The best traffic-free bike rides around Buffon
4.6
(371)
1,437
riders
30
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Touring cycling around Buffon, located in the Côte-d'Or department of eastern France, offers routes through lush green landscapes of hills, forests, and rivers. The region is characterized by the tranquil Burgundy Canal, which provides extensive "voie verte" paths ideal for no traffic touring cycling. Cyclists can explore the scenic Brenne Valley, offering panoramic views, and enjoy mostly paved surfaces with minimal elevation gain. This area provides a network of routes suitable for various skill levels, focusing on car-free experiences.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Buffon
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Buffon's Big Forge – Canal de Bourgogne loop from Buffon, a 27.0 miles (43.5 km) trail that takes about 3 hours to complete. This route follows the Burgundy Canal, passing by the historic Grande Forge de Buffon.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard, an easy 16.4 miles (26.3 km) path. This loop offers pleasant scenery around Montbard with gentle gradients.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Montbard lock – Buffon's Big Forge loop from Montbard, a 46.4 miles (74.7 km) trail leading through the canal-side landscape, often completed in about 4 hours 45 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Buffon is defined by canal-side paths, rolling hills, and views over the Brenne Valley. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy family-friendly rides to longer moderate routes.
- The routes in Buffon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.7 stars from more than 300 reviews. More than 1,400 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Buffon's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.6
(28)
135
riders
43.6km
02:59
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(46)
150
riders
26.3km
01:53
60m
60m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(6)
33
riders
48.8km
03:08
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
68
riders
69.5km
04:43
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
9
riders
26.7km
01:42
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Buffon
Tips from the Community
Step into the Middle Ages - another incredible place (incidentally, the film set of the movie “Chocolat” with Johnny Depp)
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An interestingly designed public space near the bridge over the Brenne River, a prime spot with a view, a bridgehead, and a city terrace. Designed by local architects Atelier B2A, 2019.
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In addition to strolling around the village, you can freely visit (and for free) the anise museum, discover the old workshops, the crypt of the abbey, and end up in the shop and buy small anise candies with different flavors.
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The factory has been restored in a nostalgic and fantastic museum style, and the aniseed candies are cult objects.
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The Abbey of Fontenay, like all monasteries and places of worship, was, of course, founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding significance, it has also been honored with the title of "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The German-language television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites around the world in quarter-hour segments. One episode also deals with this abbey, and the website reads: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monastic ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls its followers to return to early Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks establish their first monastery, "Citeaux," after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The order grows rapidly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread throughout France, even to Germany. The Fontenay Abbey is also founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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Departmental boundary marker between Yonne and Côte d'Or
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Impressive quarry overlooking the Burgundy Canal.
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The Abbey of Fontenay was, like all monasteries and places of worship, of course founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding importance, it has also been "ennobled" by UNESCO with the title of "World Cultural Heritage". The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites all over the world in quarter-hour contributions. One episode also deals with this abbey, on the website you can read: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monks' ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls on its followers to return to original Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks found their first monastery "Citeaux", after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The religious order grows quickly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread across France and into Germany. The Fontenay monastery was founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Buffon?
There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Buffon, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels for a peaceful exploration of the region.
What is the best time of year for traffic-free touring cycling in Buffon?
The best time for traffic-free touring cycling in Buffon is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, and the lush landscapes along the Burgundy Canal and Brenne Valley are at their most vibrant. Winter cycling is possible but can be cold, and some services might be limited.
What are the general difficulty levels of the traffic-free touring cycling routes?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Buffon cater to various skill levels. You'll find 4 easy routes, 19 moderate routes, and 11 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for everyone, from leisurely rides to more demanding tours.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I explore along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Many routes offer access to significant local attractions. You can cycle past the impressive Buffon's Big Forge, an 18th-century industrial masterpiece, or visit Parc Buffon in Montbard, which offers historical gardens and panoramic views of the Brenne Valley. The UNESCO World Heritage site, Fontenay Abbey, is also accessible from some routes, providing a rich historical and cultural experience.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Buffon area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An excellent example is the Buffon's Big Forge – Canal de Bourgogne loop from Buffon, which offers a moderate 43.5 km ride along the scenic canal and past the historic forge.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes suitable for children?
Absolutely. The routes along the Burgundy Canal are particularly well-suited for families due to their mostly flat terrain and car-free environment. The Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard is an easy 26.3 km route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many of the traffic-free routes, especially those along the canal towpaths and greenways, are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept on a leash where required. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain, and carry enough water for both of you.
Where can I find parking for the no-traffic bike trails in Buffon?
Parking is generally available in and around the main towns like Buffon and Montbard, often near the starting points of popular routes or along the Burgundy Canal. Look for designated parking areas in town centers or near canal access points. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Buffon?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Buffon, with an average score of 4.7 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free environment, the picturesque scenery along the Burgundy Canal, and the opportunity to combine cycling with visits to historical sites like the Grande Forge and Parc Buffon.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, especially along the Burgundy Canal, you'll find charming villages and towns that offer cafes, restaurants, and small shops where you can stop for refreshments. Montbard, for instance, is a good hub for amenities. It's always a good idea to check opening hours, especially outside of peak season.
How can I reach Buffon by public transport to start a cycling tour?
Buffon is located near Montbard, which has a TGV train station, making it accessible by public transport. From Montbard, you can often find local bus services or taxis to reach Buffon or other starting points for your cycling tour. Check regional transport schedules in advance for the most up-to-date information.
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