The best cycling routes in Forêt De Moladier
4.6
(74)
938
riders
147
rides
Touring cycling in Forêt De Moladier offers routes through an expansive 820-hectare forest, integrated into the larger Prieurés forest massif. The terrain features a rolling plateau with a maximum altitude of 299 meters, dense woods primarily composed of sessile oaks, common beeches, and pedunculate oaks, and serene river valleys like the Ruisseau des Sabotiers. The area provides a network of paths with surfaces that are for the most part paved, alongside a mix of small roads and rolling paths, suitable for various cycling experiences.
Best touring cycling routes in Forêt De Moladier
- The most popular touring cycling route is Moulins Cathedral – Medieval Village of Souvigny loop from Coulandon, a 22.9 miles (36.8 km) trail that takes 2 hours 18 minutes to complete. This route connects cultural landmarks with forest exploration.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Bike loop from Coulandon, an easy 16.8 miles (27.1 km) path. This route offers a tranquil experience amidst the forest's natural environment.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Wheat field with panorama loop from Coulandon, a 10.4 miles (16.7 km) trail leading through wheat fields and offering panoramic views, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Touring cycling in Forêt De Moladier is defined by dense woods, a rolling plateau, and river valleys. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Forêt De Moladier are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 900 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Forêt De Moladier's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.0
(6)
32
riders
36.8km
02:19
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
27.1km
01:54
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(1)
2
riders
16.7km
01:05
160m
160m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
The patronage of this cathedral in Moulins, dedicated to the Annunciation (or, in another spelling, the Annunciation of Mary), refers to one of the many feast days in honor of the Virgin Mary. The Feast of the Annunciation (liturgical name: Annunciation of the Lord) is celebrated on March 25th, exactly nine months before Christmas. It commemorates the message the angel of the Lord brought her: that she would give birth to the Son of God – Jesus Christ. According to the account in the first chapter of the Gospel of Luke, this occurred in Nazareth, Israel. There, on the site where this event took place – according to a tradition spanning some two thousand years – a large church stands, which can thus be considered the original patronal church for the title of this church in Moulins. ] ... The Church of the Annunciation in Nazareth can be found as a komoot highlight at the following link =>> https://www.komoot.com/de-de/highlight/251260
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Many animals find refuge in this imposing oak grove, formerly owned by the Dukes of Bourbon. It's a very pleasant cycle along this shaded road.
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The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Annunciation, the episcopal see of the Diocese of Moulins, was built in the 15th century on the remains of an original 10th-century chapel dedicated to Saint Peter. The oldest parts of the collegiate church are primarily built in the flamboyant Gothic style. It was elevated to a cathedral in the first half of the 19th century and then to a minor basilica.
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Directly on the Place d'Allier stands the beautiful fountain with the large column in the middle that can be seen from afar.
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Beautiful town church in Moulins
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Very beautiful church, right in the center of Moulins. It's worth a visit. The stained glass windows are beautiful. 🤩
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The “Tour Jacquemart” is the medieval clock tower of Moulins. It is 30 meters high and dates back to 1445. The clock tower is located very close to the cathedral and the former residence of the Dukes of Bourbon.
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The Cathedral of Notre-Dame de l'Annonciation was built in the 15th century on the remains of a first chapel from the 10th century, which was dedicated to Saint Peter. Since 1817 it has been the episcopal church of the diocese of Moulins. The most important work of art in the cathedral is the altarpiece from around 1502 by the Master of Moulins. His triptych of Moulins shows the Virgin Mary in front of a rainbow on the central panel, also surrounded by the donor Duke Pierre II and Anne de Beaujeu and their daughter Suzanne, and is considered an important example of a donor portrait of the late Gothic period.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling in Forêt De Moladier?
The Forêt De Moladier features a rolling plateau with a maximum altitude of 299 meters, offering varied topography without overly strenuous climbs. You'll cycle through dense woods, primarily composed of sessile oaks, common beeches, and pedunculate oaks, with serene river valleys like the Ruisseau des Sabotiers. The network includes paths that are mostly paved, alongside a mix of small roads and rolling paths, making it suitable for various touring cycling experiences.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Forêt De Moladier?
There are over 140 touring cycling routes available in Forêt De Moladier, catering to a range of abilities. This includes approximately 60 easy routes, 40 moderate routes, and nearly 40 more challenging options.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, Forêt De Moladier offers numerous easy routes. A great option for a tranquil experience is the Bike loop from Coulandon, an easy 16.8-mile (27.1 km) path that allows you to immerse yourself in the forest's natural environment.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Beyond the expansive forest itself, you can explore serene river valleys like the Ruisseau des Sabotiers and the Goutte Champ Loué. Some routes, such as the Wheat field with panorama loop from Coulandon, offer scenic views over agricultural landscapes. The forest is also recognized as a ZNIEFF and Natura 2000 site, highlighting its rich biodiversity.
Are there any routes that combine cultural sights with nature?
Absolutely. The Moulins Cathedral – Medieval Village of Souvigny loop from Coulandon is a popular 22.9-mile (36.8 km) route that connects significant cultural landmarks with the exploration of the forest, offering a diverse cycling experience.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Forêt De Moladier?
The Forêt De Moladier is enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage, while summer provides lush greenery. The mix of paved and rolling paths makes it accessible in various conditions, though checking local weather is always recommended.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many of the routes in Forêt De Moladier are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Bike loop from Coulandon and the Wheat field with panorama loop from Coulandon, providing convenient options for your ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Forêt De Moladier?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil environment, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse scenery that combines dense woodlands with open views and river valleys.
Is there parking available near the cycling routes?
While specific parking areas are not detailed in the route descriptions, towns like Coulandon and Neuvy, which serve as starting points for many routes, typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options in these villages before your visit.
Are there any routes that pass by interesting historical or architectural sites?
Yes, the Moulins Iron Bridge – The iron bridge over the Allier River loop from Coulandon offers a chance to see a notable piece of engineering. Additionally, the Saint-Hilaire Church loop from Neuvy takes you past a local church, providing a glimpse into the region's heritage.
Can I find cafes or accommodation near the Forêt De Moladier cycling routes?
The Forêt De Moladier is close to towns like Moulins, which offers various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Starting points for routes, such as Coulandon and Neuvy, may also have local establishments where you can refresh yourself.
What is the overall difficulty level of touring cycling in Forêt De Moladier?
The routes in Forêt De Moladier cater to a range of abilities. While there are challenging options, a significant portion of the routes are classified as easy or moderate, making the area accessible for most touring cyclists. The terrain generally features a rolling plateau without extreme climbs.
Most popular routes in Forêt De Moladier
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