The best traffic-free bike rides around Moraches
4.4
(191)
1,173
riders
50
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Moraches are primarily defined by the tranquil waterways of the Canal du Nivernais and the diverse terrain of the Morvan Regional Natural Park. The region features gentle gradients along canal towpaths, offering smooth greenways ideal for cycling without motorized vehicles. Beyond the canals, rolling hills and dense forests characterize the landscape, providing varied experiences for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Moraches
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is…
Last updated: October 22, 2026
4.8
(43)
206
riders
95.3km
05:32
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3.0
(1)
20
riders
70.3km
04:06
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.3
(3)
7
riders
34.7km
02:14
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.6
(5)
14
riders
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
30.6km
01:55
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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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
0
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Very nice cycle route along the canal with many sights.
2
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Delicious food and extremely friendly staff!
4
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Moraches?
There are around 40 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Moraches area. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels, ensuring options for different cycling preferences.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Moraches?
The no-traffic touring routes around Moraches are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquil environment of the Canal de Nivernais Towpath, the picturesque locks, and the charming villages encountered along the way. The car-free nature of these paths is a significant draw for a relaxed cycling experience.
Are there easy no-traffic touring routes suitable for beginners in Moraches?
Yes, Moraches offers several easy no-traffic touring routes perfect for beginners. These routes typically feature gentle gradients and smooth surfaces, ideal for a relaxed ride. An example is the Le Truck Food Truck Le Poteau loop from Chitry-les-Mines, which is 16 km long with minimal elevation gain.
Are the no-traffic touring routes around Moraches suitable for families?
Absolutely. The Canal du Nivernais, which forms the backbone of many no-traffic routes in the region, is renowned for its family-friendly nature. It's entirely devoted to pedestrians and cyclists, meaning no motorized vehicles, and features gentle gradients and a smooth greenway for over 90% of its length. This makes it a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on the no-traffic touring routes?
The no-traffic touring routes around Moraches traverse diverse and picturesque landscapes. You can expect to cycle through a bucolic atmosphere of ponds, forests, rivers, and meadows, particularly along the Canal du Nivernais. The scenery changes daily, offering sights like the Sardy lock ladder, the Collancelle arches, and the Saussois rocks. The nearby Morvan Regional Natural Park also offers rolling hills and dense forests.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the no-traffic touring routes?
Along the no-traffic touring routes, especially those following the Canal du Nivernais, you'll discover numerous points of interest. These include picturesque locks and lock-keeper's houses, charming villages like Clamecy and Auxerre, and historical sites. Notable attractions nearby include the 18th-century Château d'Arthel, La Motte Castle, and the serene La Bouille Pond.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring routes in Moraches?
Yes, there are several circular no-traffic touring routes available. For instance, the Canal du Nivernais – Canal de Nivernais Towpath loop from Guipy offers a longer, more challenging circular option, while the Collancelle Locks loop from Chitry-les-Mines provides a moderate circular ride focusing on a specific section of the canal.
What is the best time of year to cycle the no-traffic routes in Moraches?
The best time of year to cycle the no-traffic routes in Moraches is typically from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. The car-free nature of the routes makes them enjoyable even during peak tourist seasons, as you avoid road traffic.
Can I find places to eat or drink along the no-traffic routes?
Yes, the no-traffic routes, particularly those along the Canal du Nivernais, connect authentic villages and towns such as Decize, Châtillon-en-Bazois, Clamecy, and Auxerre. These places offer opportunities to explore local markets, historical heritage, and gourmet stops to sample regional specialties. You'll find cafes, restaurants, and shops to refuel.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic touring options in the Moraches area?
Yes, the Canal du Nivernais itself offers a significant long-distance no-traffic touring option. The full route stretches approximately 180 to 206 km, following the canal's towpath and small country roads. It's a dedicated greenway, providing an extended, car-free cycling experience through the heart of Burgundy-Franche-Comté.
Where can I park my car to access the no-traffic bike trails?
You can typically find parking in the charming villages and towns located along the Canal du Nivernais, such as Chitry-les-Mines, Guipy, or Marigny-sur-Yonne. These locations often serve as convenient starting points for the no-traffic routes, allowing you to easily access the car-free paths.
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