The best cycling routes around Avallon

The region around Avallon, particularly at the edge of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, features a diverse landscape. You'll encounter rolling hills, dense forests, and numerous lakes. The scenic Cousin Valley, which many routes explore, is characterized by undulating hills and river valleys. Further afield, routes along the Burgundy Canal offer mostly paved, flatter sections.

Yes, Avallon offers a good selection of easier routes. For example, the Canal de Bourgogne: Ancy-le-Franc Loop is rated as easy and takes you through the Canal de Bourgogne region. In total, there are around 50 easy touring cycling routes available.

Many routes offer stunning natural beauty. You can explore the Cousin Valley with its river valleys and views. The Morvan Regional Natural Park provides dense forests and lakes. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that pass by the View from the Rocher de la Pérouse, offering panoramic vistas of the landscape.

While specific 'family-friendly' routes are not explicitly tagged, routes along the Burgundy Canal are generally flatter and often paved, making them suitable for families. The Canal de Bourgogne and Ancy-le-Franc Loop is an easy option that could be suitable for families.

Avallon itself boasts medieval ramparts and the Saint-Lazare collegiate church. Cycling routes often lead to charming towns and châteaux. You can visit the stunning Château de Tanlay, a marvel of the French Renaissance, or the historic town of Tonnerre, home to the Fosse Dionne karst spring.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 500 reviews. Reviewers often praise the variety of landscapes, the tranquility of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, and the quality of the roads, noting the mix of rolling hills, forests, and river valleys.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Avallon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular The Cousin Valley and the Marrault Pond — loop from Avallon in the Morvan Park and the Avallon and Cousin Valley Loop.

While Avallon has some public transport options, direct access to specific bike trailheads with bike transport can be limited. It's advisable to check local bus services for their bike policies, especially for routes extending into the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Many cyclists prefer to drive to a starting point and park.

Generally, no specific permits are required for touring cycling on established routes and public roads within the Morvan Regional Natural Park. However, always respect local signage, private property, and protected areas. Stay on marked paths and be mindful of other users and wildlife.

The spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) typically offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Burgundy. Temperatures are mild, and the landscapes are vibrant with spring blossoms or autumn colors. Summer can be warm, especially in July and August, while winter can be cold and wet.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, routes like the Canal de Bourgogne at Tanlay – Buffon's Big Forge loop from Nuits sous Ravières offer a significant distance of over 110 km. These longer routes often combine canal paths with scenic countryside roads.

Parking is generally available in Avallon town center and in many of the smaller villages that serve as starting points for routes. For routes along the Burgundy Canal, you can often find parking near canal locks or small towns like Ancy-le-Franc. Always look for designated parking areas.

While not every route will have cafes directly on the path, many routes pass through charming villages and towns where you can find local cafes, bakeries, and pubs. Avallon itself offers various options, and towns like Tonnerre or Ancy-le-Franc along the canal routes provide opportunities for refreshments.