The best cycling routes around Etang Du Puits
3.5
(13)
117
riders
14
rides
Touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits are characterized by flat terrain and extensive wooded areas. The Etang Du Puits, a large artificial lake, is surrounded by a preserved natural environment featuring diverse tree species such as oaks and pines. This area, part of the Sologne natural region, offers mostly gentle gradients, making it suitable for various cycling abilities. Routes often provide views of the calm lake waters and traverse through natural habitats.
Best touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits
- The most popular touring cycling route is Étang du Puits – Puits Lock loop from Étang du Puits, a 28.2 miles (45.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers a comprehensive exploration of the lake's surroundings and nearby features.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Étang du Puits loop from Étang du Puits, an easy 14.5 miles (23.3 km) path. This route provides scenic views of the lake and its wooded borders.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Stuart Castle – Étang du Puits loop from Les Blancs, a 21.3 miles (34.3 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 26 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Etang Du Puits is defined by calm lake waters, extensive wooded areas, and flat terrain. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to moderate routes.
- The routes in Etang Du Puits are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. More than 120 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Etang Du Puits's varied terrain.
Last updated: October 5, 2026
1.0
(1)
30
riders
45.4km
02:39
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
23.3km
01:19
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
23.3km
01:21
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
25.8km
01:38
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
4
riders
21.6km
01:30
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The old Canal de la Sauldre, once built to transport wood, lime, and peat, meanders through the forests of the Sologne. Today, the water is calm and wooded, but the old locks, bridges, and towpaths still reveal exactly how it once worked. It's an ideal walking route.
4
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This lock was once part of the Canal de la Sauldre. Water from the Étang du Puits was regulated here to allow ships to pass and maintain the canal's water level. Now it's simply a beautiful spot to pause for a moment...
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The lake covers 180 hectares, making it the largest in the Sologne. Originally created in 1864 to supply the Sauldre canal with water. Now partly developed as a recreational area: beach area, hiking trails, water sports (sailing, ski-nautique, pedalo), and an ornithological reserve. For nature lovers: you'll find a rich bird life (cendré heron, grèbe huppé, etc.) and diverse flora along the banks. For families: picnic areas, a beach area in the summer, and playgrounds.
4
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Castle built during the Renaissance by Robert Stuart then Louise de Keroualle, Duchess of Aubigny and Porsmouth. Only the facade and one of the two wings exist today. It is one of the major witnesses to the historical presence of the Scots in this city of character. It can be visited and is worth a look, notably with the ceiling of its large room which is all made of wood, shaped like the hull of an upside-down boat. Good to know: Franco-Scottish festivals take place every year in July.
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Castle built during the Renaissance by Robert Stuart then Louise de Keroualle, Duchess of Aubigny and Porsmouth. Only the facade and one of the two wings exist today. It is one of the major witnesses to the historical presence of the Scots in this city of character. It can be visited and is worth a look, notably with the ceiling of its large room which is all made of wood, shaped like the hull of an upside-down boat. Good to know: Franco-Scottish festivals take place every year in July.
2
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Canal which connects Blancafort (Cher) and Lamotte-Beuvron (Loir-et-Cher) and is 46,810 km long. It is the only canal in France not attached to any waterway, designed to improve agriculture in Sologne with drainage, irrigation and earth transport functions. Its construction began urgently in June 1848, after a vote by the National Assembly which wanted to occupy the Parisian workers left behind by the closure of the National Workshops.
1
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The largest pond in Sologne which combines rich natural environments, with fauna and flora that can be admired for hours, and facilities conducive to relaxation and swimming, with its beaches and activities on offer.
1
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One of the 22 locks of the Canal de la Sauldre. The Etang du Puits, with an area of 180 hectares, served as a buffer reservoir for the canal in order to supplement it with water when the Sauldre was not enough to supply it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Etang Du Puits?
There are 13 touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 8 easy routes, 4 moderate routes, and 1 more challenging option.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits?
The terrain around Etang Du Puits is generally flat, characterized by gentle gradients. Routes often traverse extensive wooded areas with diverse tree species like oaks and pines, and provide scenic views of the calm lake waters. Some routes may include unpaved segments, but many are on mostly paved surfaces.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Etang Du Puits offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Étang du Puits loop from Étang du Puits is an easy 14.5 miles (23.3 km) path with scenic views of the lake. Another short, easy option is the Étang du Puits loop from Clémont, which is 4.6 miles (7.4 km) and leads through wooded areas.
What are the best times of year to go touring cycling in Etang Du Puits?
The best times to cycle around Etang Du Puits are generally during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for enjoying the wooded areas and lake views. Summer (July and August) also provides the added benefit of a supervised swimming beach at the lake, allowing you to combine cycling with other leisure activities.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular option is the Étang du Puits – Puits Lock loop from Étang du Puits, a moderate 28.2 miles (45.4 km) trail that comprehensively explores the lake's surroundings.
What natural features or points of interest can I see while cycling around Etang Du Puits?
While cycling, you can observe the diverse natural beauty of the Sologne region. The Etang Du Puits itself is the largest lake in Sologne, surrounded by a wooded park that is an ornithological reserve. You might spot various bird species like grey herons and great crested grebes, and the area features Sologne essences like firs, brooms, and heather. The southern part of the site offers panoramic views of the calm waters.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Etang Du Puits?
The touring cycling routes in Etang Du Puits are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful, scenic environment, the flat terrain suitable for various abilities, and the opportunity to combine cycling with other leisure activities available at the lake.
Is there parking available for cyclists at Etang Du Puits?
Yes, Etang Du Puits is a popular tourist attraction with a leisure base, so parking facilities are available. The area is bordered by departmental roads D765 and D176E, making it accessible by car with designated parking areas for visitors.
Are there any cafes or places to eat near the cycling routes?
Yes, Etang Du Puits is well-equipped for visitors. You'll find snack bars and picnic areas on-site, providing convenient stops for refreshments during or after your ride. For more options, nearby towns would offer additional cafes and restaurants.
Can I combine touring cycling with other activities at Etang Du Puits?
Absolutely! Etang Du Puits is a leisure hub. Besides cycling, you can enjoy a supervised swimming beach (in July and August), children's play areas, pedal boats, volleyball, and French bowls. Water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and water skiing are also available through local clubs, making it easy to combine your ride with other recreational activities.
How long do the touring cycling routes around Etang Du Puits typically take to complete?
The duration of routes varies depending on their length and your pace. For instance, the moderate Étang du Puits – Puits Lock loop from Étang du Puits, at 28.2 miles (45.4 km), typically takes about 2 hours 45 minutes. Shorter, easy routes like the Étang du Puits – Winding Road by Étang du Puits loop from Clémont (14.5 miles / 23.3 km) can be completed in around 1 hour 20 minutes.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes that explore beyond the immediate lake area?
Yes, some routes extend further into the surrounding region. The Stuart Castle – Étang du Puits loop from Argent-sur-Sauldre is a moderate 21.3 miles (34.4 km) route that takes you from Argent-sur-Sauldre, offering a broader exploration of the area while still incorporating the beauty of Etang Du Puits.
Most popular routes around Etang Du Puits
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