The best gravel rides around Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg
4.3
(27)
227
riders
44
rides
Gravel biking around Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg is characterized by routes that often follow the Loire River, offering flat to gently rolling terrain. The landscape features a mix of riverside paths, agricultural fields, and historical sites such as châteaux and abbeys. Elevations are generally low, with some routes incorporating minor hills.
Best gravel bike trails around Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur loop from Montsoreau, a 16.0 miles (25.8 km) trail that takes 1…
Last updated: May 22, 2026
4.1
(9)
75
riders
25.8km
01:24
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.2
(5)
75
riders
52.5km
02:57
170m
170m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.8
(8)
55
riders
56.4km
03:17
420m
420m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.0
(1)
11
riders
52.4km
03:37
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
riders
47.7km
03:03
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The sights are good but the terrain is not especially after high winds and heavy rain. Some people might find it tricky to navigate.
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For those who want to discover some art objects.
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
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A castle-palace of the Dukes of Anjou in the 19th and 19th centuries, the Château de Saumur, where King René resided, is the last example of the princely palaces built by the Valois dynasty. It served as the residence of the city's governors, a prison, and later an arms and ammunition depot. It was purchased by the city in 1906 to house the municipal museum, now the Musée de France. Today, we discover the rich collections scattered throughout the former apartments of the Dukes of Anjou in an educational museography. Want to know more? Click here: https://www.ot-saumur.fr/en/castles-and-country-houses/Saumurcastle-5261718/
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice there for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. In February 2025, a fire broke out. Source Wikipedia
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. A fire broke out in February 2025. Source Wikipedia
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Very nice gravel along the banks of the Loire. Know that you are not alone here. Enjoy together, each at their own pace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
There are over 50 gravel bike routes available around Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking routes in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
The routes in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg cater to various abilities. You'll find a few easy trails, but the majority are moderate (around 29 routes) or difficult (around 20 routes), providing options for both casual riders and those seeking a challenge.
What scenic views can I expect on gravel bike routes around Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
Gravel biking in this region is characterized by picturesque views along the Loire River, agricultural fields, and charming villages. Many routes offer glimpses of historical sites like châteaux and abbeys, blending natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Are there historical sites or landmarks to see along the gravel bike trails?
Yes, the area is rich in history. Many routes pass by or near significant landmarks. For instance, the Fontevraud Royal Abbey – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop from Saumur takes you past the historic Fontevraud Abbey. You can also explore highlights like Montsoreau Castle and Château de Saumur, which are often visible from or accessible near the trails.
Are there easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners?
While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are a few easier options available. For example, the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur loop from Montsoreau is an accessible 16-mile (25.8 km) route that offers pleasant riverside views without excessive challenge.
Are there any challenging gravel trails for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur loop from Varrains offer a more demanding experience. This route covers over 35 miles (56.5 km) and features significant elevation changes, exploring more extensive riverside landscapes.
Are there circular gravel bike routes in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur loop from Montsoreau and the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – View of Château de Chinon loop from Montsoreau.
What is the best season for gravel biking in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
The Loire Valley generally offers pleasant conditions for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall colors. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are often preferred.
Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
Many routes start from villages or towns along the Loire, such as Montsoreau or Varrains, where public parking is typically available. It's advisable to check local parking options in your chosen starting village before your ride.
How long do gravel bike rides typically take in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
Ride durations vary significantly based on the route length and your pace. Shorter routes, like the 16-mile Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur loop from Montsoreau, can be completed in under two hours. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Fontevraud Royal Abbey – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop from Saumur (32.6 miles), might take over four hours.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg?
The gravel biking routes in Saint-Cyr-En-Bourg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 45 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse scenery, the blend of riverside paths and historical sites, and the well-maintained gravel surfaces.
Are there options for pub stops or places to eat along the routes?
Given the routes often pass through or near charming villages and towns along the Loire, you'll find opportunities for refreshment. Many villages offer local cafés, bakeries, or small restaurants where you can stop for a break and a bite to eat.
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