4.9
(142)
883
riders
37
rides
Touring cycling around Brain is characterized by a landscape of gentle hills, historic waterways, and rural countryside. The region features a network of quiet roads and paths, often following canals or winding through agricultural areas and small villages. Elevation changes are generally moderate, making it suitable for a range of cycling abilities.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
4.9
(36)
226
riders
62.2km
03:48
140m
140m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(19)
97
riders
36.2km
02:27
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(6)
14
riders
21.2km
01:27
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
7
riders
71.5km
04:28
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
37.1km
02:19
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Step into the Middle Ages - another incredible place (incidentally, the film set of the movie “Chocolat” with Johnny Depp)
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Charming place, impeccable welcome and catering!
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B&B on the banks of the canal with a terrace open to all for a break...
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Wonderful location on the Burgundy Canal, a welcoming hub for hikers, cyclists, and boaters. Rooms, a small restaurant with a bar and restaurant, and a small grocery store for basic needs. And Christel and Gérald are two warm hosts. We loved our stay there. maison-du-canal.fr
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A wonderful location on the Canal de Bourgogne, a welcoming hub for hikers, cyclists, and boaters. Rooms, a small restaurant with a bar and restaurant, and a small grocery store for basic needs. And Christel and Gérald are two welcoming hosts. For long-distance hikers on the Sentier Bibracte, Alésia is a good stopover, even if it's a bit off the beaten track—the detour is worth it! https://www.maison-du-canal.fr/
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A lovely little stopover along the Canal, not far from Vitteaux. Head to the little bistro (red sign), where you'll eat like kings for next to nothing.
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There are over 40 touring cycling routes around Brain, offering a diverse range of options for exploring the region's gentle hills, historic waterways, and rural countryside.
The routes in Brain cater to various skill levels. You'll find 5 easy routes, 22 moderate routes, and 14 more challenging routes, ensuring there's something for everyone from beginners to experienced cyclists.
Yes, the region's network of quiet roads and paths, often following canals, makes it suitable for families. Look for the 'easy' rated routes, which typically feature gentler terrain and shorter distances. While specific family-friendly routes aren't highlighted, the general moderate elevation changes make many routes accessible.
Many of the touring cycling routes in Brain are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Rest area – Éguilly Castle loop from Marigny-le-Cahouët is a popular circular option, as is the Maison du Canal de Bourgogne loop from Pouillenay.
Touring cycling around Brain offers a picturesque landscape of gentle hills, historic waterways like the Canal de Bourgogne, and charming rural countryside. You'll often cycle through agricultural areas and small, traditional villages, enjoying varied and scenic views.
Absolutely. The region is rich in history and culture. Routes often pass by significant landmarks. For instance, the Flavigny-sur-Ozerain – MuséoParc Alésia loop from Flavigny-sur-Ozerain takes you through historic villages and near the fascinating MuséoParc Alésia. You might also encounter places like Flavigny-sur-Ozerain itself, known for its Aniseed of Flavigny.
The best time for touring cycling in Brain is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making for ideal cycling conditions to enjoy the rural landscapes and canal paths.
Many routes start from villages or towns like Marigny-le-Cahouët or Pouillenay, where public parking is usually available. It's advisable to check the specific starting point of your chosen route on komoot for detailed parking information.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 130 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful rural setting, the well-maintained canal paths, and the opportunity to discover charming historic villages and sites like the Maison du Canal de Bourgogne.
Yes, for those seeking a longer challenge, routes like the Fontenay Abbey – Semur en Auxois loop from Marigny-le-Cahouët cover over 70 km (43 miles) and feature more significant elevation changes, offering a rewarding experience for experienced touring cyclists.
Beginners will find several easy routes in Brain. These typically feature flatter terrain, especially along the canals, and shorter distances. While not explicitly listed as 'beginner,' routes with lower distances and minimal elevation gain are ideal for those new to touring cycling.
Yes, the region is known for its historic waterways. The Maison du Canal de Bourgogne loop from Pouillenay is a prime example, offering flat sections and scenic views as it follows the Canal de Bourgogne. Many other routes incorporate sections along these tranquil paths.
Many touring routes in Brain pass through small villages and towns where you can find local cafes, bakeries, or restaurants for refreshments. The Maison du Canal de Bourgogne, for instance, is a known spot for a break. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify such points of interest along the way.


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