The best MTB trails around Onay

Onay offers a network of nearly 30 mountain bike trails, catering to various skill levels. These routes explore the region's rolling hills, rural paths, and historical landmarks.

The mountain bike trails around Onay are predominantly easy to moderate. There are 10 easy routes and 19 moderate routes, making the area accessible for a wide range of riders. There are no officially designated difficult trails in this specific guide.

Yes, Onay has several easy routes suitable for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Charcenne Church loop from Charcenne, which is 12.5 miles (20 km) long and takes about 1 hour 27 minutes to complete through rural landscapes. Another easy route is the Charcenne – Charcenne Church loop from Gy.

Mountain biking around Onay features a landscape characterized by rolling hills and river valleys. You'll find a mix of rural trails, often passing through agricultural areas and small woodlands. Expect moderate climbs and descents, providing diverse terrain for your ride.

Many of the mountain bike routes in Onay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the popular Shelter on the Way of St. James. – Historic Center of Marnay loop from Charcenne and the Gy Castle – Vincent Cheviet vineyard loop from Gy are both circular routes.

The trails often pass through scenic rural areas and near historical points of interest. Depending on your chosen route, you might encounter landmarks such as the Pont de Pierre of Gray, the Apremont Dam, or the Mantoche Castle. The region also features charming villages like Charcenne.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the mix of rural paths and woodlands, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and charming villages along the routes.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for mountain biking in Onay, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter riding is possible, but trails may be muddy or icy, and daylight hours are shorter.

Generally, no specific permits are required for mountain biking on the public trails around Onay. However, it's always good practice to respect private property, stay on marked trails, and be mindful of local regulations, especially when passing through agricultural land.

Yes, for riders looking for longer distances, the Savoyeux Tunnel – Savoyeux Tunnel loop from Gray offers a substantial 32.2 miles (51.8 km) ride. Another good option is the Gy Castle – Vincent Cheviet vineyard loop from Gy, which covers 25.2 miles (40.6 km) and includes significant elevation gain.

As the trails often pass through woodlands and rural agricultural areas, there's a good chance of encountering local wildlife. Keep an eye out for various bird species, small mammals, and deer, especially during quieter times of the day like early morning or late afternoon. Always ride responsibly and respect their natural habitat.