The best gravel rides around Basses
4.0
(1)
39
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Basses offers routes through varied landscapes, characterized by agricultural fields, river valleys, and historic sites. The terrain includes a mix of paved roads, gravel paths, and unpaved tracks, suitable for gravel bikes. Elevations are generally moderate, with some routes featuring sustained climbs. The region provides a diverse backdrop for cycling, from open countryside to areas near historic towns.
Best gravel bike trails around Basses
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Chinon Fortress – Fontevraud Royal Abbey…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.0
(1)
26
riders
97.2km
06:31
970m
970m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
59.0km
04:09
590m
590m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
2
riders
60.2km
03:41
280m
280m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
49.9km
03:05
380m
380m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
63.1km
03:56
420m
420m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
3
0
History in brief Antiquity: the site is strategically located on a promontory and has been inhabited for 3,000 years. It was not fortified until the end of the Roman Empire. Middle Ages: in 1154, the new King of England, Henry II Plantagenet, became ruler of an empire stretching from Scotland to the Pyrenees and made Chinon his continental capital. He had a large palace built next to the fortress, which has now disappeared. In 1189, abandoned by his sons, Richard the Lionheart and John Lackland, and fleeing from the King of France, he eventually died there. Philippe Auguste had the defensive Tour du Coudray built there after the siege of 1205. Renaissance: in 1454, the fortress became the main residence of Queen Marie d'Anjou, who lived there without her husband. She spent lavishly on decorating the house to her taste. From the 16th century onwards, the fortress was gradually abandoned and fell into disrepair. Despite the dangerous nature of the terrain, it became a public promenade in 1824 and was listed as a monument in 1840. The restoration of the estate began in 1854 thanks to the efforts of the writer Prosper Mérimée. Source: https://loirelovers.fr/en/visit-royal-fort-chinon/
6
0
Nice location to take a break here. Picnic benches are set up in the shaded area. The terrace of the summer bar La Guinguette has a nice view of the river Vienne and the Royal Fort of Chinon.
5
0
On this bridge over the La Vienne you have a nice view of the skyline of Candes-Saint-Martin. This cozy village is located near the confluence of the Vienne and the Loire.
4
0
Tough calf biter. Here you know why there are gears on your bike.
0
0
Come in the right season and admire the rolling landscape where sunflowers show their best side.
5
0
Fontevraud-l'Abbaye is located in the natural region of the Loire Valley, listed as a "living cultural landscape" by UNESCO. As its name suggests, the history and present of the municipality are closely linked to the Abbey of Notre-Dame, founded in 1099. The abbey presents the originality of being part of a mixed order, but led by abbesses until the Revolution. was the necropolis of the Plantagenet dynasty. The recumbent figures of Richard the Lionheart, Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine are still preserved there. The vast abbey complex was transformed by Napoleon I into a penal colony and then into a "central house". This extraordinary prison closed its doors in 1963. While the abbey church and the various monastic sites were rehabilitated, the entire old abbey has since housed a prestigious cultural centre with, among other things, a renowned art museum, welcoming meetings and artists in residence. Art, history and heritage are highlighted throughout the year.
4
0
Located at the crossroads of Anjou, Touraine and Poitou, welcome to the Fontevraud-l'Abbaye Tourist Office, our travel advisors will welcome you in front of the Saint-Michel church to help you discover the destination. Let us advise you and discover a village full of charm. Formed around the famous royal abbey, the Plantagenets necropolis, it is today a lively village, rich in numerous monuments, shops and craftsmen. The Tourist Office offers you: a privileged welcome - a free wifi hotspot - a shop with a wide choice of regional products, gifts, books and souvenirs - good tips to visit more and spend less when buying your entrance tickets - a complete tourist guide - a website - but also to travel light, by leaving your luggage with us. More information and opening hours at https://www.ot-saumur.fr/nl/sheets/vvv-kantoor-fontevraud-labbaye-5404626/
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Basses?
The gravel biking trails around Basses feature a diverse landscape, including agricultural fields, picturesque river valleys, and areas near historic towns. You'll encounter a mix of paved roads, gravel paths, and unpaved tracks. Elevations are generally moderate, though some routes include sustained climbs.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly gravel bike trails in Basses?
While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the region's varied terrain means some sections might be suitable for beginners. For example, the Château de Basché loop from Loudun and the Fontevraud Royal Abbey – View of Château de Chinon loop from Lerné are both rated as moderate, offering rolling terrain that could be a good starting point for those with some gravel biking experience.
What are some notable landmarks or scenic viewpoints along the gravel routes?
Many routes in Basses pass by significant historical and natural sights. You can cycle past the impressive Chinon Fortress and Fontevraud Royal Abbey on the Chinon Fortress – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Loudun. Other routes offer views of local châteaux like the Château de Basché, or scenic agricultural landscapes, such as the sunflower fields on the Le Camp des Romains, Cinais – View of sunflower fields loop from Loudun.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, all the routes highlighted in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the challenging Chinon Fortress – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Loudun and the moderate Château de Basché loop from Loudun.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking around Basses?
The region, characterized by agricultural plains and river corridors, is generally pleasant for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while autumn provides vibrant colors. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winter conditions might include colder temperatures and potentially wet or muddy trails, especially on unpaved sections.
Are the gravel trails around Basses suitable for families?
The guide features routes primarily rated as moderate to difficult, which might be challenging for younger children or families new to gravel biking. However, families with older, experienced riders could enjoy the scenic routes. Always check the distance and elevation gain for each route to determine suitability, such as the 49.2 km Fontevraud Royal Abbey – View of Château de Chinon loop from Lerné.
Where can I find parking or trailhead access for these gravel routes?
Many of the featured routes, such as those starting from Loudun or Lerné, typically offer parking options in or near the starting villages. For specific trailhead access and parking information, it's best to check the individual route pages on komoot, as details can vary.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Basses?
The komoot community rates the gravel biking experience around Basses highly, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Users often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of natural beauty with historical landmarks, and the well-maintained paths that make for an engaging ride.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes or water features?
Yes, the Étang d’Assay – Château de Basché loop from Beuxes specifically includes the Étang d’Assay, offering a pleasant water feature along the route. The region's river valleys also provide scenic views of water corridors.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the gravel bike trails?
The routes often pass through or near historic towns and villages like Loudun, Chinon, and Lerné. These areas typically offer a range of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. It's advisable to check local listings in these towns for specific establishments.
How long do the gravel bike trails typically take to complete?
The duration varies significantly based on the route's length and difficulty. For instance, the challenging Chinon Fortress – Fontevraud Royal Abbey loop from Loudun, at 99 km, can take nearly 8 hours, while the moderate Fontevraud Royal Abbey – View of Château de Chinon loop from Lerné, at 49.2 km, is typically completed in under 4 hours. Always consider your own pace and fitness level.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
