The best traffic-free bike rides around Saussay

There are 3 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saussay featured in this guide. These routes offer a great way to explore the region's diverse landscapes away from vehicular traffic.

The gravel bike trails around Saussay, located in the broader Eure-et-Loir region, offer a mix of terrain. You can expect undulating hills, extensive forests, and picturesque river valleys. The routes often combine well-maintained paths with more rugged forest tracks, providing a varied and engaging experience for gravel cyclists.

Yes, all the featured no-traffic gravel routes around Saussay are circular. For example, you can enjoy the Eure Valley Greenway – Anet Castle loop from Ézy-sur-Eure, which is approximately 32 km long, or the shorter Woodland Path loop from Garennes-sur-Eure at about 18 km.

The trails often pass by significant historical sites and natural attractions. For instance, the Eure Valley Greenway – Anet Castle loop takes you near the impressive Anet Castle. Another route, the Lovely trail along the Avre – Cocherelle Dolmen loop, offers views of the Avre river and the ancient Cocherelle Dolmen. The region is rich with castles and scenic river paths.

While all routes are rated 'moderate' in difficulty, their no-traffic nature makes them generally safer for families. The varied terrain, including forest paths and riverbanks, can be enjoyable for older children with some cycling experience. Always consider the distance and elevation gain for your family's specific abilities before heading out.

The Eure-et-Loir region, where Saussay is located, is pleasant for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are often best. Winter riding is possible, but paths might be muddy or wet, especially in forested areas.

While specific parking details for each trailhead are not provided in this guide, routes typically start from villages like Ézy-sur-Eure, Garennes-sur-Eure, or Marcilly-sur-Eure. These villages usually offer public parking options. It's advisable to check local maps or community information for designated parking areas before your visit.

For a comfortable ride, we recommend bringing a gravel-specific or mountain bike, appropriate cycling attire, a helmet, water, snacks, a basic repair kit (spare tube, pump, multi-tool), and a fully charged phone with the komoot app for navigation. Sunscreen and insect repellent can also be useful depending on the season.

The longest route featured in this guide is the Eure Valley Greenway – Anet Castle loop from Ézy-sur-Eure, which covers approximately 32 km with moderate elevation gain. While these routes are rated 'moderate', their length and varied terrain offer a good challenge for riders looking for a longer, traffic-free experience.

The villages and towns in the Eure-et-Loir region, such as Ézy-sur-Eure, Garennes-sur-Eure, and Marcilly-sur-Eure, often have local cafes, bakeries, or small restaurants where you can refuel. For accommodation, you'll find various options from guesthouses to hotels in the larger towns nearby, offering a comfortable base for your cycling adventures.

The Saussay area benefits from its location within the Eure-et-Loir department, which is known for its extensive network of low-traffic secondary roads, forest paths, and riverbank trails. This allows for routes that specifically avoid busy main roads, providing a peaceful and immersive cycling experience through rural landscapes, forests, and along waterways like the Eure and Avre rivers.