The best traffic-free bike rides around Barrage Du Crescent
4.2
(40)
329
riders
47
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent are situated within the Morvan Regional Natural Park, offering a blend of natural beauty and varied terrain. The area is characterized by mystical forests, green hills, and crystal-clear rivers, providing scenic routes. Lac du Crescent, a 138-hectare artificial lake, is a central feature, with its surroundings remaining largely wild with pastures and forests. The Cure and Chalaux rivers feed the lake and contribute to the area's scenic beauty, with routes following their courses and generally moderate elevation changes.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, an 8.9 miles (14.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the distinctive crescent-shaped lake and the historic Barrage du Crescent.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lake Crescent – Col de Marigny loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, a difficult 15.6 miles (25.1 km) path. This route ventures into the broader Morvan region, providing varied scenery through forests and green hills.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Crescent Dam loop from Chézelles, a 5.9 miles (9.5 km) trail leading through the area surrounding the dam, often completed in about 39 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Barrage Du Crescent is defined by the Morvan Regional Natural Park's forests, the serene Lac du Crescent, and the valleys of the Cure and Chalaux rivers. The network offers options for moderate to more challenging rides, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Barrage Du Crescent are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Barrage Du Crescent's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
7
riders
14.4km
01:03
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
9.49km
00:39
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
20
riders
39.7km
03:43
960m
960m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
6
riders
26.7km
02:18
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
36.8km
03:22
860m
860m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Barrage Du Crescent
Tips from the Community
Crescent Lake owes its name to its crescent shape. It is popular with local fishermen and also with swimmers who can visit its beach to cool off. Camping is also permitted. This lake, with its exceptionally bucolic setting, was chosen as the location in 2015 by Michel Gondry for filming his movie Microbe and Gazoil.
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There is no possibility of touring the lake by mountain bike along the banks, but rather by taking the road. However, check that the road that passes over the dam is open (temporarily closed until June 25, 2025 for us!).
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A pleasant stop near the Crescent, with a slight detour from the GR Telephone 07 49 26 22 70
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Very dedicated owner who is restoring the old mill on a voluntary basis and at the same time uses it as a place to stroll and relax.
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The second part of the village's name comes from the large number of empty stone tombs placed in the cemetery surrounding the church. The church is the central location of the village, next to the mayor and not far from a mini-market and a few shops.
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The Crescent Dam was built between 1929 and 1932. A gravity dam, it is 330 meters long and 37 meters high. Its width at the base is 24 meters and at the crest 3.5 meters. It was built on the initiative of SA Compagnie HydroElectrique de la Cure and was owned by the City of Paris until 1946. The dam was built to regulate the waters of the Yonne and Seine rivers and thus prevent flooding in Paris, while also producing electricity. More than 165 hectares of cultivated land, hamlets, mills, and paths were flooded to allow the creation of the reservoir (maximum depth of 40 meters). It occupies four municipalities and two departments, and is fed by the Cure and Chalaux rivers. The structure was partly financed by war reparations owed by Germany to France after the First World War. This is why much of the dam's mechanisms are German-made. The road across it is narrow and only allows passage for one vehicle. Fortunately, there is very little traffic.
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Straddling the departments of Nièvre and Yonne, with an area of 138 ha, Lac du Crescent owes its name to its "crescent" shape. This lake is formed by a hydroelectric dam built in 1930 and financed as German war damage linked to the 1st World War. The dam is 330 m long, 37 m high and the capacity of the lake is 14 million m3. The Crescent reservoir is fed by the most famous trout rivers in the Morvan: the Cure and the Chalaux. It is therefore a good fishing spot, like all the neighboring lakes of the Morvan, but a swimming area has also been set up on the side of the Yonne in the town of Chastellux sur Cure.
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A mountain pass has the distinction of being located in the commune of Marigny-l'église. It offers beautiful panoramic views of the verdant Morvan countryside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available around Barrage Du Crescent?
There are over 45 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find routes ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for everyone looking for a peaceful ride.
Are there family-friendly no traffic cycling routes near Barrage Du Crescent?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. While specific 'easy' routes are available, many of the no traffic paths around Lac du Crescent are relatively gentle. For a moderate option that offers scenic views without heavy traffic, consider the Crescent Dam loop from Chézelles, which is just under 10 km.
What kind of road surface can I expect on the no traffic touring cycling routes?
The no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent primarily feature well-maintained roads and dedicated paths suitable for touring bicycles. You can expect smooth surfaces, making for a comfortable and enjoyable ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Morvan Regional Natural Park.
What landmarks or viewpoints can I expect to see on these no traffic cycling routes?
Many routes offer stunning views of the Lac du Crescent and the historic Barrage du Crescent itself. You might also pass through charming villages like Marigny-l'Église and have the opportunity to see historical sites such as the Château de Chastellux. The natural beauty of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, with its forests and green hills, is a constant backdrop.
Are there any circular no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent?
Absolutely! Many of the no traffic routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, which provides excellent views of the lake and dam over its 14 km distance.
When is the best time of year to enjoy no traffic touring cycling around Barrage Du Crescent?
The best time to visit for touring cycling is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage.
How challenging are the no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent?
The routes vary in difficulty. While some are moderate with gentle elevation changes, others can be quite challenging, featuring significant climbs. For example, the Lake Crescent – Col de Marigny loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure is rated as difficult, covering over 25 km with substantial elevation gain. Always check the route details for specific elevation profiles.
Where can I park to access the no traffic cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent?
Parking is generally available at various points around Lac du Crescent and near the Barrage du Crescent itself. Many villages in the vicinity, such as Chastellux-sur-Cure or Chézelles, also offer parking facilities, providing convenient starting points for your cycling adventures.
Are dogs allowed on the no traffic touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent?
While the Morvan Regional Natural Park is generally dog-friendly, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas where wildlife might be present or near livestock. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and can keep pace with your cycling, and always carry water for them.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Barrage Du Crescent?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.36 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free nature of the routes, the stunning views of Lac du Crescent, and the immersive experience of cycling through the beautiful Morvan Regional Natural Park. The blend of natural beauty and historical sites is frequently highlighted.
Are there any cafes or restaurants near the no traffic cycling routes for a break?
Yes, you'll find charming villages like Marigny-l'Église and Quarré-les-Tombes in the wider region, which offer opportunities for breaks, refreshments, and local cuisine. It's advisable to plan your route to include these stops or carry sufficient provisions, especially on longer rides, as amenities might be spread out.
Most popular routes around Barrage Du Crescent
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