The best traffic-free bike rides around Onlay

There are over 30 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Onlay, offering a variety of distances and elevations for different skill levels. These routes are primarily located within the beautiful Morvan Regional Natural Park.

The routes around Onlay, situated in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, typically feature rolling hills and moderate elevation changes. For example, the Beautiful descent – Petit Bonheur Café loop from Chaumes de Grandry covers about 38 km with over 660 meters of ascent, while the Moulins-Engilbert – Limanton Castle loop from Moulins-Engilbert is around 46 km with over 420 meters of climbing. You can expect a mix of gentle slopes and more challenging ascents.

While most routes are moderate, there is at least one easy route available, making it suitable for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes often follow quieter departmental roads or designated 'voies vertes' (greenways) where traffic is minimal or non-existent.

The region around Onlay is rich in natural beauty. You can discover highlights such as the Dragne Waterfall, which is featured on routes like the Dragne waterfall – Petit Bonheur Café loop from Villapourçon. Other natural monuments in the wider area include the Sources of the Yonne and the Rangère Pond.

Yes, the area offers several historical points of interest. You can find routes passing by charming churches, like the one on the Eglise romane de Préporché – Saint-Honoré-les-Bains loop from Préporché. The region also boasts several castles, including Vandenesse Castle and Château de Saulières. Further afield, the Mont Beuvray and Bibracte Archaeological Site offers a glimpse into ancient history.

The best season for road cycling in the Morvan Regional Natural Park, including Onlay, is typically from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage.

Many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Onlay are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. This makes planning your trip more convenient, especially if you're driving to the starting point. An example is the View of the Morvan from Niault loop from Moulins-Engilbert.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.76 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning natural scenery of the Morvan, and the feeling of being immersed in nature away from traffic. The well-maintained, quiet roads are frequently highlighted as a major draw.

Yes, parking is generally available in the villages and towns that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Moulins-Engilbert, Villapourçon, or Préporché. Look for public parking areas, often near town centers or local amenities.

While many routes pass through small villages, amenities like cafes or bakeries might be spaced out. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks. Some routes, like the Beautiful descent – Petit Bonheur Café loop from Chaumes de Grandry, explicitly mention cafes, but it's always good to check opening hours, especially in off-peak seasons.

For families, it's best to choose the easier, shorter routes with minimal elevation gain. While the routes are generally traffic-free, some may still involve shared roads with very low traffic. Always assess the specific route's difficulty and length to ensure it's appropriate for your family's cycling abilities.