4.3
(9)
122
riders
39
rides
Gravel biking around Thoraise offers routes through varied landscapes, characterized by river valleys and forested sections. The region features a mix of flat canal paths and rolling terrain with moderate climbs. Riders can expect to encounter both open countryside and areas with historical significance. The trails provide opportunities to explore the natural and cultural features of the Thoraise area.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
4.5
(2)
10
riders
49.0km
04:13
510m
510m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
6
riders
25.8km
01:51
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
8
riders
30.3km
01:56
300m
300m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
10
riders
35.0km
02:07
390m
390m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
3
riders
35.0km
02:31
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Imposing complex which is worth a visit.
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The Saint-Jean Cathedral of Besançon, also called Saint-Jean Saint-Étienne Cathedral of Besançon, is a Carolingian church, basilica, and cathedral in Franche-Comté in Besançon, built in the 3rd century and then rebuilt several times, notably in the 9th and 11th centuries; it includes Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque parts. The building is one of the few in France to have two opposing choirs; it houses about thirty paintings classified as historical monuments, an astronomical clock considered a masterpiece of its kind, as well as the Rose of Saint-Jean, a circular altar dating from the 11th century and entirely made of white marble. The cathedral is nestled at the foot of Mont Saint-Étienne near the citadel of Besançon, behind the Gallo-Roman Black Gate and facing the former episcopal palace of the Archbishopric of Besançon, on the road leading up to the citadel of Besançon.
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The surface is pleasant, but watch out for the gravel. Reserved bike lane. I found this path pleasant.
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A few benches with tables under a tree for shade, ideal for a short break
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A curiosity: the river tunnel under the citadel
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UNESCO World Heritage Site
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There are over 45 gravel bike trails documented around Thoraise on komoot. These routes offer a variety of experiences, primarily catering to moderate and difficult skill levels.
Gravel bike routes in Thoraise vary in length and duration. For example, the Saint-Vit done well done route is about 30.4 miles (49.0 km) and takes over 4 hours, while the Thoraise Canal Tunnel – Thoraise Lock loop from Torpes - Boussières is 16.0 miles (25.8 km) and typically completed in about 2 hours 15 minutes.
The gravel biking routes around Thoraise are generally categorized as moderate to difficult. There are no routes specifically marked as 'easy' in the current selection, so beginners should be prepared for some challenges, including elevation gains and varied terrain.
The region offers a diverse landscape for gravel biking. You can expect a mix of flat canal paths, rolling terrain with moderate climbs, and forested sections. Many routes also feature open countryside and areas with historical significance.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in Thoraise are designed as loops. For instance, the Thoraise Canal Tunnel – Thoraise Lock loop from Torpes - Boussières and the Citadel of Besançon – The Doubs loop from Grandfontaine are popular circular options.
The routes often pass by interesting sites. You might encounter the Thoraise Tunnel, ride alongside The Doubs river, or even explore areas near the Osselle Cave. The Citadel of Besançon – The Doubs loop from Grandfontaine specifically leads through historic landmarks and riverside paths.
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Thoraise, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winter riding is possible but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy or icy sections, especially in forested areas.
The gravel biking experience in Thoraise is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Riders often praise the varied terrain, which includes canal paths and forested areas, and the opportunities to explore historical sites like those found on the Citadel of Besançon – The Doubs loop from Grandfontaine.
Many routes in Thoraise offer scenic views, particularly those that follow river valleys or pass through elevated forested sections. While specific viewpoints aren't always marked, the diverse landscape ensures a picturesque ride, such as along the Doubs river or through the countryside surrounding the Small Wooden Bridge – Bois d'ambre saint vit loop from Saint-Vit.
While many routes are day trips, some, like the Saint-Vit done well done route at over 30 miles (49 km), offer a longer, more challenging experience. You can also link multiple routes together to create extended tours through the region's varied landscapes.
Yes, some routes, especially after rain or during wetter seasons, can be quite muddy. The Technical Section – Very Muddy Trail loop from Montferrand - Thoraise explicitly mentions 'Very Muddy Trail' in its description, indicating areas where you should expect challenging conditions.
Yes, the region features natural attractions like the Bout du Monde Waterfall. While not directly on every gravel route, some trails may pass nearby or offer access points to such natural monuments.


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