The best traffic-free bike rides around Boullarre

There are over 20 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Boullarre, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. You'll find routes suitable for all skill levels, from easy family rides to more challenging excursions.

The no-traffic routes around Boullarre primarily feature a mix of paved paths, often on former railway lines like the Greenway of the Pays de Valois, and well-maintained tracks. You'll cycle through open cereal-growing plateaus, offering expansive views, and also through sections of forests, providing varied scenery. The terrain is generally gentle, with some routes incorporating moderate elevation changes.

Yes, several no-traffic routes are ideal for families. The VOIE VERTE DU VALOIS – Greenway of the Pays de Valois loop from Rouvres-en-Multien is an easy option, covering about 17 km with minimal elevation, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Greenway itself is a safe, dedicated path away from vehicle traffic.

Many of the no-traffic routes, especially those on the Greenway of the Pays de Valois, are generally dog-friendly, provided your dog is on a leash and you clean up after them. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with cycling and that you carry enough water for both of you.

You can discover several interesting sites. For example, the routes often pass near La Ferté-Milon, where you can see the impressive unfinished castle of Louis of Orléans. You might also catch a glimpse of the Gothic-style Mareuil-sur-Ourcq church from across the canal. The Greenway of the Pays de Valois itself is a highlight, offering scenic views through forests and fields.

Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Boullarre are designed as loops. For instance, the Greenway of the Pays de Valois – VOIE VERTE DU VALOIS loop from Thury-en-Valois offers a substantial 43 km circular ride, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps.

The best time for touring cycling in Boullarre is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with less rain and comfortable temperatures for longer rides. The landscapes are also at their most vibrant, whether with spring blossoms or autumn colors.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these routes. For example, you can often find parking in Mareuil-sur-Ourcq, Thury-en-Valois, or Rouvres-en-Multien, which are common access points for the Greenway of the Pays de Valois. Look for designated public parking areas within these communities.

While the dedicated no-traffic paths themselves might not have direct cafes, the routes often connect to or pass through charming villages like Mareuil-sur-Ourcq and La Ferté-Milon. These towns offer opportunities to find local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants where you can refuel and relax during your ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and safety of the dedicated paths, particularly the Greenway of the Pays de Valois, and the beautiful, varied scenery that combines open fields with peaceful forest sections. The historical points of interest along the way are also frequently mentioned as enriching the cycling experience.

The Greenway of the Pays de Valois, a converted railway line, conveniently connects with the towpath of the Ourcq Canal. This connection provides an extended network of dedicated and scenic routes, allowing for longer, continuous no-traffic cycling experiences through diverse landscapes.