The best traffic-free bike rides around Aunay-En-Bazois
4.5
(191)
8,955
riders
55
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Aunay-En-Bazois are characterized by the gentle landscapes of Western Burgundy, primarily following the Canal du Nivernais. The region features a network of waterways, including the canal itself, which meanders through a mix of forests, open meadows, and rolling countryside. Cyclists encounter minimal gradients along the canal towpaths, making the area suitable for various fitness levels. Natural features like the Étang de Baye and historical engineering marvels such as the Collancelle Locks are prominent along…
Last updated: November 5, 2026
4.6
(14)
2,389
riders
59.2km
03:34
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
422
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.5
(13)
2,399
riders
60.3km
03:30
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.8
(18)
142
riders
40.4km
02:21
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.6
(10)
40
riders
40.6km
02:29
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Popular around Aunay-En-Bazois
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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Absolutely great village, perfect silence!
2
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in Chaumot, a very pleasant little port and refreshment bar on the canal.
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The site of lock 02 on the Seine slope, known as Crain lock at La Collancelle. There you will find 16 locks on a 3 km stretch of the Nivernais canal. It's a great place to watch boats pass by and see the lock in action.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in Aunay-En-Bazois?
Aunay-En-Bazois offers a wide selection of no traffic touring cycling routes, with over 50 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 15 easy and 30 moderate tours, ensuring a suitable ride for everyone.
Are the no traffic touring cycling routes in Aunay-En-Bazois suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Aunay-En-Bazois is an excellent destination for beginners and families. The region's primary draw, the Canal du Nivernais, provides exceptionally easy, safe, and mostly well-paved cycling paths with minimal gradients. Over 90% of the towpath is car-free, making it ideal for all fitness levels, including children.
What kind of landmarks and points of interest can I expect to see along these routes?
The no traffic routes in Aunay-En-Bazois offer a rich tapestry of sights. You can explore historical engineering marvels like the Collancelle Locks and "The Vaults of La Collancelle" along the Canal du Nivernais. Historic sites such as the Château de Châtillon-en-Bazois are also frequently encountered, offering a glimpse into the region's past. Additionally, you'll pass through charming villages and enjoy scenic views of lakes, forests, and meadows.
Are there circular no traffic touring cycling routes in Aunay-En-Bazois?
Yes, several circular routes are available for no traffic touring cycling. For example, you can enjoy the "View of Château de Chitry – Chitry‑les‑Mines Castle loop from Sardy-lès-Épiry" or the "Étang de Baye – Château de Châtillon-en-Bazois loop from Châtillon-en-Bazois", which offer varied scenery and return you to your starting point.
What is the best season for no traffic bike touring in Aunay-En-Bazois?
The best season for no traffic bike touring in Aunay-En-Bazois is generally from spring to early autumn. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes along the Canal du Nivernais are at their most vibrant, offering comfortable cycling conditions and beautiful scenery.
Can I bring my dog on the no traffic cycling routes in Aunay-En-Bazois?
Many of the no traffic cycling routes, particularly those along the Canal du Nivernais, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain, and carry enough water for both of you.
What is the typical terrain and elevation gain on these no traffic routes?
The no traffic routes in Aunay-En-Bazois, especially those following the Canal du Nivernais, are characterized by very gentle gradients and mostly flat terrain. This makes them accessible and enjoyable for cyclists of all abilities. For instance, the "View of Château de Chitry – Chitry‑les‑Mines Castle loop from Sardy-lès‑Épiry" has an elevation gain of less than 100 meters over 33 km.
Are there places to eat, drink, or find accommodation along the no traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the routes often pass through authentic villages like Châtillon-en-Bazois, where you can find local markets, cafes, and restaurants to refuel. Some villages may also offer accommodation options. The region is well-equipped with amenities for cyclists, enhancing the touring experience.
Where can I find parking near the no traffic cycling routes in Aunay-En-Bazois?
Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Châtillon-en-Bazois or near the Ancienne gare d'Aunay. Look for designated parking areas in these locations, especially near canal access points.
Is it possible to reach the no traffic cycling routes by public transport?
While the region is primarily accessed by car, some larger towns near the Canal du Nivernais may have limited public transport connections. For detailed information on public transport options to specific starting points, it's advisable to consult local transport schedules or regional tourism websites like France Vélo Tourisme or Burgundy Tourism.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no traffic routes in Aunay-En-Bazois?
The komoot community highly rates the no traffic touring cycling experience in Aunay-En-Bazois, with an average score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 190 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the serene, car-free paths along the Canal du Nivernais, the picturesque landscapes, and the gentle gradients that make for a relaxing and enjoyable ride through unspoiled nature.
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