The best traffic-free bike rides around La Collancelle
4.4
(277)
8,943
riders
52
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around La Collancelle are primarily defined by the tranquil Canal du Nivernais, offering mostly flat and easy rides along greenways and towpaths. The region features a unique lock system, including the "Voûtes de La Collancelle," and is bordered by the varied topography of the Morvan Regional Natural Park. Cyclists can expect a landscape of rolling meadows, dense forests, and numerous ponds, providing a serene environment for exploration. The area's natural features, such as the Lac…
Last updated: October 22, 2026
4.6
(14)
2,387
riders
57.6km
03:18
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
422
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(24)
156
riders
34.8km
02:03
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(18)
142
riders
40.4km
02:21
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
19.7km
01:11
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around La Collancelle
Tips from the Community
The Canal du Nivernais During the harsh winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. Wood had to be transported from other forests, particularly from the Bazois. To solve this problem, the construction of a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne was considered. Work began in 1784 with the boring of "La Montagne" at La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigable canal was planned. After 56 years of construction, the three tunnels were completed in 1840, and on March 15, 1841, the Nivernais Canal was officially opened. In the first four decades, the canal saw an increase in traffic, as it served as a means of transport for heavy loads such as stone, wood, and coal. With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the advent of the railway, the decline of navigation on the canal began. In the 1970s, political will and financial support were needed to promote river tourism, ecotourism, and cycling tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France, thanks to its gentle cruising.
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The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to build a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the drilling of "La Montagne" from La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official commissioning of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (especially stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France due to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
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The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to create a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the boring of "La Montagne" in La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official opening of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (particularly stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the most frequented canals in France, thanks to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
0
0
pleasant and shaded
0
0
Delicious food and extremely friendly staff!
4
0
Nice brasserie, good prices and centrally located
3
0
Absolutely great village, perfect silence!
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free touring cycling routes are available around La Collancelle?
There are over 45 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around La Collancelle. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulties, ensuring there's something for every cyclist looking for a peaceful ride away from cars.
What makes the Canal du Nivernais route around La Collancelle ideal for traffic-free touring?
The Canal du Nivernais cycling route is a significant part of the larger Tour de Bourgogne à Vélo, offering a mostly flat and easy ride along greenways and towpaths. It's specifically designed for leisurely touring, making it perfect for a traffic-free experience. The tranquil scenery of rolling meadows and forests enhances the peaceful journey.
Are there easy, traffic-free touring routes suitable for beginners in La Collancelle?
Yes, La Collancelle offers a good selection of easy, traffic-free routes perfect for beginners. Out of the available routes, 14 are classified as easy, providing gentle terrain and manageable distances for those new to touring cycling or seeking a relaxed pace.
Can families with children find suitable traffic-free cycling routes in La Collancelle?
Absolutely. The predominantly flat and car-free nature of routes along the Canal du Nivernais makes them very family-friendly. The easy routes are particularly well-suited for families with children, offering safe and enjoyable cycling experiences. Many sections are well-equipped with amenities like rest areas.
What are some typical distances for traffic-free touring routes starting from La Collancelle?
Routes around La Collancelle vary in length, catering to different preferences. For example, you can enjoy a moderate 27 km loop like the Canal de Nivernais – Collancelle Locks loop from La Collancelle, or a slightly longer 33 km ride such as the View of Château de Chitry – Chitry‑les‑Mines Castle loop from Sardy-lès-Épiry. There are options ranging from shorter excursions to longer day trips.
What is the best time of year to enjoy traffic-free touring cycling in La Collancelle?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months are generally the best for touring cycling in La Collancelle. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the natural landscapes along the Canal du Nivernais and surrounding areas are at their most vibrant. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage, making for picturesque rides.
Are there amenities like cafes or rest stops along the traffic-free cycling routes?
Yes, the Canal du Nivernais route, which forms the backbone of many traffic-free tours, is generally well-equipped. You can expect to find amenities such as rest areas, and in nearby towns or villages like the Town of Corbigny, you'll find cafes and other services to refuel during your ride.
Are there any unique natural or engineering marvels to see on these traffic-free routes?
Absolutely. The Collancelle Locks are a highlight, featuring 16 locks over a 3 km stretch – a fascinating engineering feat. Nearby, a 4-kilometer section between the Baye Pond and Port-Brûlé is known as "Petit Amazonie" due to its dense, wild vegetation, offering a unique natural experience.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the traffic-free Canal du Nivernais bike path?
The Canal du Nivernais and its surrounding natural areas are rich in biodiversity. Cyclists often spot various bird species, including waterfowl, along the canal. The dense vegetation of areas like "Petit Amazonie" provides habitats for diverse flora and fauna, offering opportunities for wildlife observation in a tranquil setting.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in La Collancelle?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful canal-side scenery, and the unique engineering marvels like the Collancelle Locks, making for a truly relaxing and engaging cycling experience.
Are there any circular traffic-free routes available around La Collancelle?
Yes, many of the traffic-free routes around La Collancelle are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. An example is the Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from La Collancelle, which offers a moderate 34 km ride exploring local highlights.
What historical sites or landmarks can I visit along the traffic-free routes?
Along the traffic-free routes, you can discover several interesting landmarks. The La Chapelle St Elymon is a notable historical site, and the Montreuillon Aqueduct is another impressive man-made monument that cyclists can encounter, showcasing the region's rich heritage.
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