The best cycling routes around Chazilly

There are over 120 touring cycling routes around Chazilly, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. Approximately 30 of these routes are considered easy, while nearly 60 are moderate, and around 30 are more challenging.

The region around Chazilly offers a diverse topography. You can expect everything from gentle, undulating valleys and long, flat plains, particularly along the Burgundy Canal, to more challenging routes with steeper hills and wooded sections in areas like the Ouche Valley. The landscape includes verdant countrysides, forests, and agricultural lands, including vineyards.

Yes, many routes are ideal for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. The extensive network of rural, quiet cycle paths along the Burgundy Canal (Voie Verte and towpaths) are largely free from car traffic and offer a leisurely pace. An example of an easy route is the Canal Lock – Ouche Bridge loop from Châteauneuf, which follows the canal.

The region is rich in historical and natural attractions. You can cycle to the picturesque hilltop town of Châteauneuf-en-Auxois, featuring a well-preserved 12th-century château. Along the Burgundy Canal, you'll find the impressive Voûte de Pouilly (canal tunnel) and various charming villages. Lac de Panthier, connected to the canal, also provides a natural stop.

Yes, many routes around Chazilly are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For instance, the Ouche Bridge – Barbirey Castle and Gardens loop from Châteauneuf is a popular circular route offering views of the Ouche Valley and historical sites.

Absolutely. The Burgundy Canal's extensive network of quiet, car-free cycle paths (Voie Verte and towpaths) makes it ideal for families with children. These routes allow cyclists of all ages to experience the region's charm at a leisurely pace.

The touring cycling routes around Chazilly are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the serene natural settings, the well-maintained canal-side paths, and the opportunity to combine cycling with visits to significant historical landmarks like Châteauneuf-en-Auxois.

The best time to cycle in Burgundy, including around Chazilly, is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the countryside is at its most vibrant, with vineyards and agricultural lands in full bloom or harvest. Summer offers warm days, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures ideal for longer rides.

Given the region's well-developed cycling tourism infrastructure, parking is generally available in and around key starting points for routes, such as villages along the Burgundy Canal or near popular attractions like Châteauneuf-en-Auxois. It's advisable to check specific village information for designated parking areas.

Yes, the region is dotted with charming villages and towns, especially along the Burgundy Canal, where you can find cafes, pubs, and restaurants. These establishments often cater to cyclists, offering opportunities to refuel and relax during your tour. Larger towns like Pouilly-en-Auxois also provide more options.

While many routes are gentle, the region does offer more challenging options with greater elevation changes. For example, the Grand-Pré Lock – Burgundy Canal loop from Châteauneuf, while partly along the canal, includes a notable elevation gain, making it a moderate challenge. Routes venturing into the Ouche Valley's wooded sections can also present steeper inclines.

Routes vary significantly. Easy routes, particularly along the canal, might cover 20-35 km with minimal elevation gain (e.g., Canal Lock – Ouche Bridge loop from Châteauneuf at 34.8 km with 122m elevation). Moderate routes can range from 30-50 km with elevation gains between 150m and 400m, such as the Château de Commarin – Grand-Pré Lock loop from Châteauneuf, which is 33.2 km with 321m of ascent.