The best cycling routes around Beaulieu
4.4
(132)
697
riders
45
rides
Touring cycling around Beaulieu offers routes primarily characterized by river valleys and canal towpaths, providing a generally flat to gently undulating terrain. The landscape often features agricultural fields, small villages, and stretches of riverside greenery, ideal for relaxed cycling. Many routes follow the historic Canal du Nivernais, known for its locks and tranquil waters, making it suitable for various skill levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Beaulieu
- The most popular touring cycling route is Canal du Nivernais – Canal de…
Last updated: August 29, 2026
4.8
(43)
206
riders
95.3km
05:32
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.2
(5)
19
riders
50.0km
03:03
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.0
(1)
20
riders
70.3km
04:06
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
18
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
6
riders
34.8km
02:15
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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.
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pleasant and shaded
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Very nice cycle route along the canal with many sights.
2
0
Delicious food and extremely friendly staff!
4
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Beaulieu?
There are over 45 touring cycling routes in the Beaulieu area. These routes primarily feature river valleys and canal towpaths, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Beaulieu offers over 10 easy touring cycling routes, many of which follow the generally flat and well-maintained canal towpaths. An excellent option for a relaxed ride is the Le Truck Food Truck Le Poteau loop from Chitry-les-Mines, which is 16 km long and has minimal elevation gain.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Beaulieu?
The touring cycling routes around Beaulieu are characterized by river valleys and canal towpaths, providing a generally flat to gently undulating terrain. You'll cycle through agricultural fields, small villages, and stretches of riverside greenery, particularly along the historic Canal du Nivernais.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge, there are over 10 difficult routes available. One such route is the Canal du Nivernais – Canal de Nivernais Towpath loop from Guipy, which covers 86.6 km with significant elevation changes.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Beaulieu?
Many routes follow the scenic Canal de Nivernais Towpath, known for its tranquil waters and locks. You might also encounter historic sites like Château d'Arthel or La Motte Castle, and natural beauty spots such as Baye Pond. The Town of Corbigny also offers a charming stop.
Are there circular touring cycling routes starting from Beaulieu?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Beaulieu area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the popular Manual Drawbridge – Canal du Nivernais loop from Guipy and the Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from Guipy.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about cycling in Beaulieu?
The touring cycling routes in Beaulieu are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 140 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the consistent surfaces of the canal towpaths, the scenic views, and the overall relaxed atmosphere of the region.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Beaulieu?
The best time for touring cycling in Beaulieu is typically from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the canal towpaths and rural landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Are there touring cycling routes that pass through villages or offer places for a pub lunch?
Many routes in Beaulieu pass through charming small villages along the canal or river, offering opportunities for refreshment. While specific pub lunch stops aren't detailed for every route, the presence of villages like the Town of Corbigny suggests places to stop for food and drink.
Are the touring cycling routes in Beaulieu suitable for dogs?
Many of the canal towpaths and rural tracks are generally suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash where necessary. Always be mindful of local regulations, wildlife, and other path users. Ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.
How long do the touring cycling routes around Beaulieu typically take to complete?
The duration of touring cycling routes in Beaulieu varies significantly. Shorter, easy routes like the Le Truck Food Truck Le Poteau loop from Chitry-les-Mines can be completed in just over an hour. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Cuncy Castle – Historic centre of Clamecy loop from Grenois (57.6 km), may take around 3.5 to 4 hours or more, depending on your pace and stops.
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