The best cycling routes around Mailly-La-Ville

There are over 110 touring cycling routes in the Mailly-La-Ville area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes primarily follow the Nivernais Canal and the Yonne River, providing diverse landscapes.

Yes, the region offers 24 easy touring cycling routes. The The Saussois Rocks – The Yonne and the Park Rocks loop from Mailly-le-Château is an easy option, as is the The Saussois Rocks – The Saussois Rocks loop from Merry-sur-Yonne. Many sections of the Canal du Nivernais Greenway are also mostly flat and well-paved, making them ideal for beginners and families.

For those seeking a challenge, there are 39 difficult touring cycling routes. A notable long-distance option is The Saussois Rocks – The Yonne and the Park Rocks loop from Mailly-la-Ville, which spans over 111 km and offers extensive views of the Yonne River and the dramatic Saussois Rocks.

Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the popular From Mailly-le-Château to Lucy-sur-Yonne — loop along the Canal du Nivernais and by the D39 offers a scenic circular journey along the Canal du Nivernais.

The routes offer stunning views of the Canal du Nivernais and the Yonne River. A highlight is cycling past the impressive The Saussois Rocks, dramatic limestone cliffs near Merry-sur-Yonne. The Bois du Parc Nature Reserve, near Mailly-le-Château, also features cliffs and a fossilized coral reef, providing unique natural sights.

The region is rich in heritage. You can explore the fortified village of Mailly-le-Château with its medieval ramparts, or visit Châtel-Censoir, known for its 11th-century collegiate church. The Great Cave of Arcy, with its prehistoric paintings, is also accessible nearby.

Absolutely. The Canal du Nivernais Greenway provides mostly flat and well-maintained paths, making it ideal for families with children. Mailly-La-Ville also has a leisure area with games and a picnic area, perfect for a family stop.

While Mailly-La-Ville is well-situated on the Canal du Nivernais, specific public transport links directly to trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train services to nearby towns like Clamecy or Auxerre, and then plan your cycling route from there. For longer cycling tours in Burgundy, you can find more information on regional cycling infrastructure at France Vélo Tourisme.

Mailly-La-Ville is a convenient starting point, and you'll typically find parking available in the village, especially near the canal or leisure facilities. Many of the smaller villages along the Canal du Nivernais also offer parking options, allowing you to start your ride at various points.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil waterside paths, the picturesque villages, and the dramatic natural scenery, particularly around the Saussois Rocks.

While not strictly 'wild swimming', supervised swimming is available on the banks of the Yonne River during July and August in Mailly-La-Ville's leisure area. This provides a refreshing stop during your cycling tour.