Châtillon-en-Bazois and Château-Chinon Loop

This moderate-difficulty road cycling loop is approximately 67.26 km long with nearly 800 meters of elevation gain. It typically takes around 3 hours and 45 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and stops.

No, this route is classified as moderate and features significant elevation changes with consistent ascents and descents. The Morvan region is known for its demanding cycling, so it's best suited for cyclists with good to very good fitness levels who are prepared for challenging climbs.

The loop starts in Tenay en Bazois. You should be able to find parking within the village, though specific trailhead parking isn't detailed. Consider parking near the center of Tenay en Bazois to begin your ride.

You'll primarily be cycling on paved, often narrow roads through the hilly and forested terrain characteristic of the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan. Expect a continuous pattern of ascents and descents rather than flat stretches, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience.

The route offers beautiful landscapes and passes by several points of interest. You can see the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church and Washhouse of Tamnay-en-Bazois, the historic Château de Châtillon-en-Bazois, and the town of Moulins-Engilbert. You'll also encounter the Panorama de l'Eglise and climb Château-Chinon Hill, offering scenic views.

The Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan is beautiful in spring and autumn, offering pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can also be good, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Winter cycling might be challenging due to colder temperatures and possible icy conditions on the hilly roads.

Yes, while primarily its own loop, sections of this route briefly overlap with or run very close to other official paths. These include small portions of the Canal du Nivernais: Tannay - Decize (Tour de Bourgogne à vélo), Circuit VTT du Bazois, Tour du Morvan - Accès Château-Chinon, and various segments of the Voie Verte du Canal du Nivernais.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this route or generally within the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan. It is a regional natural park, meaning public access for activities like cycling is encouraged, but always respect local regulations and private property.

Road cycling routes are generally not considered dog-friendly, especially for dogs running alongside a bike, due to traffic and the sustained effort required. If you plan to bring a dog, it would need to be safely secured in a bike trailer or basket, which might add to the challenge on this hilly route.

Given the route's moderate difficulty and length, you should bring plenty of water, energy snacks, a repair kit for your racebike, and appropriate cycling gear. Helmets are highly recommended. A phone with GPS or a map is also advisable, as the Morvan's quiet roads can sometimes feel remote.

The route passes through several villages and towns, including Moulins-Engilbert and Château-Chinon, where you can find cafes, restaurants, and shops to refuel. However, services might be sparse between these larger settlements, so plan your stops accordingly.