The best MTB trails around Saint-Rémy
4.4
(8)
114
riders
36
rides
Mountain biking around Saint-Rémy offers diverse terrain within the scenic Provençal landscape, primarily centered around the Alpilles Mountains. This region features limestone hills, providing a mix of challenging and accessible routes. Riders can explore extensive olive groves and vineyards, which offer picturesque paths, alongside unique geological sites like Val d'Enfer. The area's natural features create varied mountain biking terrain with options for different skill levels.
Best mountain bike trails around Saint-Rémy
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Canal de Bourgogne – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard, a 22.0 miles (35.5 km) trail that takes 2 hours 7 minutes to complete. This moderate route features gentle elevation changes along a canal.
- Another top favourite among local mountain bikers is Montbard lock – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard, a moderate 25.3 miles (40.7 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gain through varied terrain.
- Local mountain bikers also love the Buffon's Big Forge – Montbard lock loop from Montbard, a 23.4 miles (37.7 km) trail leading through rural landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours 2 minutes.
- Mountain biking around Saint-Rémy is defined by limestone hills, olive groves, and vineyards. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy paths to more demanding routes.
- The routes in Saint-Rémy are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 130 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Saint-Rémy's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 23, 2026
5.0
(1)
18
riders
35.5km
02:08
90m
90m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
riders
40.7km
03:24
580m
580m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
39.0km
03:07
530m
540m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
38.5km
02:14
110m
110m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
28.8km
02:16
370m
370m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Abbey of Fontenay, like all monasteries and places of worship, was, of course, founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding significance, it has also been honored with the title of "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The German-language television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites around the world in quarter-hour segments. One episode also deals with this abbey, and the website reads: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monastic ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls its followers to return to early Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks establish their first monastery, "Citeaux," after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The order grows rapidly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread throughout France, even to Germany. The Fontenay Abbey is also founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The Abbey of Fontenay was, like all monasteries and places of worship, of course founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding importance, it has also been "ennobled" by UNESCO with the title of "World Cultural Heritage". The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites all over the world in quarter-hour contributions. One episode also deals with this abbey, on the website you can read: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monks' ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls on its followers to return to original Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks found their first monastery "Citeaux", after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The religious order grows quickly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread across France and into Germany. The Fontenay monastery was founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The world heritage monastery is worth a visit. However, there is an entrance fee.
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Magnificent stone bridge which spans the Brenne in the center of Montbard. The bridge is paved, and offers you splendid views of both banks and the river below.
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The city lies on Brenne and the Canal de Bourgogne. The area was already populated in ancient times. During the time of the Gauls there was a Druid community here. In the Middle Ages a town developed around the castle. Aleth, the mother of Bernard of Clairvaux, was born at the castle in 1070. The settlement received city rights in 1231. While the castle was a secondary residence of the Dukes of Valois from Burgundy, it was besieged in 1590 by the Count of Tavannes, who fought the Duke of Nemours on behalf of the French King Henri IV. The Canal de Bourgogne opened in 1833. In 1926, Montbard became a sub-prefecture by the decree of Raymond Poincarés.
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Beautiful old town on the Canal du Bourgogne; Castle hill with Gothic town church; campsite with outdoor swimming pool; Starting point for tours in the area, especially to Fontenay Abbey
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At this point, you exit the D9 and follow the road which runs along the Canal de Bourgogne. This cycle path is very long and famous. There are several places to picnic along the canal.
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Old church from the 12th century, with a small cemetery, closed to visitors, but still picturesque from the outside.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
There are nearly 40 mountain bike trails around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence listed on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences within the scenic Provençal landscape, primarily centered around the Alpilles Mountains.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in the Alpilles?
The terrain in the Alpilles Mountains is diverse, featuring limestone hills, extensive olive groves, and vineyards. You'll find a mix of rolling countryside, hills, and flat sections, with rocky forest roads and fire service roads. Some routes offer gentle elevation changes, while others include significant climbs, providing a true cross-country experience.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
Yes, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence offers options for different ability levels. While many routes are moderate, there are easy paths suitable for beginners and families looking for a less challenging ride. These often traverse vineyards and olive groves, providing picturesque and accessible cycling.
What are the best times of year for mountain biking in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
The best seasons for mountain biking in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence are generally spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer can be very hot, making early morning or late afternoon rides preferable, while winter offers cooler temperatures but can have more unpredictable weather.
What kind of scenic views can I expect on mountain bike trails in the Alpilles?
Mountain bike trails in the Alpilles offer stunning panoramic views. You can expect to see vast olive groves, vineyards, and the dramatic limestone hills of the Alpilles. From higher elevations, it's even possible to catch glimpses of the Mediterranean Sea.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the mountain bike routes?
While specific routes may vary, the region around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is rich in history and natural beauty. You might encounter sites like Buffon's Big Forge or the historic Fontenay Abbey. The area also features ancient Roman roads like the Via Domitia and is close to the Glanum Archaeological Site, offering a blend of history and outdoor activity.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
The mountain bike trails around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Over 120 mountain bikers have explored the varied terrain, often praising the scenic Provençal landscape and the diverse options for different skill levels.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes available?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in the Saint-Rémy-de-Provence area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. This makes planning your ride and logistics, such as parking, much simpler.
Is it possible to rent mountain bikes or e-bikes in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence?
Yes, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is well-equipped for cyclists. You can find bike rentals, including e-bikes, in the area. This makes it accessible for visitors of all fitness levels to explore the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage without bringing their own equipment.
Are there mountain bike routes with significant elevation gain for a challenging ride?
Yes, while some routes offer gentle changes, the Alpilles Mountains provide opportunities for more challenging rides with significant elevation gains. For example, a route like Montbard lock – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard features over 580 meters of elevation gain, offering a good workout through varied terrain.
Can I find mountain bike trails that pass through vineyards or olive groves?
Absolutely. A defining characteristic of mountain biking around Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is the opportunity to cycle through picturesque vineyards and extensive olive groves. Many routes are specifically designed to showcase these iconic Provençal landscapes.
Are there any specific routes that are less crowded?
While popular routes can see more traffic, the vast network of trails within the Parc Naturel Régional des Alpilles means you can often find quieter paths, especially during off-peak hours or by exploring some of the less-trafficked forest roads. Choosing routes slightly off the main tourist trails can offer a more serene experience.
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