The best traffic-free bike rides around Courchamps
4.5
(17)
148
riders
16
rides
No traffic gravel bike trails around Courchamps are primarily situated within the Anjou region, characterized by its diverse landscapes. The area features riverbanks, hedged farmlands, and dense forests, providing varied terrain for gravel biking. Routes often follow the Loire River and its tributaries, winding through vineyards and past historical geological formations. The region's topography includes gentle hills and river valleys, offering a mix of gradients suitable for gravel cycling.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Courchamps
- The most popular…
Last updated: May 23, 2026
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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15
riders
65.5km
03:53
630m
630m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
96.4km
05:40
830m
830m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
94.6km
05:27
260m
260m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Courchamps
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 no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Courchamps?
There are 12 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Courchamps featured in this guide. These routes offer a range of experiences, from moderate to more challenging rides, ensuring a peaceful journey away from vehicle traffic.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails near Courchamps?
The Courchamps area, particularly in Anjou, offers diverse terrain for gravel biking. You'll find routes along riverbanks, through hedged farmlands, and into dense forests. Many trails also wind through picturesque vineyards, especially if you venture towards the AOC Saumur wine production area. The region's connection to the Loire River means many routes offer scenic views of waterways.
Are there any challenging car-free gravel trails for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 2 difficult-rated car-free gravel trails around Courchamps. One notable option is the View of the Loire – Château de Saumur loop from Saumur, which covers over 96 km with significant elevation changes, offering a demanding yet rewarding experience.
Can I find family-friendly or beginner gravel biking routes without traffic?
While this guide focuses on moderate to difficult routes, the broader region of Anjou is known for its extensive network of trails, some of which are suitable for families and beginners. Look for routes that stick to the flatter sections along the Loire River or its tributaries, which often provide gentler gradients and scenic, traffic-free paths. Always check the route details for elevation and surface type to ensure it matches your family's skill level.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
Many routes offer opportunities to explore historical and natural attractions. You might cycle past impressive structures like the Château de Saumur or the Montreuil-Bellay Castle. The region also features unique geological elements such as dolmens and troglodyte dwellings, often integrated into the trails. The Loire Riverside Gravel Trail itself is a highlight, offering stunning views.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Courchamps that are car-free?
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes around Courchamps are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Château de Saumur – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop from Saumur is a fantastic circular option, offering over 52 km of traffic-free riding.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Courchamps?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Courchamps, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning riverside views, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and vineyards away from busy roads.
What is the best season for no-traffic gravel biking in Courchamps?
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best seasons for gravel biking in Courchamps. During these times, the weather is typically mild, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can also be pleasant, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially muddy sections, especially after rain.
Are there any gravel routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. Given the region's diverse landscapes, many routes provide excellent scenic viewpoints. Trails along the Loire River, such as the Le Thoureil Village – View of the Loire loop from Saumur, offer panoramic vistas of the river and its surroundings. Routes that climb into the rolling hills or through vineyards will also present numerous opportunities for breathtaking views.
Can I access these traffic-free gravel trails using public transport?
While specific public transport links directly to every trailhead might be limited, major towns like Saumur, which serve as starting points for several routes, are generally well-connected by regional trains or buses. From these towns, you can often cycle to the start of the traffic-free sections. It's recommended to check local public transport schedules and bike carriage policies in advance.
Are there any routes that pass through vineyards or offer opportunities for wine tasting?
Yes, the Courchamps area is part of the AOC Saumur wine production region, especially if you are in Anjou. Many gravel routes, like the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur Castle loop from Varrains, will take you through picturesque vineyards. While the trails themselves are traffic-free, you'll often find opportunities to visit local wineries or enjoy wine tasting in nearby villages, adding a cultural dimension to your ride.
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