The best cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent
4.3
(34)
333
riders
74
rides
Touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent are characterized by the presence of the Lac du Crescent and its dam, situated within a landscape featuring varied elevation. The area includes routes that navigate along the lake's shores, cross the dam, and ascend to local cols, indicating a mix of flat and hilly terrain. The region's geography offers opportunities for cycling through areas with both water features and higher ground.
Best touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
7
riders
14.4km
01:03
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
25.1km
01:49
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
9.49km
00:39
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
20
riders
39.1km
03:43
960m
960m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(2)
11
riders
38.0km
02:30
540m
540m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Crescent Lake owes its name to its crescent shape. It is popular with local fishermen and also with swimmers who can visit its beach to cool off. Camping is also permitted. This lake, with its exceptionally bucolic setting, was chosen as the location in 2015 by Michel Gondry for filming his movie Microbe and Gazoil.
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There is no possibility of touring the lake by mountain bike along the banks, but rather by taking the road. However, check that the road that passes over the dam is open (temporarily closed until June 25, 2025 for us!).
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A pleasant stop near the Crescent, with a slight detour from the GR Telephone 07 49 26 22 70
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Very dedicated owner who is restoring the old mill on a voluntary basis and at the same time uses it as a place to stroll and relax.
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Very worthwhile visit to this beautiful church
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A picturesque place on the way. Sculptures of farmers and their cow in front of a pretty flower bed. A great place to take a photo, and the owners won't mind.
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A true jewel of Burgundian Gothic art, the church of Saint Père sous Vézelay deserves a moment of attention. Built from the 13th to the 15th century and dedicated to the Virgin, it only became a parish church in the 16th century, succeeding the old Saint Pierre church which gave its name to the village and whose ruins can still be seen at the exit. south of the village. The 13th century bell tower, elegant and airy, 50m high, is visible for miles around. In the middle of the 19th century, the building was in a very advanced state of disrepair. However, Prosper Mérimée describes it as "a gothic cathedral in miniature". Viollet-le-Duc, then 26 years old, fell in love with the church of Saint Père, the restoration of which he launched in 1841. He worked until 1844 on the choir, the chapels and the nave. and in 1868, ends with the bell tower. However, due to a lack of resources, he practically does not intervene on the porch (or narthex). This part, which is the most striking because it evokes real stone lacework, was then restored by Boeswilwald between 1888 and 1889.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Barrage Du Crescent?
There are over 70 touring cycling routes in the Barrage Du Crescent area, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists of all levels.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers 4 easy touring cycling routes. A good option for a more relaxed ride is the Crescent Dam loop from Chézelles, which is just under 10 km and features moderate elevation changes, making it accessible for many.
What are the typical distances and elevations for touring routes in Barrage Du Crescent?
Routes vary significantly. You'll find shorter loops like the Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure at 14.4 km with around 300 meters of elevation gain, up to longer, more challenging rides such as the Col de Guitte Longue – Lake Crescent loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, which covers over 39 km with nearly 1000 meters of ascent.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent?
Many of the touring routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Lake Crescent – Crescent Dam loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure and the more challenging Lake Crescent – Col de Marigny loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure.
What kind of scenery can I expect on a touring bike ride around Barrage Du Crescent?
The routes primarily feature the scenic Lac du Crescent and its impressive dam. You'll cycle along the lake's shores, cross the dam itself, and ascend to local cols, offering a mix of waterside views and higher ground vistas. The landscape includes varied terrain, from relatively flat sections to significant climbs.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Barrage Du Crescent?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with milder temperatures and less crowded trails. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially around the lake, but be prepared for warmer weather. Winter cycling is possible but may require appropriate gear for colder temperatures.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Barrage Du Crescent?
The touring cycling routes around Barrage Du Crescent are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, the beautiful lake views, and the challenging climbs to the cols.
Are there any challenging routes for advanced touring cyclists?
Yes, Barrage Du Crescent offers 44 difficult touring cycling routes. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, consider the Notre-Dame Church – Vézelay loop from Chastellux-sur-Cure, which is over 41 km long and features significant elevation gain through varied landscapes.
Where can I find parking for the bike trails around Barrage Du Crescent?
Parking is typically available in the villages and towns near the starting points of the routes, such as Chastellux-sur-Cure or Chézelles. Specific parking information can often be found on the individual route pages on komoot or local tourism websites.
Are there places to eat or drink along the touring cycling routes?
While the routes themselves might not have frequent stops directly on the path, you can usually find cafes, restaurants, or small shops in the villages and towns that the routes pass through or start from. Planning your stops in advance is recommended, especially on longer rides.
Is public transport available to access the cycling routes in Barrage Du Crescent?
Public transport options directly to the trailheads might be limited in this rural area. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or regional train services to nearby towns and then plan your cycling route from there, or consider driving to a starting point.
Most popular routes around Barrage Du Crescent
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