The best gravel rides around Dijon

Gravel biking around Dijon offers a diverse landscape, from the renowned Burgundy vineyards to historic canal paths and extensive forest tracks. You'll encounter a mix of asphalt, dirt roads, and unpaved paths. The region features rolling hills, limestone cliffs, and dense woodlands, providing varied surfaces for all types of gravel cyclists.

Yes, several routes are suitable for beginners or families. The region's canal paths, like those along the Burgundy Canal, offer gentler, often paved options. A good starting point is the Guillaume Gate – Saint-Michel de Dijon church loop from Dijon-Ville, which is a moderate 42.9 km route with relatively low elevation gain, making it accessible for those new to gravel biking.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Dijon area offers routes with significant elevation gain and varied surfaces. The Vineyards of Chambertin – Clos de Vougeot Castle loop from Reulle-Vergy is a difficult 75.6 km path traversing the Burgundy vineyards with over 760 meters of ascent. Another demanding option is the Naizou Fountain – Lake Kir loop from Ouges, a difficult 79.7 km route with nearly 1000 meters of climbing.

Many gravel routes in Dijon pass through picturesque vineyards and along the Burgundy Canal. You can also explore natural attractions like Combe Lavaux, a nature reserve known for its limestone cliffs and dry grasslands. Other notable spots include Celerons viewpoint, offering expansive views, and the recreational area around Lake Kir.

Yes, many gravel routes around Dijon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Lake Kir – Lac Kir Beach loop from Dijon, which is a difficult 46.7 km ride, and the Gevrey-Chambertin – Burgundy Canal loop from Gevrey-Chambertin, a moderate 51.3 km route that combines vineyards and canal paths.

The Burgundy region is generally pleasant for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming vineyards and mild temperatures, while autumn provides stunning fall foliage. Summers can be warm, but routes along canals or through forests offer shade. Winter riding is possible, but some trails might be muddy or require specific gear.

Many routes start from towns and villages around Dijon, where public parking is often available. For example, routes like the Vineyards of Chambertin – Clos de Vougeot Castle loop begin from Reulle-Vergy, and the Gevrey-Chambertin – Burgundy Canal loop starts from Gevrey-Chambertin, both likely offering local parking options. For routes closer to Dijon, consider parking near Lake Kir or at designated spots within the city that provide easy access to trailheads.

Dijon itself is well-connected by public transport. Some routes, such as the Clos de Vougeot Castle – Vineyards of Chambertin loop, start from Gare Dijon Porte Neuve, making them accessible by train. Local buses might also serve some of the smaller towns and villages that act as starting points for other trails, though direct access to remote trailheads might be limited.

While specific dog-friendly designations for gravel routes are not always available, many natural areas and forest tracks around Dijon are generally suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control. Routes along the Burgundy Canal or through less populated forest areas like those found in the Morvan Regional Natural Park (a bit further afield) could be good options. Always check local regulations regarding dogs in nature reserves or vineyards.

The gravel biking experience around Dijon is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 240 reviews. Riders frequently praise the region's diverse terrain, which includes scenic vineyard paths, tranquil canal towpaths, and engaging forest tracks. The mix of surfaces and options for various skill levels, from moderate rides to challenging climbs, is also a highlight for many.

For those looking for longer rides, the region offers several options that can be extended or combined. The Naizou Fountain – Lake Kir loop from Ouges is a challenging 79.7 km route. Additionally, the Burgundy Canal itself extends for 242 kilometers, providing a foundation for multi-day or very long-distance gravel tours, often utilizing its towpaths and connecting to other regional trails.

Yes, the towns and villages throughout the Burgundy region, especially those within or near the vineyards and along the canals, offer numerous opportunities for cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Dijon itself has a wide range of options. Smaller villages like Gevrey-Chambertin or Reulle-Vergy, which serve as starting points for some routes, will typically have local establishments where you can refuel or stay overnight.