The best traffic-free bike rides around Barrage Du Bourdon
4.4
(37)
164
riders
20
rides
Touring cycling around Barrage Du Bourdon offers a picturesque setting in the heart of Burgundy's Puisaye-Forterre region. The landscape is characterized by the large artificial Lac du Bourdon, surrounded by lush greenery and extensive forests. Cyclists can navigate well-suited terrain, with many routes featuring paved surfaces and gentle elevation changes. The impressive dam itself, measuring 350 meters, also provides a unique cycling experience across its top.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Bourdon
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Lac du Bourdon Beach – Saint-Fargeau Castle loop from Lac du Bourdon, a 7.8 miles (12.5 km) trail that takes 46 minutes to complete, offering views of the lake and a nearby castle.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lac du Bourdon Beach – Château de Ratilly loop from Lac du Bourdon, a moderate 14.9 miles (24.1 km) path, leading through varied terrain with an elevation gain of over 800 feet (245 meters).
- Local touring cyclists also love the Lac du Bourdon – Lac du Bourdon Beach loop from Les Midoux, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail leading through forested areas and alongside the lake, often completed in about 37 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Barrage Du Bourdon is defined by lakeside paths, dense woodlands, and the impressive dam structure. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes with greater elevation.
- The routes in Barrage Du Bourdon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 150 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Barrage Du Bourdon's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4.3
(4)
17
riders
10.8km
00:47
70m
70m
Hard bike ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(4)
16
riders
12.3km
00:46
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
4
riders
40.7km
02:32
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
24.1km
01:34
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(5)
16
riders
10.6km
00:39
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Barrage Du Bourdon
Tips from the Community
The Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul in Moutiers-en-Puisaye (Burgundy, France) is an 11th-century Romanesque church, world-renowned for its exceptional medieval murals. These frescoes have been restored and are among the most remarkable in the region. The church houses over [missing number] stunning frescoes, including scenes from the life of Christ and depictions of saints. The building is one of the oldest in the area (over 1,000 years old) and features a 13th-century portal. Due to its unique artworks, the structure has been classified as a historical monument since 1862. This church is a must-see if you are in the area.
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This is a part of the lake with a dam that you cycle over
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Tours and events: https://www.chateau-de-st-fargeau.com
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A passage in the middle of the lake, surprising. A bit sporty, you have to carry the bike. But it connects the two shores of the lake.
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A true medieval fortress built on 11th century foundations, completed in the 13th century, then partly transformed during the Renaissance. The four corner towers, the two entrance towers defending the drawbridge, the moat and the dovecote surround the charming square interior courtyard. Since 1951, the pottery workshop, exhibitions, shows and courses have made Ratilly a leading art center. Hours: From 03/30/24 to 06/30/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Closed on: Friday From 07/01/23 to 08/31/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. From 01/09/24 to 10/11/24 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. - from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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Great location to setup your minimalist bikepacking setup.
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Behind the road is the large Camping Municipal. There is a hotel with a bistro on the beach in front of the street. The other stands for crepes, fries, etc. were still closed in June. Even further west is a large picnic area in the forest. The beach is also monitored during the summer holiday season. You can rent treet boats. The water is not too cold. A beautiful, quiet, large lake for swimming.
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The well-preserved ensemble from the second half of the 13th century is a four-wing structure around an almost square inner courtyard, which is surrounded at the corners by four mighty round towers and is accessed on the south side via a portal flanked by similar towers. The buildings are surrounded all around by a now dry moat. Despite a variety of later structural measures, especially the post-medieval changes to the southern defensive buildings into homely refuges with open window fronts in the style of a castle, they have hardly lost any of the former fortified character of a castle complex. The historic castle is now a cultural center, a place where numerous concerts take place every summer and contemporary artists exhibit. In 2015 the facility had over 12,200 visitors. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Ratilly
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Barrage Du Bourdon?
There are 18 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Bourdon. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 5 easy, 10 moderate, and 3 difficult options.
Are there any easy, car-free touring cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, several easy, car-free routes are perfect for beginners. An excellent option is the Lac du Bourdon Beach – Saint-Fargeau Castle loop from Lac du Bourdon, which is about 12.5 km long with a gentle elevation gain of around 113 meters.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic cycling routes?
The routes around Barrage Du Bourdon generally feature paved surfaces, making them suitable for touring bikes. You'll find a mix of lakeside paths, forest roads, and sections that may pass through charming local villages. The terrain is mostly accessible, with some routes having moderate elevation changes.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring routes around the lake?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops around the lake, offering continuous scenic riding. For example, the Lac du Bourdon Beach – Lac du Bourdon loop from Lac du Bourdon is a popular circular option, covering approximately 10.8 km.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the routes?
Cyclists can enjoy the picturesque Lac du Bourdon itself, an artificial lake shaped like a horse. You'll also encounter lush greenery, forests, and the impressive Barrage du Bourdon dam, which you can cycle across. The region is known for its serene natural environment, perfect for wildlife spotting.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic routes for experienced touring cyclists?
For those seeking a longer challenge, consider the Lac du Bourdon Beach – Château de Ratilly loop from Lac du Bourdon. This moderate route spans about 24 km with an elevation gain of approximately 245 meters, offering a more extensive exploration of the area.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Barrage Du Bourdon?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 37 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, car-free environment, the beautiful lakeside scenery, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable touring cycling.
Are there places to eat or stay near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the area around Lac du Bourdon offers amenities for visitors. There are restaurants and an on-site hotel with a bistro near the beach. Additionally, a large, shaded municipal campsite is available near the lake, providing convenient accommodation for touring cyclists.
What is the best time of year to visit Barrage Du Bourdon for no-traffic touring cycling?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially if you wish to combine cycling with water activities, though it can be busier. The lake offers supervised swimming at the beach during July and August.
Can I access these routes using public transport, or is parking available?
While specific public transport links directly to the trailheads might be limited, the region is generally accessible by car. Parking facilities are typically available near popular starting points around the lake, such as at the Lac du Bourdon Beach area or near the dam, making it convenient for cyclists to bring their bikes.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites or castles?
Yes, some routes offer glimpses of the region's history. The Lac du Bourdon Beach – Saint-Fargeau Castle loop from Lac du Bourdon, for instance, takes you towards Saint-Fargeau, which is known for its impressive castle. Another route, the Lac du Bourdon Beach – Château de Ratilly loop from Lac du Bourdon, passes by the Château de Ratilly.
Most popular routes around Barrage Du Bourdon
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