The best traffic-free bike rides around Champs-Sur-Yonne
3.7
(3)
41
riders
20
rides
Gravel biking around Champs-Sur-Yonne offers diverse landscapes across the Yonne department in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. The region is characterized by the picturesque Yonne River Valley, rolling hills, and extensive vineyards, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Wooded areas and quiet country roads offer a mix of surfaces ideal for gravel biking, while routes along the Nivernais Canal provide flat and scenic options. The area also features alluvial soil and local limestones, contributing to its unique natural features.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Champs-Sur-Yonne
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Paul Bert Bridge – The Yonne and the Canal du Nivernais loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais, a 45.9 miles (73.9 km) trail that takes 5 hours 24 minutes to complete. This difficult route explores the Yonne River and the historic Canal du Nivernais.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Paul Bert Bridge – View of Vaux Village loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais, a difficult 32.6 miles (52.5 km) path. This route offers views of Vaux Village and the surrounding countryside.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Pont sur Yonne – Belombre Castle loop from Vincelles, a 26.7 miles (43.1 km) trail leading through the area around Pont sur Yonne and Belombre Castle, often completed in about 2 hours 46 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Champs-Sur-Yonne is defined by the Yonne River Valley, rolling hills, and the Nivernais Canal. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult ability levels.
- The guide includes highly-rated routes that showcase the best of the region's landscape. More than 30 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Champs-Sur-Yonne's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 6, 2026
3.0
(1)
3
riders
33.0km
02:19
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
8
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3.0
(1)
5
riders
43.1km
02:47
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
6
riders
103km
06:18
1,080m
1,080m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Popular around Champs-Sur-Yonne
Tips from the Community
In Escolives-Sainte-Camille lies the Chateau de Belombre. The origins of this château on the Yonne date back to the early 16th century. The current château was completed by the renovation of the former manor house in the 17th century.
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An unmissable viewpoint of our region!
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Vaux was given to the Abbey of St-Julien d’Auxerre from its foundation in the 7th century. From the bridge you have a beautiful view of the village.
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An old and massive stone bridge over the Yonne. It is cycleable and sees a lot of car and truck use, so be careful.
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This wash house in Chevannes once served as a place to rinse washed laundry (several hundred years ago). The whole town used it at the time. It is now more of a historical monument and is no longer in use.
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Flat, smooth cycle path along the Yonne. From there if you look back you will see a railway bridge. A nice place for a break or a picnic.
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The Sainte-Reine chapel seems to have been started with the apse towards the end of the 15th century. and built in several stages until the beginning of the 17th century. On either side of the entrance arch to the apse and on the south wall of the nave, commemorative plaques recall the role of the d'Avigneau family, notably Maurice Marie d'Avigneau who restored the chapel and returned it to worship in 1952.
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The stronghold of Belombre was the seat of part of the lordship of Escolives held, in 1507, by the lieutenant general of Auxerre, Blanchet David. Marie David brought it to Jacques de Meung dit de La Ferté, who died on June 4, 1589, massacred by the Leaguers of Auxerre. Madeleine de La Ferté Meung, her granddaughter, transmitted Bellombre to the La Bussière family and Catherine de La Bussière brought it to the Girard d'Azy family. The children of Paul de Girard sold it, around 1656, to François de Chastellux, who ceded this first half of Escolives in 1670, to Robert Chaponnel, Receiver General of Finances. He died on October 28, 1678 without issue, while he was undertaking the reconstruction of the castle. Anne Robineau, receiver general of Finances in Provence, who carried out the project developed by Chaponnel and built a new castle on the land surrounded by a moat on the site of the medieval manor. In 1709, Louis Gayot, buyer, united the two shares of the land of Escolives before selling the Château de Bélombre in November 1726, to Joseph Le Muet, King's attorney in the bailiwick of Auxerre. Rosalie Le Muet married in 1804, Jean Jacques Claude Baudenet d'Annoux. Their son, Louis-Hugues, who feared the dangerous invasions of the waters of the Yonne, decided to demolish the castle which he rebuilt on vast basements around 1870. The estate is located on the left bank of the canal. It is a large single-story building. Corner chains and harped stone legs support the entablature and an attic floor in the overhang of the broken roof. The moat and the stone bridge decorated with elegant 18th century ironwork have been preserved. (1) MH protected elements: facades and roofs; water pit ; the pillars of the entrance gate; the vestibule and the interior staircase with its wrought iron banister: registration by decree of December 6, 1977. The facades and roofs of the outbuildings; the terrace located to the southwest of the castle and the sleeping bridge; the bridge thrown over the moat, in front of the northeast facade of the castle; the gardens surrounding the castle; the perspective alley and the double water alley: registration by decree of June 7, 1993 The Chateau de Belombre 89290 Escolives-Sainte-Camille, private property, cannot be visited.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Champs-Sur-Yonne?
There are 16 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Champs-Sur-Yonne listed in this guide. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy rides along the river to more challenging loops through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Yonne region.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic gravel routes?
The no-traffic gravel routes around Champs-Sur-Yonne offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find serene paths along the Yonne River Valley and the Nivernais Canal, which are generally flat. Other routes venture into rolling hills, wooded areas, and quiet country roads, providing varied surfaces ideal for gravel biking. The region's alluvial soil and local limestones contribute to the unique character of the trails.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, there is one easy no-traffic gravel route suitable for beginners. The Gurgy diversion lock – Auxerre Cathedral loop from Auxerre is a great option, offering a gentle ride with minimal elevation gain, perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed outing.
Can I find circular no-traffic gravel bike routes in the area?
Absolutely! Many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Champs-Sur-Yonne are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the challenging Paul Bert Bridge – The Yonne and the Canal du Nivernais loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais offers a comprehensive circular experience, combining river views with canal paths.
What natural features can I explore along the no-traffic gravel trails?
The no-traffic gravel trails in this region are rich in natural beauty. You can cycle along the picturesque Yonne River Valley, explore tranquil paths beside the Nivernais Canal, and ride through lush wooded areas and scenic vineyards. To the north of Champs-Sur-Yonne, you might also discover peaceful ponds and poplar groves along the towpath, offering a serene cycling experience.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along these routes?
Yes, several routes pass by or are close to interesting historical landmarks. For example, the Gurgy diversion lock – Auxerre Cathedral loop from Auxerre brings you near the impressive Saint-Étienne Cathedral of Auxerre. Other highlights in the vicinity include the Paul Bert Bridge and the historic Abbaye Saint-Germain.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic gravel biking in Champs-Sur-Yonne?
The Yonne department, including Champs-Sur-Yonne, offers an ideal destination for gravel biking throughout much of the year due to its temperate climate. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially along shaded river paths, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter rides are possible on quiet trails, but conditions may vary.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes?
For families, the easier sections along the Nivernais Canal or the Yonne River offer flat and scenic experiences, perfect for a relaxed ride. The Gurgy diversion lock – Auxerre Cathedral loop from Auxerre is particularly suitable due to its easy difficulty grade and relatively short distance.
Where can I find parking for these gravel bike trails?
Many routes, especially those starting from larger towns like Auxerre, will have designated parking areas. For routes originating directly from Champs-Sur-Yonne, local parking will be available within the commune. It's advisable to check the specific tour details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information.
Can I access these no-traffic gravel trails using public transport?
Champs-Sur-Yonne is a few minutes from Auxerre, which is well-connected by public transport, including train services. From Auxerre, you can often cycle to the starting points of many routes, or use local bus services that might accommodate bikes, depending on the operator and time of day. Always check local public transport schedules and bike policies in advance.
What are some longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Experienced gravel bikers looking for a challenge will find several difficult routes. The Paul Bert Bridge – Pont sur Yonne loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais is a demanding option, covering over 100 km with significant elevation gain, offering a comprehensive exploration of the region's diverse landscapes.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Champs-Sur-Yonne?
While specific reviews are limited, the komoot community generally praises the Yonne region for its diverse and quiet routes. Riders often highlight the peacefulness of the river valleys, the scenic beauty of the vineyards and rolling hills, and the opportunity to explore charming French countryside away from traffic.
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