The best gravel rides around Vaunoise

There are 5 gravel bike routes around Vaunoise, offering a mix of moderate and difficult options to explore the region's diverse landscapes.

While the region features some challenging routes, there are no trails specifically rated as 'easy' in our current selection. However, the Bellême – Étang de la Herse loop from Bellême is a moderate 17 km route that could be a good starting point for those looking for a less strenuous ride, offering a pleasant experience around the lake.

For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, the region offers several difficult routes. The longest and most demanding is the La Perrière – Mortagne-au-Perche loop from La Perrière, spanning over 134 km with significant elevation gain. Other difficult options include the Vallée d'Enfer – Perseigne Viewpoint loop from Mamers and the Saosnois Greenway – Ruins of Perseigne Abbey loop from Mamers.

The Vanoise region, with its alpine characteristics, is generally best for gravel biking from late spring through early autumn. During these months, the weather is more stable, and trails are typically free of snow, allowing access to high-altitude prairies and scenic routes. Winter activities like fat-biking are popular, but traditional gravel biking is best enjoyed in warmer seasons.

While specific 'easy' family routes are not listed, the Vanoise region offers a variety of outdoor activities suitable for families. For gravel biking, consider the moderate Bellême – Étang de la Herse loop from Bellême, which is shorter at 17 km and passes by the scenic Étang de la Herse, potentially offering a more manageable ride for families with some biking experience.

Gravel biking in Vaunoise offers a diverse terrain, reflecting the region's alpine landscape. You can expect a mix of dirt tracks, grass tracks, and some paved sections. Routes often traverse high mountains, deep valleys, and extensive forests, with some sections featuring high-altitude prairies and glacial meltwater lakes. The varied surfaces make gravel bikes ideal for navigating the area.

Several routes pass by or near notable attractions. The Bellême – Étang de la Herse loop from Bellême takes you past the picturesque Étang de la Herse. The town of Bellême itself, a starting point for two routes, is home to the historic Saint-Sauveur Church. Additionally, the La Perrière – Mortagne-au-Perche loop from La Perrière starts near the charming village of La Perrière.

Yes, all the gravel bike routes listed for Vaunoise are circular loops. This includes the challenging La Perrière – Mortagne-au-Perche loop from La Perrière, the moderate Bellême – Relais du Roi Saint Louis loop from Bellême, and others, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location.

The Vaunoise region is appreciated by the komoot community, with an average rating of 3.5 stars. Riders often praise the diverse and dramatic alpine landscapes, the extensive network of trails, and the freedom to explore car-free environments. The mix of riding surfaces, from dirt tracks to high-altitude prairies, contributes to a varied and engaging experience.

Many routes start from towns or villages, which typically offer parking facilities. For instance, routes like the Bellême – Relais du Roi Saint Louis loop from Bellême and the Bellême – Étang de la Herse loop from Bellême begin in Bellême. Similarly, Mamers serves as a starting point for the Vallée d'Enfer – Perseigne Viewpoint loop from Mamers and the Saosnois Greenway – Ruins of Perseigne Abbey loop from Mamers.

The duration of gravel bike trails in Vaunoise varies significantly depending on the route's length and difficulty. For example, the moderate Bellême – Étang de la Herse loop from Bellême can be completed in under 1.5 hours, while the challenging La Perrière – Mortagne-au-Perche loop from La Perrière may take over 7 hours to complete.