The best cycling routes around Saint-André-En-Morvan

There are over 160 touring cycling routes available around Saint-André-En-Morvan. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options, allowing cyclists to explore the diverse landscapes of the Morvan Regional Natural Park.

The terrain around Saint-André-En-Morvan is characterized by rolling hills, picturesque river valleys such as the Cure, and scenic lakes like Lake Crescent. You'll cycle through dense woodlands and a network of roads that often connect charming small villages and historic sites, offering a mix of challenging climbs and more moderate paths.

Yes, there are options for easier touring cycling. While many routes feature rolling hills, there are 10 routes specifically rated as easy. For a moderate option that balances challenge with scenery, consider the Historic Climb to Avallon – D'Island Castle loop from Le Grand Island, which is 17.6 km long and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes.

For a challenging ride with notable climbs, the Morvan offers several options. The Col de Guitte Longue – Lake Crescent loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure is a difficult 39.1 km path featuring a significant hill climb and views of Lake Crescent. Another demanding route is the Bridge over the Cure – Vézelay loop from Domecy-sur-Cure, a 36.2 km trail that includes a substantial ascent and passes through historic areas.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Morvan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the The Two Bridges – Bridge over the Cure loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, which is 37.2 km long, and the Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, a 14.4 km moderate ride.

The routes often pass by beautiful natural sights and historic landmarks. You can explore the Cousin Valley, visit the impressive Roche Percée, or cycle along the shores of various lakes. The region is rich in natural monuments and offers stunning viewpoints.

Absolutely. The Morvan is known for its scenic lakes and dams. You can cycle past the Crescent Dam, explore the tranquil Étang Chaumail, or see the impressive Chaumeçon Dam. Many routes offer views of these beautiful water bodies, such as the Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure.

The touring cycling routes around Saint-André-En-Morvan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 260 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful natural scenery, and the well-maintained network of roads that connect charming villages and historic sites.

The Morvan region is generally pleasant for touring cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers lush greenery and blooming landscapes, while summer provides warm weather ideal for longer rides. Autumn brings beautiful fall colors to the dense woodlands. It's always advisable to check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions can vary.

The routes primarily use paved roads and well-maintained paths suitable for touring bicycles. However, given the region's rolling hills and woodlands, some sections might be exposed to wind or offer shade. Always check the weather forecast before your ride, especially for rain, as some paths might become slippery. Be prepared for elevation changes, as many routes include significant climbs and descents.

Yes, the Morvan Regional Natural Park offers routes that can be combined or are long enough for extended touring. For example, the Col de Guitte Longue – Lake Crescent loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure is nearly 40 km, and the Bridge over the Cure – Vézelay loop from Domecy-sur-Cure is over 36 km. These routes provide a good foundation for longer excursions, and many more can be found on komoot to link together.

The touring cycling routes often connect small villages and historic sites within the Morvan. These villages typically offer opportunities to stop for refreshments, whether at a local café, a small restaurant, or a boulangerie. It's a good idea to plan your route to include these stops, especially on longer rides, to enjoy local hospitality and refuel.