The best gravel rides around Vallan
3.0
(2)
39
riders
20
rides
Gravel biking around Vallan offers a diverse landscape characterized by river valleys, such as those near the Yonne, and areas featuring notable rock formations like the Saussois Rocks. The region's terrain includes a mix of rolling hills and more challenging ascents, providing varied experiences for gravel cyclists. Routes often traverse open countryside and wooded sections, with some trails leading through or near historic villages and vineyards.
Best gravel bike trails around Vallan
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Paul…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
3.0
(1)
8
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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7
riders
52.0km
03:22
540m
540m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
5
riders
43.1km
02:47
480m
480m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
105km
06:36
1,110m
1,110m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
An unmissable viewpoint of our region!
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Vaux was given to the Abbey of St-Julien d’Auxerre from its foundation in the 7th century. From the bridge you have a beautiful view of the village.
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An old and massive stone bridge over the Yonne. It is cycleable and sees a lot of car and truck use, so be careful.
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This wash house in Chevannes once served as a place to rinse washed laundry (several hundred years ago). The whole town used it at the time. It is now more of a historical monument and is no longer in use.
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Flat, smooth cycle path along the Yonne. From there if you look back you will see a railway bridge. A nice place for a break or a picnic.
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The Sainte-Reine chapel seems to have been started with the apse towards the end of the 15th century. and built in several stages until the beginning of the 17th century. On either side of the entrance arch to the apse and on the south wall of the nave, commemorative plaques recall the role of the d'Avigneau family, notably Maurice Marie d'Avigneau who restored the chapel and returned it to worship in 1952.
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The stronghold of Belombre was the seat of part of the lordship of Escolives held, in 1507, by the lieutenant general of Auxerre, Blanchet David. Marie David brought it to Jacques de Meung dit de La Ferté, who died on June 4, 1589, massacred by the Leaguers of Auxerre. Madeleine de La Ferté Meung, her granddaughter, transmitted Bellombre to the La Bussière family and Catherine de La Bussière brought it to the Girard d'Azy family. The children of Paul de Girard sold it, around 1656, to François de Chastellux, who ceded this first half of Escolives in 1670, to Robert Chaponnel, Receiver General of Finances. He died on October 28, 1678 without issue, while he was undertaking the reconstruction of the castle. Anne Robineau, receiver general of Finances in Provence, who carried out the project developed by Chaponnel and built a new castle on the land surrounded by a moat on the site of the medieval manor. In 1709, Louis Gayot, buyer, united the two shares of the land of Escolives before selling the Château de Bélombre in November 1726, to Joseph Le Muet, King's attorney in the bailiwick of Auxerre. Rosalie Le Muet married in 1804, Jean Jacques Claude Baudenet d'Annoux. Their son, Louis-Hugues, who feared the dangerous invasions of the waters of the Yonne, decided to demolish the castle which he rebuilt on vast basements around 1870. The estate is located on the left bank of the canal. It is a large single-story building. Corner chains and harped stone legs support the entablature and an attic floor in the overhang of the broken roof. The moat and the stone bridge decorated with elegant 18th century ironwork have been preserved. (1) MH protected elements: facades and roofs; water pit ; the pillars of the entrance gate; the vestibule and the interior staircase with its wrought iron banister: registration by decree of December 6, 1977. The facades and roofs of the outbuildings; the terrace located to the southwest of the castle and the sleeping bridge; the bridge thrown over the moat, in front of the northeast facade of the castle; the gardens surrounding the castle; the perspective alley and the double water alley: registration by decree of June 7, 1993 The Chateau de Belombre 89290 Escolives-Sainte-Camille, private property, cannot be visited.
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At the statue of the namesake Paul Bert you will find a small balcony from which you can enjoy the view of the old town in peace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Vallan?
There are over 20 gravel bike routes around Vallan, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Vallan?
Vallan's gravel biking terrain is characterized by a mix of moderate and difficult trails. While the sport is generally categorized as 'mtb_easy', many routes feature significant elevation gain and varied surfaces, making them challenging. For example, the Paul Bert Bridge – Island of Pleasures, Auxerre loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais is considered difficult.
Are there any long-distance gravel biking options in Vallan?
Yes, Vallan offers several long-distance gravel routes. One notable option is the Paul Bert Bridge – Pont sur Yonne loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais, which spans over 104 kilometers and includes more than 1100 meters of elevation gain.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes around Vallan?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Vallan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the The Yonne and the Park Rocks – The Saussois Rocks loop from Val-de-Mercy, which is a popular circular trail.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on Vallan's gravel trails?
Gravel biking in Vallan takes you through diverse landscapes, including picturesque river valleys, such as those near the Yonne, and areas with notable rock formations like the Saussois Rocks. You'll also encounter rolling hills, open countryside, wooded sections, and trails that pass through or near charming villages.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking trails in Vallan?
While many routes in Vallan are rated as difficult due to elevation and distance, the region's varied terrain means there are likely sections or shorter paths suitable for families. It's recommended to check individual route details for specific difficulty and length to find the best fit for your family's experience level.
What are some interesting viewpoints or attractions along Vallan's gravel routes?
Many routes offer scenic views and pass by points of interest. For instance, the Paul Bert Bridge – View of Vaux Village loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais provides views towards Vaux Village. Additionally, some trails are near landmarks like the Paul Bert Bridge or the Place Surugue and Cadet Roussel Fountain in Auxerre.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Vallan?
The best time for gravel biking in Vallan typically aligns with milder weather conditions, usually spring through autumn. This period offers pleasant temperatures and generally drier trails, making for a more enjoyable experience across the region's varied terrain.
Are there any gravel trails that pass by cafes or places to refuel?
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, many trails traverse through or near villages and towns, such as Auxerre or Vaux Village. These locations often provide opportunities to find cafes, bakeries, or shops where you can refuel and rest during your ride.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Vallan?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, which includes river valleys and challenging ascents, as well as the mix of open countryside and wooded sections that make for varied and engaging rides.
Are there advanced gravel routes for experienced riders near Vallan?
Yes, Vallan offers several advanced gravel routes. Many of the trails are rated as 'difficult' and feature significant elevation gains, such as the Paul Bert Bridge – Paul Bert Bridge loop from Auxerre Saint-Gervais, which includes nearly 1000 meters of climbing over its 73-kilometer distance.
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