The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Germain-Des-Prés
4.7
(3)
36
riders
4
rides
Gravel biking around Saint-Germain-Des-Prés offers access to a variety of landscapes beyond the urban center. While the district itself is known for its cultural history, it serves as a starting point for exploring extensive forest tracks, rolling hills, and canal paths in the broader Paris region. Riders can find routes through dense woodlands, along quiet waterways, and across open countryside, providing diverse terrain for off-road cycling. The surrounding areas feature a mix of natural and historical elements, with paths suitable…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.0
(1)
11
riders
38.0km
02:05
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
33.6km
02:40
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
50.8km
02:52
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
78.4km
04:31
720m
720m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Saint-Germain-Des-Prés
Tips from the Community
The Excideuil hospital building, designed in reinforced concrete, is a hospital complex built from 1937, with an interruption during the war, then resumed in 1949. It comprises several buildings including a main hospital in the shape of a comb with a curved plan, with seven levels adapted to the slope of the land, allowing differentiated entrances. The architecture strictly separates the services by floor (medicine, surgery, children, etc.) with rooms open on the south facade to let in light. The building also has a central glass rotunda housing the reception hall and operating rooms, as well as an administrative building with a clock tower. The complex is located in a large sloping park overlooking the town of Excideuil
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An information panel describes the special features of the bell tower, which was built in the style of a campanile, structurally separate from the church on a rocky outcrop. Although its exact construction date is unknown, it is said to be the undisputed oldest bell tower in France.
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Boschaud Abbey 'very beautiful place' steeped in history and for picnics
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Boschaud Abbey 🏰 A very beautiful place steeped in history
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Why Visit Thiviers? For its gastronomy: Thiviers is a paradise for gourmets. With its fat markets, truffles and local products, the city offers an authentic and unique culinary experience. For its historical heritage: Between its Gothic church and its museums, Thiviers allows you to delve into the history of Périgord and discover the Périgord way of life. For the surrounding nature: Located in the Périgord Vert, the city is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside, whether through hikes or bike rides. Thiviers is an ideal destination for those looking to discover the gastronomic and natural heritage of Périgord, while enjoying the charm of an authentic and welcoming small town.
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Nature and hiking: Green environment: Surrounded by hills and forests, Thiviers is the ideal starting point for hikes in the Périgord Vert. Nature lovers can take advantage of the marked trails to discover the local flora and fauna. The Thiviers-Saint-Pardoux greenway: This old railway line transformed into a cycle path allows you to explore the surrounding countryside in complete tranquility, whether on foot or by bike. Market and local traditions: Weekly market: The Thiviers market is a meeting place for locals and visitors. You can find local products, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and of course, Périgord specialties such as foie gras and duck confit. Festivals and festivals: Thiviers regularly organizes cultural and gastronomic events, such as the Foire du Gras, which celebrates local products, or even music and traditional arts festivals. Vaucocour Castle: 18th century building: Located not far from the city, this castle, surrounded by a magnificent park, is a beautiful example of 18th century architecture. It is possible to visit its gardens and learn more about local history.
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Thiviers, located in the Dordogne, is a charming little town in the Périgord Vert, renowned for its rich historical and gastronomic heritage. Nicknamed the "capital of foie gras and truffles", Thiviers is a destination of choice for lovers of good food and history buffs. Surrounded by green landscapes, this town offers a beautiful immersion in the culture and traditions of the Périgord. Points of Interest in Thiviers: Historical Heritage: Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church: This Gothic church, dating from the 13th century, is one of the most important monuments in Thiviers. It impresses with its sober and elegant architecture, with its square bell tower and colorful stained glass windows. Museum of earthenware and tableware: Located in a private mansion, this museum houses a beautiful collection of old earthenware and tableware objects, testifying to the importance of culinary traditions in Périgord. Local gastronomy: Capital of foie gras: Thiviers is world-renowned for its foie gras production. Every year, foie gras markets attract many visitors, and the city regularly organizes gastronomic events showcasing this emblematic product. Périgord truffles: In addition to foie gras, Thiviers is also famous for its truffles, these precious mushrooms that make the region famous. The truffle market in winter is an unmissable event for gourmets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are featured in this guide around Saint-Germain-Des-Prés?
This guide features 5 carefully selected routes that offer traffic-free gravel biking experiences. These routes are located in the broader region, providing excellent options for escaping the city.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these gravel bike trails?
The trails in this guide offer a mix of terrain, primarily focusing on forest tracks, quiet country roads, and dedicated greenways. You'll find routes like the Start of the Thiviers Greenway – Always along the route loop from Thiviers which utilizes a greenway, ensuring a smooth, traffic-free experience. Other routes, such as the Roches Enchantées – Abbaye Saint-Pierre-ès-Liens loop from Excideuil, will take you through more varied landscapes with some elevation.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging ride, this guide includes several difficult routes. For example, the Thiviers Old Town – Start of the Thiviers Greenway loop from Thiviers is rated as difficult, covering 62 km with significant elevation gain. Similarly, the Start of the Thiviers Greenway – St jean de Cole loop from Thiviers offers another demanding option at 51 km.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about these routes?
The routes in this guide are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Riders often praise the tranquility of the greenways and forest paths, the absence of traffic, and the scenic beauty of the countryside, making for a truly immersive outdoor experience away from urban bustle.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
All the gravel bike routes featured in this guide are circular loops, designed for convenience. You can start and end your ride in the same location, such as the Savignac les églises – La Loue / Coulaures loop from Savignac-les-Églises, which is a moderate 28.9 km loop.
What kind of attractions or points of interest can I find along these routes?
While the focus is on natural, traffic-free riding, some routes pass by charming settlements and historical points. For instance, the Thiviers Old Town – Start of the Thiviers Greenway loop from Thiviers route includes the historic Thiviers Old Town. You might also encounter other local highlights like La Loue / Coulaures or Corgnac-sur-l'Isle, offering glimpses into the region's character.
What is the typical distance and elevation for the routes in this guide?
The routes vary in length and elevation to suit different preferences. Distances range from approximately 29 km, like the Savignac les églises – La Loue / Coulaures loop from Savignac-les-Églises with 277m of ascent, up to 62 km for the more challenging Thiviers Old Town – Start of the Thiviers Greenway loop from Thiviers, which features around 680m of climbing.
Are there any specific routes that are particularly scenic?
Many of the routes offer beautiful scenery, especially those that follow greenways or pass through forested areas. The Start of the Thiviers Greenway – Always along the route loop from Thiviers is known for its picturesque, traffic-free path, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.
How can I access these gravel bike trailheads from Saint-Germain-Des-Prés?
While Saint-Germain-Des-Prés itself is urban, these gravel routes are located further afield in the broader region. You would typically need to use public transport or drive to reach the starting points of these trails, which are situated in areas like Thiviers, Excideuil, or Savignac-les-Églises. Planning your transport to these specific trailheads is recommended.
Are there any hidden gem gravel trails that are particularly quiet?
All routes in this guide are selected for their 'no traffic' characteristic, ensuring a quiet and peaceful ride. The greenway sections, such as those found on the Start of the Thiviers Greenway – Always along the route loop from Thiviers, are particularly renowned for their tranquility and absence of vehicular traffic, offering a true escape into nature.
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