The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-André-De-Messei
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2,087
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120
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No traffic road cycling routes around Saint-André-De-Messei are set within the "La Suisse Normande" region, characterized by its rolling hills and diverse landscapes. The area features eroded granite hills and picturesque countryside, providing varied terrain for cyclists. River valleys, carved by the Orne, Noireau, and La Varenne, offer tranquil stretches and dynamic elevations. The region's extensive forests and bocage landscape create a lush, green backdrop for cycling.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Saint-André-De-Messei
- The most popular no traffic…
Last updated: November 5, 2026
13
riders
51.4km
02:11
320m
320m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
63.5km
02:48
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
84.8km
03:53
790m
790m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
Moderate road ride. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Saint-André-De-Messei
Tips from the Community
“Death gladly strides through the realm of joy, Gladly he presses his hand upon flowery brows. In ashes tomorrow and torn garments, Head bowed, joy's memory becomes our reproach and pain. Funeral processions follow our games; Saturnalia can be our cradle, Woe is us! only of dirges!” Text: Victor Hugo, (1802 – 1885): “Ode sur la mort du duc de Berry” (1820)
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An artificial pool situated in a wild and beautiful landscape, surrounded by forests. Supervised swimming is possible.
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Nice little cafe/epicerie in centre of town, open on Sunday (in August at least)
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Marsh Birdwatching
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There was already a church in Bellou-en-Houlme in 1053, when the building was donated by Guillaume de la Ferté-Macé to the Abbey of Saint-Julien in Tours. The bell tower-porch appears to be of Romanesque origin, having been built in the 11th century and then remodeled in the 12th century. Several architectural elements bear witness to this: "the semicircular arches, the small round interior door above the gallery, the narrow openings of the bell tower, the modillions bordering the dripstone" recall the 11th century, while "the pointed arches which are inscribed in the semicircular arches and especially the underside of the tower where the tore-shaped arcades intersect, each ending in a abacus" (Le Pays Bas-Normand, 1962 n°2) show that the tower was modified at the end of the 12th century. The rest of the building was largely transformed during the first half of the 18th century, as indicated by the date 1718 inscribed on the lintel of the door of the south arm of the transept and that of 1749, inscribed on the lintel of one of the south bays of the chevet. The church was originally surrounded by a cemetery, transferred outside the town in 1840.
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This church was built in the 16th century. It was remodeled and enlarged starting in 1850 (with the construction of chapels, the choir, and the sacristy). The Heritage Foundation organized a fundraiser for the restoration of the church: the purpose of the fundraiser is to restore the exterior of the church (stained glass windows and bell tower), as well as the interior (altarpiece, master paintings, baptismal font, fixing the pews to the floor, Stations of the Cross). The cost of this work is estimated at approximately €70,000. February 9, 2022: Renovation work on the church building completed, carried out by the Beauvain History and Heritage Association (restoration of the altarpieces, stained glass windows, baptismal font, as well as the roof, bell tower, clock mechanism, the Calvary on the Rock, the church door, and the heating system).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available around Saint-André-De-Messei?
There are over 120 no traffic road cycling routes around Saint-André-De-Messei, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy, short rides to challenging, longer tours through the scenic Norman countryside.
Are there easy no traffic road bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Saint-André-De-Messei offers several easy no traffic road cycling routes perfect for beginners or family outings. For example, the Notre-Dame Church – Col du signal de Charlemagne loop from Bellou-en-Houlme is an easy 15 km ride with gentle elevation, ideal for a relaxed experience.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no traffic road cycling routes?
The region, often called "La Suisse Normande," features diverse landscapes. You'll cycle through rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and scenic river valleys carved by the Orne, Noireau, and La Varenne rivers. Expect lush *bocage* (hedgerow) landscapes and extensive forest cover, providing a beautiful green backdrop for your ride.
Are there any circular no traffic road bike routes?
Many of the no traffic road cycling routes around Saint-André-De-Messei are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the moderate La Carneille – Chapelle de Longuenoe loop from Messei, which covers over 50 km.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest along the no traffic road cycling routes?
While cycling, you can discover several interesting spots. Consider visiting the historic Château de Flers with its beautiful park, or the charming village of La Carneille. The Andaines Forest also offers a serene natural setting for your ride.
Are there challenging no traffic road cycling routes for advanced riders?
Yes, advanced cyclists will find challenging routes with significant elevation gains. For instance, the Col du signal de Charlemagne – Chapelle de Longuenoe loop from Bellou-en-Houlme is a difficult 104 km route with over 1000 meters of ascent, offering a demanding experience through the hilly terrain of "La Suisse Normande."
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Saint-André-De-Messei?
The no traffic road cycling routes in Saint-André-De-Messei are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, the diverse and picturesque landscapes, and the engaging challenges provided by the rolling hills.
Where can I find parking for these no traffic road cycling routes?
Parking is generally available in and around the villages that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Messei, Bellou-en-Houlme, or La Ferrière-aux-Étangs. Many routes are accessible from these towns, offering convenient places to leave your vehicle before heading out.
Are there any long-distance cycling paths that pass through the area?
Yes, the renowned "La Vélo Francette" route traverses the area, utilizing greenways and charming country roads. This route offers 360-degree views of the quintessential Normandy countryside as it follows the meandering Orne, Noireau, and La Varenne Valleys, providing excellent options for longer, traffic-free rides.
What is the best time of year for no traffic road biking in Saint-André-De-Messei?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Saint-André-De-Messei, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the warmest hours. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Can I find amenities like cafes or pubs near the no traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, the villages and towns along and near the routes, such as Saint-André-De-Messei itself, La Ferrière-aux-Étangs, or nearby Domfront and Bagnoles de l'Orne, offer various amenities. You'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options to refuel and relax during or after your ride.
Are there any routes that explore historical sites?
Beyond natural beauty, the region has historical elements. While cycling, you might pass vestiges of the old Château de Messei or the old church calvary. The nearby town of Domfront, with its medieval castle, also offers a rich historical experience, accessible via some of the longer routes or as a separate visit.
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