The best cycling routes around Bourgogne

Bourgogne offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 200 options available on komoot. These routes cater to different preferences, from leisurely rides along canals to more challenging ascents through vineyards and forests.

Bourgogne's touring cycling routes traverse diverse landscapes. You'll find extensive vineyards, particularly along the famous 'Voie des Vignes', peaceful canals like the Canal de Bourgogne and Nivernais Canal, and rolling hills. For more challenging terrain, the Morvan Mountains offer dramatic scenery with forests and lakes. Iconic natural features include the Roche de Solutré and the granite boulders of Rochers du Carnaval.

Yes, Bourgogne is well-suited for easy touring cycling, especially along its extensive network of canals and rivers. These paths, such as those along the Nivernais Canal or the 'Voie Bleue' along the Saône River, are largely flat and ideal for leisurely rides. For example, the Lock n°6 – End of the canal at berry-au-bac loop from Courcy - Brimont is an easy route with minimal elevation gain.

The best time for touring cycling in Bourgogne is generally from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant, especially the vineyards in late summer and early autumn during harvest season. This period also allows for comfortable exploration of the region's outdoor attractions.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Bourgogne are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. This is particularly common along the canal paths and vineyard routes. An example of a moderate circular route is the Reims green corridor – Canal de l'Aisne à la Marne loop from Loivre.

Bourgogne is rich in cultural and historical attractions. Along your rides, you can explore historic wine estates like Château du Clos de Vougeot, visit charming wine villages, or stop in cities like Beaune, home to the historic Hospices de Beaune. While cycling around the broader region, you might encounter landmarks such as the Place Royale (Reims) or the Mars Gate.

Bourgogne offers routes for all skill levels. Approximately 90 routes are rated as easy, perfect for a relaxed ride. There are also about 95 moderate routes, which might include some undulating terrain or longer distances. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are around 33 difficult routes, often found in the hiller areas like the Morvan Mountains.

Bourgogne is a very bike-friendly region, with many services catering to cyclists. Look for establishments displaying the 'Accueil Vélo' label, which indicates cyclist-friendly accommodation, restaurants, and repair shops. These services are particularly prevalent along popular routes like the 'Voie Verte' and canal paths.

The touring cycling routes in Bourgogne are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 340 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's well-maintained car-free paths, the stunning vineyard scenery, and the peaceful atmosphere along the canals.

Absolutely. Many routes in Bourgogne provide breathtaking scenic viewpoints. The 'Voie des Vignes' offers continuous views of the famous vineyards, while the Roche de Solutré provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. Hilly routes in the Morvan Mountains also offer elevated perspectives of forests and lakes. For specific viewpoints, you can explore resources like Beaune Tourism's top scenic overlooks.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many of Bourgogne's touring cycling trails, especially on the car-free 'Voie Verte' and canal paths, provided they are kept on a leash. However, it's always advisable to check specific local regulations or signage, particularly in nature reserves or private vineyard areas, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.

Yes, combining touring cycling with wine tasting is a quintessential Bourgogne experience. The 'Voie des Vignes' route, for instance, passes through numerous renowned wine villages such as Pommard, Volnay, and Meursault, where many wineries offer tastings. You can easily plan stops at various estates to sample local wines and learn about the region's viticulture.