The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Bordes

There are over 40 dedicated traffic-free road cycling routes around Les Bordes. These routes range in difficulty, with 16 considered easy and 24 moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels.

The region around Les Bordes, nestled in the picturesque Loire Valley and Sologne Forest, offers an exceptional environment for traffic-free road cycling. You'll find dedicated cycling trails within estates, as well as access to major networks like La Loire à Vélo and the "Sologne à Vélo" circuits. These routes are predominantly flat, well-paved, and designed to keep you away from vehicular traffic, allowing for a serene and immersive experience.

Yes, the area offers 16 easy traffic-free road cycling routes, many of which are suitable for beginners and families. The generally flat terrain of the Loire Valley makes for comfortable rides. An example of an easy route is the Beautiful barge on the Loire – Route along the Loire loop from Les Bordes, which is 35.5 km long.

You'll cycle through diverse and beautiful landscapes. Many routes follow the tranquil Loire River, offering picturesque views of its sandy banks. You'll also traverse the dense Sologne Forest with its extensive woodlands, serene lakes, and wetlands, providing a peaceful backdrop and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Giennois du sud — Loop from Sully-sur-Loire offers a 77.6 km circular ride, and the Étang du Bourg – Dampierre-en-Burly Castle loop from Ouzouer-sur-Loire is an easier 22.5 km loop.

The Loire Valley is rich in history. While cycling, you can encounter magnificent châteaux and other historical sites. Notable attractions include the impressive Sully-sur-Loire Castle and the historic Basilica of Saint Benedict at Fleury. Many routes pass through charming villages, offering a glimpse into traditional French life.

Route lengths vary significantly. You can find shorter loops like the Étang du Bourg – Dampierre-en-Burly Castle loop from Ouzouer-sur-Loire at 22.5 km, or longer rides such as the Giennois du sud — Loop from Sully-sur-Loire at 77.6 km. The elevation gain is generally low across the region, with most routes featuring less than 300 meters of ascent, making them accessible and enjoyable.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.19 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the stunning natural beauty of the Loire River and Sologne Forest, and the opportunity to cycle past historic châteaux and charming villages without the disturbance of traffic.

While specific public transport details for each route start point are not provided, the Loire Valley region is generally well-connected. Many towns along the Loire à Vélo route have train stations, making it possible to reach certain starting points by regional train, often with facilities for bikes.

The Loire Valley is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, ideal for cycling. Summer can be warm but is also popular, especially along the shaded routes of the Sologne Forest. Winter cycling is possible, but check local conditions as some services might be reduced.

While popular routes like sections of La Loire à Vélo can see more cyclists, the extensive network, especially within the Sologne à Vélo circuits and dedicated estate trails, offers many opportunities for tranquil rides. Exploring routes that venture deeper into the Sologne Forest often provides a more secluded experience away from the main tourist paths.