4.4
(237)
4,119
riders
77
rides
Touring cycling around Vitry-Laché is characterized by its gentle, rolling terrain, primarily following the serene waterways of the Canal de Nivernais and the tranquil shores of local ponds and lakes. The region offers a network of paths suitable for exploring the rural landscape, often featuring historical canal locks and peaceful countryside. The elevation changes are generally modest, making it an accessible area for various cycling abilities.
Last updated: October 9, 2026
4.6
(14)
2,387
riders
57.6km
03:18
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(24)
156
riders
34.8km
02:03
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(43)
206
riders
95.3km
05:32
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.2
(5)
19
riders
50.0km
03:03
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
20
riders
70.3km
04:06
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to build a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the drilling of "La Montagne" from La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official commissioning of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (especially stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France due to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
0
0
pleasant and shaded
0
0
Very nice cycle route along the canal with many sights.
2
0
Absolutely great village, perfect silence!
2
0
Beautiful little town with many medieval buildings. Definitely worth a visit
2
0
in Chaumot, a very pleasant little port and refreshment bar on the canal.
0
0
Yes, Vitry-Laché offers a good selection of easy touring cycling routes, with 21 options available. These routes typically feature gentle terrain and follow the serene waterways. For example, the Baye Pond – Étang de Baye loop from La Collancelle is a gentle 10.5-mile ride, and the Lake Baye – Baye Pond loop from La Collancelle is an even shorter 2.9-mile option.
While the region is known for its gentle terrain, there are 15 routes classified as difficult for those seeking more of a challenge. These routes might include longer distances or slightly more varied elevation changes compared to the canal-side paths. You can explore these options on komoot to find one that suits your fitness level.
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Vitry-Laché are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular choice is the Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from La Collancelle, which is 21.6 miles long. Another excellent circular option is the Chatillion – Canal loop from La Collancelle, covering 35.8 miles.
The touring cycling routes in Vitry-Laché are characterized by serene waterways, particularly along the Canal de Nivernais, and the tranquil shores of local ponds and lakes. You'll often pass historical canal locks, peaceful countryside, and rural landscapes. The region's modest elevation changes ensure a pleasant ride through picturesque settings.
Along your touring cycling routes, you can explore several interesting landmarks. The historic Collancelle Locks are a prominent feature of the Canal de Nivernais. You might also encounter the scenic Baye Pond, or historical sites like La Chapelle St Elymon. For those interested in history, the region also features several castles, such as Château d'Arthel.
There are over 70 touring cycling routes available around Vitry-Laché, offering a wide variety of distances and difficulty levels to suit different preferences and abilities.
The touring cycling routes in Vitry-Laché are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 180 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful canal-side paths, the tranquil lake loops, and the overall accessibility of the routes due to the gentle terrain. Over 4,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore this region.
Absolutely. The Canal de Nivernais is a central feature of touring cycling in Vitry-Laché. The Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from La Collancelle is a prime example, directly following the canal and passing its notable locks. Another excellent option is the Canal de Nivernais – Collancelle Locks loop from La Collancelle, offering a different perspective of the canal's beauty.
Given the region's gentle terrain and focus on waterways, spring and autumn are generally ideal for touring cycling in Vitry-Laché. The weather is typically mild, and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant or colorful. Summer can also be pleasant, especially along shaded canal paths, but it's always wise to check local forecasts.
Yes, many routes pass through or near small towns and villages where you can find amenities. For instance, the Town of Corbigny is a place where you might find cafes or other services. It's always a good idea to plan your route and check for available services in advance, especially in rural areas.
The terrain around Vitry-Laché is primarily gentle and rolling, making it very accessible for touring cyclists. Routes largely follow flat canal paths, tranquil lake shores, and quiet rural roads. Elevation changes are generally modest, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable ride for most abilities.


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