The best traffic-free bike rides around Thennelières

There are over 100 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Thennelières, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. The region is particularly known for its extensive network of greenways, like the Vélovoie des Lacs de la Forêt d'Orient.

Yes, a significant portion of the routes, over 40, are classified as easy. The Lusigny-sur-Barse Spillway – Inlet canal bridge loop from Saint-Julien-les-Villas is an excellent easy option at 44.5 km. The Vélovoie des Lacs de la Forêt d'Orient, which connects Troyes to the great lakes, is largely flat and well-paved, making it ideal for a relaxed family ride.

For those seeking longer rides, the region offers several moderate to difficult routes. The Lusigny-sur-Barse Spillway – Montgueux Vineyard and Hill loop from Lusigny-sur-Barse covers over 70 km with some elevation gain, providing a good challenge. Many routes allow for circumnavigating the Lac d'Orient, offering distances around 60-70 km.

The routes primarily traverse the beautiful Orient Forest Regional Natural Park, offering diverse scenery. You'll cycle through serene forest sections, along the shores of the Great Lakes of Aube (Lac d'Orient, Lac Amance, and Lac du Temple), and across the gentle Champagne plains. The Vélovoie des Lacs provides picturesque views of the lake dams and access to beaches.

Absolutely! The routes often pass by or provide access to several points of interest. You can visit the Orient Lake itself, with its leisure bases and beaches. The Espace Faune animal park in Mesnil-Saint-Père is accessible via the greenway, offering wildlife viewing. The village of Thennelières also boasts the historic Église Saint-Léon II with its 16th-century stained-glass windows.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Moulin de Dosches loop from Pont-Sainte-Marie is a 42.5 km circular route. The

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes of the Orient Forest Regional Natural Park are at their most vibrant. Summer provides opportunities for combining cycling with swimming or water sports at the lakes.

Parking is generally available in the villages and towns located along the major cycling routes and near the lakes. Look for designated parking areas in places like Thennelières, Lusigny-sur-Barse, Mesnil-St-Père, Géraudot, or Courteranges, which serve as common starting points for many routes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.39 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained greenways, the peaceful, traffic-free environment, and the stunning natural beauty of the lakes and forests within the Orient Forest Regional Natural Park.

Yes, bike rental services, including electric bikes, are available in the region, particularly around the major lakes and in larger towns like Troyes. This makes it convenient for visitors who don't bring their own equipment to enjoy the traffic-free routes.

Many villages and leisure bases located along the Vélovoie des Lacs de la Forêt d'Orient and other routes offer cafes, restaurants, and picnic spots. You'll find opportunities to refuel and relax, especially around the popular lake areas like Lusigny-sur-Barse, Mesnil-St-Père, and Géraudot.