The best traffic-free bike rides around Briouze
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No traffic road cycling routes around Briouze traverse the varied landscapes of the Orne department in Normandy, France. The region is characterized by the tranquil "Normandy bocage," a mosaic of pastures, hedgerows, and woodlands, alongside sections of the Andaines Forest and the Grand Hazé Wetlands Reserve. Terrain includes gentle paths and river valleys, with some routes offering moderate elevation changes. These features provide a diverse environment for road cyclists seeking routes without vehicle traffic.
Best no traffic road cycling routes…
Last updated: May 24, 2026
7
riders
46.1km
02:20
640m
640m
This moderate 28.6-mile (46.1 km) road cycling loop along the Orne River in Suisse Normande offers scenic views and 2085 feet of elevation g
13
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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14
riders
104km
04:34
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
62.5km
02:55
750m
750m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
28.7km
01:16
210m
210m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
An artificial pool situated in a wild and beautiful landscape, surrounded by forests. Supervised swimming is possible.
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The town has two old market halls dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. While one of them has been closed for renovation into a community hall, the second has remained open and hosts local events and hikers looking for a pleasant spot to picnic and rest.
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For those who are fond of mountainous landscapes in Normandy: the Suisse Normande.
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2 small halls converted into a rest area for a well-deserved break
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Gardens open Monday to Friday in summer, closed for lunch - check website
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There was already a church in Bellou-en-Houlme in 1053, when the building was donated by Guillaume de la Ferté-Macé to the Abbey of Saint-Julien in Tours. The bell tower-porch appears to be of Romanesque origin, having been built in the 11th century and then remodeled in the 12th century. Several architectural elements bear witness to this: "the semicircular arches, the small round interior door above the gallery, the narrow openings of the bell tower, the modillions bordering the dripstone" recall the 11th century, while "the pointed arches which are inscribed in the semicircular arches and especially the underside of the tower where the tore-shaped arcades intersect, each ending in a abacus" (Le Pays Bas-Normand, 1962 n°2) show that the tower was modified at the end of the 12th century. The rest of the building was largely transformed during the first half of the 18th century, as indicated by the date 1718 inscribed on the lintel of the door of the south arm of the transept and that of 1749, inscribed on the lintel of one of the south bays of the chevet. The church was originally surrounded by a cemetery, transferred outside the town in 1840.
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This church was built in the 16th century. It was remodeled and enlarged starting in 1850 (with the construction of chapels, the choir, and the sacristy). The Heritage Foundation organized a fundraiser for the restoration of the church: the purpose of the fundraiser is to restore the exterior of the church (stained glass windows and bell tower), as well as the interior (altarpiece, master paintings, baptismal font, fixing the pews to the floor, Stations of the Cross). The cost of this work is estimated at approximately €70,000. February 9, 2022: Renovation work on the church building completed, carried out by the Beauvain History and Heritage Association (restoration of the altarpieces, stained glass windows, baptismal font, as well as the roof, bell tower, clock mechanism, the Calvary on the Rock, the church door, and the heating system).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Briouze?
There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Briouze. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 8 easy routes, 24 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes near Briouze?
The no-traffic road cycling routes around Briouze primarily traverse the tranquil "Normandy bocage," characterized by pastures, hedgerows, and woodlands. You'll find dedicated greenways built on former railway lines, offering flat and scenic paths. Some routes also venture into the serene Andaines Forest or feature gentle paths along river valleys. While many routes are mostly paved, the broader Orne department also offers the rugged, verdant relief of "Norman Switzerland" for those seeking more challenging ascents.
Are there easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes in Briouze?
Yes, Briouze offers 8 easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes. The Notre-Dame Church – Col du signal de Charlemagne loop from Bellou-en-Houlme is a great example, covering 15.9 km with minimal elevation gain. The Velo'Bocages greenway is also ideal for families, providing flat and safe paths through the countryside.
Are there more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists, there are 24 moderate and 2 difficult no-traffic road cycling routes. A challenging option is the Col du signal de Charlemagne – Chapelle de Longuenoe loop from Bellou-en-Houlme, which spans over 104 km with more than 1000 meters of elevation gain. Another moderate route is Orne by Bike: From the Lake to the Orne Gorges, offering 46 km with over 600 meters of climbing.
What are the typical distances for no-traffic road cycling routes in the Briouze area?
The distances for no-traffic road cycling routes around Briouze vary significantly. You can find shorter, easy routes like the Notre-Dame Church – Col du signal de Charlemagne loop from Bellou-en-Houlme at 15.9 km, up to much longer, more challenging rides such as the Col du signal de Charlemagne – Chapelle de Longuenoe loop from Bellou-en-Houlme, which is over 104 km long. Many routes fall in the 20-60 km range, offering diverse options for different preferences.
What natural attractions can I see along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Many routes will take you through the serene Andaines Forest, known for its wildlife. You can also cycle near the Lande Forêt Pond, which is accessible via a secure route from the Briouze-Bagnoles greenway. The Grand Hazé Wetlands Reserve, a Natura 2000 site, is another significant natural area nearby, rich in flora and fauna. Some routes also offer views of the Path along the Rouvre river.
Are there any historical landmarks or interesting towns to visit near the cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers several interesting landmarks and towns. You might pass by the Old Saint-Aubert Church or catch a glimpse of Rabodanges Castle. The charming village of La Carneille is also a notable point of interest. Further afield, the spa town of Bagnoles-de-l'Orne and the medieval town of Domfront offer rich history and architecture.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road cycling around Briouze?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the best conditions for no-traffic road cycling around Briouze. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the Normandy bocage and forests are at their most vibrant. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Are there circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Briouze are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the La Roche d'Oëtre – La Carneille loop from Chênedouit is a moderate 62.5 km circular route, perfect for exploring the diverse landscapes of the area.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about no-traffic road cycling in Briouze?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the beautiful scenery of the Normandy bocage and forests, and the well-maintained greenways that make for a pleasant and safe cycling experience.
Where can I find parking for no-traffic road cycling trails near Briouze?
Parking is generally available in or near the starting points of many routes, especially in towns like Briouze, Bellou-en-Houlme, or Chênedouit. For routes utilizing the Velo'Bocages greenway, look for designated parking areas in towns along the route, such as Briouze or Bagnoles-de-l'Orne.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the no-traffic routes?
While many routes pass through rural areas, you'll find opportunities for refreshments in the towns and villages along the way. Briouze itself has amenities, and routes that connect to larger towns like Bagnoles-de-l'Orne or La Ferté-Macé will offer cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.
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