire Riverside Gravel Trail itself is a highlight, offering scenic views along the water.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Vivy?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Vivy, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Riders often praise the diverse landscapes, the quiet nature of the trails, and the opportunity to explore the picturesque Loire Valley away from traffic. The mix of forest paths, agricultural roads, and riverside trails provides a varied and engaging ride.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Vivy?
Yes, several routes in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Le Thoureil Village – View of the Loire loop from Saumur offers a challenging 65 km circular ride, providing stunning views of the Loire.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking around Vivy?
The Loire Valley generally offers pleasant cycling conditions from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are often preferred. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially muddy sections, especially in forested or riverside areas.
Where can I park my car when accessing these no-traffic gravel trails?
While specific parking details for each route are best checked on the individual tour pages, many routes start from towns like Saumur or Les Quettiers, which typically offer public parking facilities. For example, the Saumur – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop from Les Quettiers begins from a location likely to have parking options.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting along the trails?
Yes, the diverse natural environments around Vivy, especially along the Authion river and near the Plan d'eau des Monteaux, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation. The Plan d'eau des Monteaux is particularly noted for birdwatching, with various species inhabiting the area. Keep an eye out for herons and other wetland birds along the riverbanks.
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