The best traffic-free bike rides around Sainte-Cécile
4.2
(4)
97
riders
11
rides
Gravel biking around Sainte-Cécile, particularly in Saône-et-Loire, France, offers diverse landscapes characterized by rolling hills, agricultural lands, and forested areas. The region features dedicated cycling infrastructure, including sections of the Voie Verte, providing routes with minimal traffic. Terrain varies from paved surfaces suitable for gravel bikes to more rugged forest paths, with notable natural features like the Vergisson Rock. The area's geography supports routes with varying elevation gains, catering to different fitness levels.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Sainte-Cécile
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Cluny – Voie verte of Southern Burgundy loop from Mâcon, a 61.6 miles (99.1 km) trail that takes 8 hours 15 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain through the Southern Burgundy landscape.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Pistole Pass – Bressard loop from Igé, a difficult 29.0 miles (46.7 km) path. This trail navigates through varied terrain with notable ascents.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Col de Gerbet – Col de la Grange du Bois loop from Sologny, a 30.2 miles (48.6 km) trail leading through hills and forested sections, often completed in about 3 hours 37 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Sainte-Cécile is defined by greenways, agricultural fields, and forested hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, though many routes present a difficult challenge.
- The routes in Sainte-Cécile are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.3 stars from over 7 reviews. More than 40 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Sainte-Cécile's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3.3
(3)
75
riders
99.0km
07:59
2,010m
2,010m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
70.7km
06:07
1,500m
1,500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
45.3km
03:18
670m
670m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
48.6km
03:38
1,040m
1,040m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Sainte-Cécile
Tips from the Community
Magnificent ride mostly in the shade on level, smooth ground.
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The imposing Chateau can only be viewed from the outside.
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The historic washhouse of Collonges (often also referred to as Lavoir de Cruzille), located in the French municipality of Cruzille in the Saône-et-Loire department in the Burgundy region. Such covered public wash places (French: Lavoir) were built in the 18th and 19th centuries in many French villages to make it easier for women to wash clothes. The building in the selected area has an open front with striking stone columns and a forelying fountain basin with a decorative pillar in the middle.
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The historic church Église Saint-Pierre de Cruzille originally dates from the early 12th century and was built in the Romanesque style. Despite numerous renovations over the centuries, the church has retained its overall Romanesque character.
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The caves were already used by humans and animals around 250,000 years ago. It is mainly known for the huge number of found bones of cave bears and cave lions. Visitors can explore a prehistoric cave full of bone finds as well as a second cave with an impressive underground river. Right on site, there is an archaeological museum that displays the finds.
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Although the pass is located in France and is not extremely high, its name translates to "Siberia Pass". The name goes back to the often very cold, snow-rich winds and the harsh weather conditions in winter.
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The Col de Gerbet (612 m) is an idyllic mountain pass in the French wine-growing region of Beaujolais. Depending on the starting point, various roads with little traffic lead up to the pass via the D137. From Juliénas (south-east approach): This route is 7.3 kilometers long. It overcomes 342 meters of altitude with a steady, moderate gradient of 4.7% on average. The road winds through shady forest sections. From La Croix Blanche (west approach): A tougher variant 4.5 kilometers long. Here you conquer 270 meters of altitude with an average gradient of 6% and ramps of up to 11%.
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The former Cluny-Chalon-sur-Saône railway line has been decommissioned. The old station grounds now serve as the central bus stop ("Cluny Gare") for regional buses. Lines 701 and 709 of the Mobigo network connect the town to the TGV station in Mâcon in about 30 minutes. Directly at the old station runs the Voie Verte (an asphalted railway path cycle route). There is a large e-bike and bicycle rental service on site for tourists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Sainte-Cécile?
There are 8 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails available for exploration around Sainte-Cécile. These routes are generally considered challenging, offering a rewarding experience for riders seeking a more demanding adventure.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Sainte-Cécile?
The Sainte-Cécile region in Saône-et-Loire, France, offers a diverse mix of terrain. You can expect varied landscapes, including dedicated cycling infrastructure like greenways, alongside more natural paths. While many routes are suitable for gravel bikes, they often feature significant elevation changes and can be quite demanding, as all listed routes are rated 'difficult'.
Are there any notable landmarks or natural features to see along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
Yes, the trails around Sainte-Cécile offer several interesting sights. You can cycle through the historic Tunnel du bois clair, known as Europe's longest bicycle tunnel. Another natural highlight is the Vergisson Rock, offering scenic views. The routes also pass near historical settlements like Cluny and Tramayes, and the Lamartine House.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic gravel bike routes for extended rides?
Yes, for those looking for a longer adventure, the Cluny – Voie verte of Southern Burgundy loop from Mâcon is a substantial option. This route covers nearly 100 km with over 2000 meters of elevation gain, making it a challenging and rewarding long-distance ride.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Sainte-Cécile?
The komoot community rates the trails around Sainte-Cécile with an average of 3.3 stars. Riders often praise the challenging nature of the routes and the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and historical sites of the Southern Burgundy region away from traffic.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel bike routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes in the region are designed as loops. For example, the Pistole Pass – Bressard loop from Igé offers a challenging 46 km circular ride with over 680 meters of elevation gain, perfect for returning to your starting point.
Can I find routes that combine greenways with more natural gravel paths?
Absolutely. The Greenway of Southern Burgundy – Voie Verte de Bourgogne du sud loop from La Roche-Vineuse is a great example. This 27 km route incorporates sections of the well-maintained greenway, offering a mix of surfaces while still providing a challenging ride with over 540 meters of ascent.
Are there any routes that explore forested areas?
Yes, the Mont Rouge – Forest Path Around Chevagny loop from La Roche-Vineuse takes you through beautiful forested sections. This 50 km route offers a significant challenge with over 700 meters of elevation, immersing you in the natural environment of the region.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Sainte-Cécile?
While specific seasonal recommendations aren't provided, the varied landscapes of Saône-et-Loire, France, generally make spring and autumn ideal for gravel biking. The weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant or colorful, providing comfortable conditions for challenging rides.
Are there any routes with significant climbs for advanced riders?
All the no-traffic gravel routes in this guide are rated 'difficult' and feature substantial elevation gains. For instance, the Col de Gerbet – Col de la Grange du Bois loop from Sologny includes over 1000 meters of climbing over its 48 km distance, providing a serious test for advanced gravel bikers.
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