Saulieu and Chamboux Lake Loop

This loop is categorized as a difficult road ride. It spans approximately 71.8 kilometers (44.6 miles) with a significant elevation gain of about 937 meters (3,084 feet). The Morvan region is known for its undulating and hilly terrain, featuring steep, narrow roads. Cyclists should have very good fitness to comfortably complete this route.

On average, this road cycling loop takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes to complete. However, this duration can vary based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

The route winds through extensive pine and deciduous forests and is sculpted by numerous lakes and ponds. You'll pass by scenic spots like Chamboux Lake and Champeau Pond. Expect picturesque views of beautiful mountain lakes, countless charming hamlets and villages, and stunning panoramas of the wild and unspoiled natural spaces of the Morvan.

Saulieu serves as the starting point for this loop, and as a town, it offers various parking options. While specific trailhead parking isn't detailed, you can typically find public parking within the town center or near its outskirts, providing convenient access to begin your ride.

The Morvan is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Be prepared for potentially challenging conditions if cycling in winter, as the region can experience colder weather.

No, there are generally no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public roads and designated trails within the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan. It is a protected area, but access for activities like cycling is typically free. Always respect local regulations and private property.

Given its classification as a difficult road ride with significant elevation gain and hilly terrain, this specific loop is not recommended for beginners or families with young children. It requires very good fitness and experience with challenging road cycling conditions.

Yes, this route briefly intersects with several other official trails. You'll find sections that overlap with the Grande Traversée du Massif Central à VTT - Saulieu / Lac des Settons, Grande Traversée du Massif Central à VTT - Quarré-les-Tombes / Saulieu, and the Tour du Morvan - Accès Saulieu, among others.

While dogs are generally welcome in the Parc Naturel Régional du Morvan, this specific route is a road cycling loop. Bringing a dog along on a racebike can be challenging and potentially unsafe. If you wish to explore the Morvan with your dog, consider alternative hiking or less technical cycling trails where they can be safely accommodated, always on a leash.

Saulieu, as the starting and ending point, offers various services including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Along the route itself, especially through the more natural and forested sections, services may be sparse. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks and plan any stops in advance, particularly in the smaller hamlets you might pass through.

This loop stands out for its combination of challenging climbs and rewarding natural beauty, characteristic of the Morvan's 'low mountain massif' landscape. It offers an immersive experience through extensive forests and past numerous ponds, providing a true escape into nature with minimal traffic on many of its smaller roads. It's a distinct cycling adventure in the heart of Burgundy's natural heritage.