The best traffic-free bike rides around Sardy-Lès-Épiry
4.5
(259)
6,566
riders
56
rides
Touring cycling around Sardy-Lès-Épiry offers a diverse landscape characterized by tranquil waterways, lush forests, and rolling hills within the Nièvre department of Burgundy-Franche-Comté. The region is notably shaped by the Canal du Nivernais, featuring a greenway that provides a quiet, scenic experience alongside historical locks. Proximity to the Morvan Natural Park introduces more varied terrain, including valleys and gentle mountains, suitable for different cycling preferences. Numerous lakes and ponds further enhance the cycling environment, offering picturesque stops amidst woodlands and open passages.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Sardy-Lès-Épiry
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is View of Château de Chitry – Chitry‑les‑Mines Castle loop from Sardy-lès‑Épiry, a 20.7 miles (33.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 56 minutes to complete. This easy route offers views of the Château de Chitry.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from Corbigny, a moderate 19.3 miles (31.0 km) path. This route follows the Canal de Nivernais, passing the notable Collancelle Locks.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from La Collancelle, a 21.6 miles (34.7 km) trail leading through the Canal de Nivernais area, often completed in about 2 hours 2 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Sardy-Lès-Épiry is defined by the Canal du Nivernais greenway, the rolling hills of the Morvan Natural Park, and numerous lakes. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Sardy-Lès-Épiry are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 4,200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Sardy-Lès-Épiry's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
413
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(16)
142
riders
40.1km
02:17
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.6
(10)
39
riders
40.6km
02:29
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
28.9km
01:49
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
44.1km
02:57
570m
570m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Sardy-Lès-Épiry
Tips from the Community
The Canal du Nivernais During the harsh winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. Wood had to be transported from other forests, particularly from the Bazois. To solve this problem, the construction of a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne was considered. Work began in 1784 with the boring of "La Montagne" at La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigable canal was planned. After 56 years of construction, the three tunnels were completed in 1840, and on March 15, 1841, the Nivernais Canal was officially opened. In the first four decades, the canal saw an increase in traffic, as it served as a means of transport for heavy loads such as stone, wood, and coal. With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the advent of the railway, the decline of navigation on the canal began. In the 1970s, political will and financial support were needed to promote river tourism, ecotourism, and cycling tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France, thanks to its gentle cruising.
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The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to build a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the drilling of "La Montagne" from La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official commissioning of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (especially stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France due to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
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The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to create a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the boring of "La Montagne" in La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official opening of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (particularly stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the most frequented canals in France, thanks to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
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pleasant and shaded
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in Chaumot, a very pleasant little port and refreshment bar on the canal.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available around Sardy-Lès-Épiry?
There are nearly 50 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Sardy-Lès-Épiry, offering a wide range of options for exploring the region's beautiful landscapes.
What is the best time of year for no traffic touring cycling in this region?
The best time to enjoy no traffic touring cycling in Sardy-Lès-Épiry is typically from spring to early autumn. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery, from lush forests to tranquil waterways, is at its most vibrant. The Canal du Nivernais – Canal de Nivernais Towpath loop from Corbigny, for instance, is particularly scenic in these seasons.
Are there easy no traffic touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 14 easy no traffic touring cycling routes around Sardy-Lès-Épiry, perfect for beginners or families. These routes often follow the gentle paths along the Canal du Nivernais, providing a flat and scenic experience. A great option is the View of Château de Chitry – Chitry‑les‑Mines Castle loop from Sardy-lès‑Épiry, which offers an easy ride with interesting sights.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no traffic routes in Sardy-Lès-Épiry?
The komoot community highly rates the no traffic touring cycling routes in Sardy-Lès-Épiry, with an average score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquility of the paths, especially along the Canal du Nivernais, the picturesque views of the Morvan Natural Park, and the charming historical villages encountered along the way.
Are there any circular no traffic touring cycling routes?
Many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Sardy-Lès-Épiry are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, the Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from Corbigny offers a fantastic circular experience, showcasing the impressive lock system.
Where can I find parking for these no traffic cycling routes?
Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these routes. For instance, Corbigny, a key hub for many Canal du Nivernais routes, offers convenient parking options. Look for designated parking areas near the canal towpaths or in the village centers.
Is public transport accessible for reaching these no traffic touring cycling routes?
While Sardy-Lès-Épiry itself is a smaller village, nearby towns like Corbigny offer more public transport connections, which can serve as access points to the wider cycling network. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional train services for connections to these larger towns, especially if you plan to start a route further afield.
What natural features can I expect to see along the no traffic touring cycling routes?
The routes offer a rich tapestry of natural beauty. You'll cycle alongside the serene Canal du Nivernais, pass by various lakes and ponds like Baye Pond, and experience the rolling hills and lush forests on the edge of the Morvan Natural Park. The Rigole d'Yonne, which feeds the canal, is another interesting waterway to observe.
Are there historical sites or landmarks to visit along these routes?
Absolutely. The region is rich in history. You can encounter charming hamlets, Romanesque churches, and even Gallo-Roman sites. The La Chapelle St Elymon is one such historical site. Many routes also pass through villages with traditional architecture, including old farms, wash houses, and fountains, adding to the cultural experience.
Are there good viewpoints along the no traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, especially on routes that venture towards the Morvan Natural Park. You can find panoramic views of the Yonne valleys and the Morvan mountains. Even along the Canal du Nivernais, there are elevated sections or bridges that offer scenic vistas of the waterway and surrounding countryside.
Can I find places to eat or picnic along the no traffic routes?
Yes, the region is well-suited for leisurely cycling with breaks. The Voie Verte of the Canal du Nivernais, for example, features designated picnic areas. Additionally, towns like Corbigny, which many routes pass through or start from, offer cafes and restaurants where you can refuel.
Are there any routes that offer wildlife spotting opportunities?
The tranquil nature of the no traffic routes, particularly those along the Canal du Nivernais and through forested areas near the Morvan, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and aquatic life along the waterways. The quiet environment enhances the chances of encountering local fauna.
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