The best cycling routes in Brittany

Brittany offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 15,000 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely coastal rides to more challenging inland adventures.

Brittany's touring cycling routes feature a diverse landscape. You'll find over 1,700 kilometers of coastline with dramatic cliffs, sheltered coves, and sandy beaches, particularly along the Pink Granite Coast and Emerald Coast. Inland, the region offers rolling farmland, lush valleys, and heather-covered moors, including the more rugged Monts d'Arrée. Additionally, a network of rivers and canals, such as the Nantes-Brest Canal, provides flat, shaded towpaths ideal for relaxed cycling.

The mild climate in Brittany makes it suitable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer provides warmer weather, perfect for coastal rides. The region rarely experiences extreme conditions, ensuring comfortable cycling experiences.

Yes, Brittany has many easy touring cycling routes, with over 5,500 options rated as easy on komoot. These often follow dedicated paths like the 'Greenways' (Voies Vertes) or canal towpaths, providing flat and safe rides away from traffic. An example is La Littorale Cycle Route: Bénodet and Île-Tudy Loop, which is an easy 32.7 km route.

Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, Brittany offers over 3,300 difficult touring cycling routes. These often involve more significant elevation changes, particularly in areas like the Monts d'Arrée or along rugged coastal sections. A challenging option is From Crozon to Pointe de Pen Hir — loop in the PARC NATUREL RÉGIONAL D'ARMORIQUE, a 47.5 km route with over 550 meters of elevation gain.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Brittany are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This is convenient for day trips or when using a car to reach the starting point. Examples include On the Quiberon peninsula — loop along the V45 and Aber Wrac'h Littorale Loop.

Brittany is an excellent region for family cycling, especially along its numerous 'Greenways' (Voies Vertes) and canal towpaths like the Nantes-Brest Canal. These routes are typically flat, traffic-free, and offer shaded paths, making them safe and enjoyable for all ages. The La Littorale Cycle Route: Bénodet and Île-Tudy Loop is a great easy option for families.

Brittany's routes often pass by significant historical and natural sites. You can cycle past the dramatic cliffs of the Crozon Peninsula, explore the unique rock formations of the Pink Granite Coast, or visit historic towns like Saint-Malo and Dinan. The region also features ancient megalithic sites and enchanting forests like Brocéliande. For specific natural attractions, you might encounter highlights like The Devil's Cave or Poulifer Cave.

The touring cycling routes in Brittany are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an impressive average rating of 4.4 stars from over 29,000 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse scenery, well-maintained paths, and the unique blend of coastal beauty and inland charm.

Yes, Brittany's extensive cycling network, including EuroVelo routes like the Vélodyssée (EuroVelo 1) and Vélomaritime (EuroVelo 4), connects many major towns and cities. These routes allow you to cycle between destinations like Roscoff, Nantes, Saint-Malo, and Dinard, offering a blend of scenic beauty and cultural exploration. For example, the La Vélomaritime: Lannion to Perros-Guirec connects these two coastal towns.

Many of Brittany's cycling routes are accessible via public transport, particularly those connecting larger towns and cities. Regional trains (TER) often allow bicycles, though it's advisable to check specific routes and times for bike carriage policies. Buses may also offer limited bike transport options. Planning ahead is recommended to ensure a smooth connection between public transport and your chosen cycling route.

Yes, the Vélomaritime (EuroVelo 4) offers several stunning sections in Brittany, showcasing the region's coastal beauty. You can explore routes like La Vélomaritime: Lannion to Perros-Guirec, which takes you through the Pink Granite Coast, or La Vélomaritime — loop between Saint-Malo and Cancale, offering views of the Emerald Coast.

Brittany is ideal for multi-day touring cycling trips, thanks to its extensive network of long-distance routes like the Vélodyssée and Vélomaritime, as well as the Nantes-Brest Canal. These routes are designed with accommodation and services in mind, allowing cyclists to plan journeys lasting several days or even weeks, exploring different regions of Brittany at a leisurely pace.