The best traffic-free bike rides around Benoisey

There are over 40 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Benoisey, offering a variety of experiences for all skill levels. This includes 6 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 13 more challenging options.

The routes around Benoisey traverse diverse and appealing landscapes. You'll cycle through the lush green hills and forests of the Auxois region, often following tranquil canal towpaths like the Canal de Bourgogne, or quiet country roads. The nearby Morvan Regional Natural Park also offers unspoiled countryside with small fields and undulating hills.

Yes, the region is well-suited for family cycling, especially along the canal towpaths which provide flat and accessible terrain. Routes like the Bike loop from Les Laumes Alésia are rated as easy and offer a pleasant, traffic-free experience for all ages.

Many routes offer access to significant historical and cultural sites. You can cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fontenay Abbey, or explore the MuséoParc Alésia, which delves into the history of Caesar and Vercingetorix. The town of Montbard also offers attractions like the Parc Buffon and Musée Buffon. Consider the MuséoParc Alésia – Fontenay Abbey loop from Fain-lès-Montbard for a route connecting two major sites.

The best time to cycle in Burgundy, including Benoisey, is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Château de Courcelles – Montbard loop from Benoisey, which offers a moderate 32 km ride.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.65 stars from over 300 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the beautiful scenery along the canals and through the countryside, and the accessibility of historical sites like Fontenay Abbey. The traffic-free nature of many paths is a frequently highlighted benefit.

While Benoisey itself is a small village, nearby towns like Montbard have train stations (Gare de Montbard) that connect to major cities. From Montbard, you can often find local transport options or cycle directly to some of the starting points for routes. For example, the MuséoParc Alésia – Statue of Vercingetorix loop starts from Les Laumes Alésia, which is also accessible by train.

Yes, especially along the Canal de Bourgogne and in the villages you pass through. Many small towns and villages offer cafes, restaurants, and bakeries where you can refuel. It's always a good idea to carry some snacks and water, especially on longer stretches, but you'll find opportunities for refreshments in places like Montbard, Semur-en-Auxois, and Flavigny-sur-Ozerain.

Parking is generally available in the larger towns and villages that serve as common starting points for these routes. For instance, you can find parking in Benoisey itself, Montbard, or near attractions like MuséoParc Alésia or Fontenay Abbey. When planning your route, check the specific starting point for available parking facilities.

While individual routes around Benoisey are typically day trips, the region is part of the larger "Tour of Burgundy by bike," an impressive 800 km network of cycle paths. Many sections, including those along the Burgundy Canal and Canal du Nivernais, are designated greenways, offering extensive traffic-free cycling. You can link several routes or explore longer sections of these regional networks for multi-day adventures. For more information on the broader network, you can visit France Vélo Tourisme.