The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Herbiers
4.2
(56)
351
riders
36
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Les Herbiers traverse the diverse "bocage" landscape of the Vendée region in France. This area features rolling hills and valleys, carved by rivers such as the Grande Maine and Petit Lay. Cyclists will encounter wooded areas, including Bois du Dard and Bois Vert, alongside several lakes like Lac de la Tricherie and Lac de la Bultière. Elevated points such as Mont des Alouettes, at 231 meters, provide expansive views.
Best no traffic touring cycling…
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.0
(6)
22
riders
26.4km
01:54
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
19
riders
24.3km
02:19
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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21
riders
36.7km
03:13
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
12
riders
20.9km
01:22
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
41.5km
03:01
270m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Les Herbiers
Tips from the Community
Pretty place with panoramic view, mill and beautiful little chapel
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The wars of Vendée
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Great lake to take a dip during an outing. There is a campsite for an evening bivouac.
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A very quiet place for a picnic, near the Forêt Verte pond, also suitable for a quick swim.
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This castle has a rich history of use as private property, as a place of scientific experimentation in the 18th century, and even as a place of refuge for young monks and theology students. Information on the history of the castle: https://www.lesherbiers.fr/decouvert/histoire-patrimoine/patrimoine/46-chateau-du-boistissandeau.html Property of the Vendée department, the castle cannot be visited. Managed by the association "Handi-Espoir" it is part of a remarkable and unique structure in France "the Maison d'Accueil Familial le Boistissandeau" which allows the joint reception of disabled adults with their elderly parents.
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Long before the discovery of electricity and the associated inventions, our ancestors discovered the possibility of harnessing the power of the elements - which on the one hand were useful, but on the other hand could also be a threat as a force of nature - for various purposes. A suitable example of the human ingenuity of previous generations is such a mill: the heavy millstones with which, for example, grain was ground into grain or oil was pressed, could be powered with the help of water or - as here on the Mont des Alouettes - the wind , whose strength the covered wings have absorbed. Hardly any of them still fulfill their original functions today, but fortunately some have at least been preserved as evidence of the old days.
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A total of eight windmills were built on this site, two of which survive, one of which is still in operation. A chapel was also built there in 1828, but it is interesting to note that it was not completed and inaugurated until 1968.
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Here you can have a peaceful run through the woods. The exposed nature of the nearby Mont des Alouettes is offset here by the presence of trees.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Les Herbiers?
There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Les Herbiers, offering a variety of experiences for all skill levels. These routes are designed to provide a peaceful and scenic cycling experience away from vehicular traffic.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these car-free routes?
The no-traffic routes around Les Herbiers primarily traverse the picturesque 'bocage' landscape, characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and ancient hedgerows. You'll encounter natural wooded areas like Bois du Dard and Bois Vert, as well as scenic lakes such as Lac de la Bultière and Lac de la Tricherie. Some routes also offer elevated panoramic views from points like Mont des Alouettes.
Are there easy no-traffic routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 9 easy no-traffic touring cycling routes around Les Herbiers, perfect for beginners or families. These routes typically feature gentler terrain and shorter distances. An excellent option is the Boistissandeau Castle loop from Ardelay, which is 20.9 km long with minimal elevation gain, offering a relaxed ride.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions along these routes?
Many no-traffic routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past the historic Boistissandeau Castle, or visit the iconic Mont des Alouettes with its windmills and chapel, which offers expansive views. The Lac de la Bultière and Lac de la Tricherie are also popular spots for leisure and offer pleasant lakeside cycling sections.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Yes, most of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Les Herbiers are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the The Green Woods – Mont des Alouettes loop from Les Herbiers is a moderate 30 km circular route that showcases diverse scenery.
What is the best season for no-traffic touring cycling in the Vendée Bocage?
The best seasons for touring cycling in the Vendée Bocage are spring and autumn. During these times, the weather is generally mild, and the landscapes are particularly vibrant with blooming flowers or rich autumnal colors. Summer can also be pleasant, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat.
Can I find routes that offer challenging climbs without traffic?
Yes, the Haut Bocage Vendéen region offers routes with significant elevation gains for more athletic cyclists, even on no-traffic paths. The Mont des Alouettes – The Wall of the Alouettes loop from Les Herbiers is a challenging 41.4 km route with nearly 600 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout and rewarding views.
Are there any routes that pass by lakes or offer waterside cycling?
Absolutely. The region features several beautiful lakes. The Lac de la Tricherie – The Green Woods loop from Les Herbiers is a moderate 41.5 km route that includes sections along the shores of Lac de la Tricherie, a popular leisure hub. Lac de la Bultière also has a 15 km path around its perimeter suitable for cycling.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Les Herbiers?
The no-traffic touring cycling routes around Les Herbiers are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.17 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the diverse bocage landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that allow for a peaceful and immersive cycling experience away from cars.
Is there parking available near the starting points of these no-traffic routes?
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes start from towns or popular leisure areas like Lac de la Tricherie, where parking facilities are generally available. For routes starting directly from Les Herbiers, various public parking options can be found within the town.
Are there any specific routes that highlight historical sites?
Yes, some routes offer glimpses of the region's rich heritage. The Bike loop from Ardelay, for instance, starts near the medieval Ardelay Castle and allows you to explore the historical surroundings of the area.
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