The best road cycling routes around Island

Road cycling routes around Island are characterized by a diverse landscape of forests, river valleys, and rolling hills, particularly within areas like the Parc naturel régional du Morvan. You'll find varied terrain, from routes along waterways to those traversing more elevated sections, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical elements.

There are over 350 road cycling routes available around Island, catering to various skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has highly rated these routes, with an average score of 4.8 stars.

Yes, there are routes suitable for beginners. While many routes feature rolling hills, there are 27 easy routes and 220 moderate routes. A good option for a shorter, more gentle ride is the Avallon – Avallon rampart loop from Avallon, which is 6.9 km long and offers gentle elevation changes around the historic ramparts.

For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 103 difficult routes. One such route is Les rochers du Saussois & la Route Forestiere du Fay — loop in the Parc naturel régional du Morvan from Avallon, an 80.1 km trail that explores the varied terrain of the Morvan Regional Natural Park with significant elevation changes.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Island are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the popular Lake Crescent – Lac de Chaumeçon loop from Avallon, which is 67.3 km long and leads through forested areas and past lakes.

Road cycling routes around Island often pass by notable historical and natural attractions. You can explore the historic town of Avallon, visit the Notre-Dame Church of Saint-Père, or see the Crescent Dam. Routes also traverse areas with unique rock formations and dense woodlands.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the beauty of the forested landscapes and river valleys, and the well-maintained routes that offer a mix of challenge and scenic views.

Yes, several routes incorporate lakes and waterways into their scenic paths. The Lake Crescent – Lac de Chaumeçon loop from Avallon is a prime example, leading through forested areas and past beautiful lakes, offering refreshing views during your ride.

Absolutely. The Parc naturel régional du Morvan is a central feature of road cycling around Island. Routes like Les rochers du Saussois & la Route Forestiere du Fay — loop in the Parc naturel régional du Morvan from Avallon specifically explore this park, showcasing its varied terrain, rock formations, and forest roads.

Yes, you can combine your ride with historical exploration. The Avallon – Avallon rampart loop from Avallon takes you around the historic ramparts of Avallon. Other routes may pass by charming villages and historical structures, such as the Cordelle Chapel or the Saint Martin Church.

For a moderate yet substantial ride, consider the Mailly-le-Château Bridge – The Saussois Rocks loop from Vault-de-Lugny. This 52.7 km route offers a balanced challenge through scenic landscapes, including views of the Saussois Rocks.

Yes, you can find routes that feature such points of interest. The Pierre-Perthuis Bridge – Château d'Island loop from Domecy-sur-Cure is a moderate 47 km route that allows you to experience both the unique Pierre-Perthuis Bridge and the Château d'Island.