4.4
(1111)
8,856
riders
468
rides
Touring cycling around Fontaine-Étoupefour, a commune in Calvados, France, provides access to a network of cycling routes and greenways. The region is characterized by the Odon River flowing through it, the "Normandy bocage" with its hedgerow farmland, and the green meadows of the Pays d'Auge area. These features offer varied and tranquil surroundings for cyclists. The area also provides access to the larger Vélo Francette route, known for its family-friendly greenways.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
3.7
(14)
46
riders
53.2km
03:10
350m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
38
riders
43.7km
03:41
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.0
(1)
22
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
7
riders
38.4km
02:23
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
52.2km
03:08
360m
360m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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For a fairly long stretch, you can travel back and forth in the valley on the still-existing tracks on the Dreysene. The acacia shoots make the ride interesting for those sitting on the tree side, and there are plenty of views of the valley.
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Nowadays, very few mills are still in operation in their original function, but they appear to hikers and cyclists along the river as technical and historical monuments of an ancient craft tradition: solely through human ingenuity and the natural power of flowing water as driving energy, the heavy millstones inside were moved and thus, for example, grain kernels could be ground into flour (so-called grain mills) or oil could be pressed from fruits (e.g. olives) (so-called oil mills).
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On the greenway
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Notre-Dame de Bayeux Cathedral An imposing Gothic cathedral, consecrated in 1077. William the Conqueror is said to have been present here.
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The first trotting race was organized in the Prairie on August 26, 1837, by the Caen Agricultural and Commercial Society. On February 13, 1839, the city decided to create a permanent racecourse. In August of the following year, it was agreed to build stands to accommodate spectators. In 1845, the earth from the digging of the Caen-Sea Canal was dumped into the Prairie to build the racecourse. On October 21, 1864, the Society for the Encouragement of the Improvement of the French Half-Blood Horse was created in Caen to regulate the trotting racing code for the whole of France. (letrot.com/hippodromes/caen/1400)
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There are over 470 touring cycling routes available around Fontaine-Étoupefour. These routes cater to various skill levels, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and difficult options.
Yes, the region is well-suited for family cycling. The larger Vélo Francette route, known for its family-friendly greenways along the Caen Canal and through the Suisse Normande, is accessible from Calvados. Many local routes also incorporate dedicated cycle paths, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for families.
You'll experience diverse landscapes, including the tranquil flow of the Odon River, the characteristic 'Normandy bocage' with its hedgerow farmland, and the verdant green meadows of the Pays d'Auge area. These features create a picturesque and varied backdrop for your rides.
Yes, there are several circular routes. A popular option is La Vélo Francette – Hippodrome de la Prairie loop from Fontaine-Étoupefour, which is an easy 18.8 km ride. Another is the more challenging Bois des Saules – Le Bois Brée loop from Fontaine-Étoupefour, covering 43.7 km through wooded areas.
The region is rich in history. You can find attractions such as the 15th-century Château de Fontaine and the 12th-century Saint-Pierre Church within the commune. Nearby, you can visit the Men's Abbey (Saint Stephen) and Caen Castle. The Hill 112 Memorial site is also a significant historical landmark in the vicinity.
The spring and summer months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Calvados, Normandy. The region's green meadows and bocage are particularly vibrant, and the weather is typically mild, making for comfortable rides.
Yes, the region provides access to longer routes. The Vélo Francette, a major national cycling route, passes through the Calvados department, offering extensive greenways and connections for longer journeys. You can also find routes like the Notre-Dame Cathedral – Historic Center of Bayeux loop from Verson, which is a moderate 53.1 km ride.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 900 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes river valleys, hedgerow farmland, and green meadows, as well as the well-maintained network of cycle paths and greenways.
Absolutely. Many routes in the area blend different types of paths. For instance, a spring ride starting in Fontaine-Étoupefour traverses through Feugerolles and Bully, connecting to a greenway towards Caen's Prairie, and then follows a cycle path through Louvigny and Bretteville-sur-Odon, offering a mix of road and dedicated greenway sections.
Yes, there are many moderate routes. For example, the Château de Gavrus – Château de Ragny loop from Verson is a moderate 38.4 km route. Another option is the Living water – Former mine at May-sur-Orne loop from Mouen, which covers 49.4 km and offers varied terrain.


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