3.9
(16)
31
riders
7
rides
Gravel biking around Authon-La-Plaine offers access to a rural landscape characterized by agricultural plains and proximity to significant forested areas. The region, located south of Paris in the Essonne department, features open fields and a network of quiet rural roads and tracks. It includes a mix of vast plateaus and valleys, providing varied terrain for cycling. This environment supports diverse gravel biking experiences away from urban traffic.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3.0
(4)
3
riders
27.7km
01:48
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
3
riders
36.4km
02:27
250m
250m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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2
riders
22.7km
01:31
90m
90m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
17.4km
01:10
130m
130m
Hard gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Authon-La-Plaine
nice but watch out for the cobblestones
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During the French Revolution, the church was converted into a "Temple of Victorious Reason" and later served as a prison until 1795.
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A Catholic parish church dedicated to Saint Germain of Auxerre, positioned in the town center facing the castle on Place du Général-de-Gaulle. Construction began in 1150 under the canons of Saint-Chéron and was completed in the 12th century, though the building endured significant damage during the Hundred Years' War and Wars of Religion before being restored. The church has been classified as a historical monument since 1967 and measures fifty meters in length with its north spire reaching fifty meters in height.
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The fortress once held up to 300 prisoners simultaneously, as recorded in revolutionary period prison registers when it served as a royal prison.
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Dourdan Castle is a 13th-century fortress built by King Philip Augustus between 1220-1222, representing the pinnacle of "Philippian" military architecture with its square plan, defensive towers, and isolated donjon. The castle holds significant historical importance as the birthplace of Hugh Capet, the first Capetian king of France, whose father built an earlier wooden fortress on the site. Throughout its history, the castle served various roles including royal residence, hunting lodge, prison, and military barracks before being restored as a historical monument in 1964.
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Great castle. A small collaborative cafe has opened right next door. You have to check the opening hours.
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There are 5 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails listed around Authon-La-Plaine. These routes offer a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options, allowing you to explore the rural landscapes of Essonne away from busy roads.
The trails around Authon-La-Plaine traverse varied terrain, including agricultural plains with quiet roads and paths, as well as sections closer to forested areas like Forêt de Dourdan. You can expect a mix of fresh earth, gravel paths, and potentially some muddy sections, offering a true gravel biking experience across plateaus and gentle valleys.
Yes, there is one easy route perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The Gravel loop from Richarville is approximately 22.7 km long with minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a gentle introduction to gravel biking in the area.
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, there are two difficult routes. Consider the Medieval town of Dourdan – Abbaye Notre-Dame de l'Ouÿe loop from Richarville, which covers about 37.3 km, or the Tourelles Farm – Medieval town of Dourdan loop from Dourdan - La Forêt, spanning around 34.4 km. Both offer significant elevation changes and diverse terrain.
Many routes pass by historical and natural points of interest. For example, routes near Dourdan might take you past the impressive Château de Dourdan or the Saint-Germain-d'Auxerre Church of Dourdan. The region also features rural charm, agricultural plains, and proximity to forests, offering scenic views throughout your ride.
Yes, all the listed no-traffic gravel bike trails are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This includes routes like the The famous Nemours crossroads – Aérotrain Bertin Bridge loop from Dourdan - La Forêt and the Villeconin Castle – Medieval town of Dourdan loop from Dourdan.
Authon-La-Plaine's rural character and network of quiet paths make it suitable for family-friendly gravel biking, especially on the easier routes. The Gravel loop from Richarville is a good option due to its lower difficulty and shorter distance, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from traffic.
The region is enjoyable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer can be great for longer days. Be mindful that some sections might become muddy after heavy rain, especially in wetter seasons, adding to the true gravel experience.
While specific parking spots are not detailed for each route, the rural nature of Authon-La-Plaine and surrounding villages like Dourdan and Richarville typically offer public parking options. It's advisable to check local parking availability in the starting towns of your chosen route, such as Dourdan - La Forêt or Richarville.
Authon-La-Plaine is a small, semi-rural commune. For more amenities like cafes, restaurants, or shops, you might find more options in nearby larger towns such as Dourdan, which is often a starting or passing point for several routes. It's recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer rides.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene rural landscapes, the quietness of the routes away from traffic, and the diverse terrain that provides an authentic gravel biking adventure through agricultural plains and near forested areas.


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