The best cycling routes around Arcy-Sur-Cure

There are over 100 touring cycling routes in the Arcy-sur-Cure area. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easier rides to more challenging excursions.

The routes around Arcy-sur-Cure cater to various fitness levels. You'll find 17 easy routes, 50 moderate routes, and 40 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and experienced cyclists.

Touring cycling routes in Arcy-sur-Cure often follow the picturesque Cure Valley, bordered by impressive cliffs up to 125 meters high. You'll encounter the tranquil River Cure and Yonne River, as well as the dramatic Saussois Rocks, which are remnants of an ancient coral reef. The area also features 60 hectares of forest and varied landscapes of countryside and wooded paths.

Yes, the region is rich in history. You can visit the renowned prehistoric Caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, which contain ancient paintings. Other notable sites include the Romanesque Cordelle Chapel, where Saint Bernard preached the Second Crusade, and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul in Cravant with its unique architecture.

Yes, there are several easier routes. For a moderate option, consider the Le Saussois – The Yonne and the Park Rocks loop from Arcy sur Cure, which is 36.6 km long with 390m of elevation gain. Another moderate choice is The Saussois Rocks – The Saussois Rocks loop from Brosses, a shorter 18.7 km route with 233m of elevation gain.

For experienced cyclists, the The Saussois Rocks – The Yonne and the Park Rocks loop from Mailly-la-Ville is a difficult 111.3 km route with 644m of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Cordelle Chapel – Vézelay town gate loop from Arcy sur Cure, a 47.5 km ride with 814m of elevation gain, which may include segments requiring you to push your bike.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Arcy-sur-Cure area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Le Saussois – The Yonne and the Park Rocks loop from Arcy sur Cure and The Saussois Rocks – The Saussois Rocks loop from Brosses.

The terrain around Arcy-sur-Cure is varied, offering a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. Many routes follow the banks of the Cure and Yonne rivers, and the Nivernais Canal, providing picturesque waterside journeys. You'll also cycle through countryside, valleys, and wooded paths, with elevation changes ranging from 111 to 331 meters.

The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. The mild weather during these seasons makes it ideal for exploring the diverse landscapes and historical sites. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.

While specific public transport options directly to every trailhead might be limited, the broader Burgundy region is known for its cycling infrastructure. For information on cycling along the Nivernais Canal, which connects with the Yonne River, you can visit France Vélo Tourisme.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 347 reviews. Cyclists often praise the serene Cure Valley, the dramatic limestone hillsides, and the prominent Saussois Rocks, as well as the well-maintained network of cycling paths.