The best road cycling routes around Valay
4.5
(41)
700
riders
83
rides
Road cycling around Valay features a network of routes traversing varied terrain, from gentle river valleys to rolling hills. The region is characterized by its agricultural landscapes, interspersed with woodlands and small villages. Road cyclists can expect routes with moderate elevation gains, offering a mix of flat sections and gradual ascents. The area provides opportunities for both shorter, easy rides and longer, more challenging excursions.
Best road cycling routes around Valay
- The most popular road cycling route is Loop of…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
8
riders
30.9km
01:21
240m
240m
Enjoy an easy 19.2-mile road cycling loop from Permes, featuring well-paved surfaces and a visit to the heritage city of Pesmes.
4.0
(2)
17
riders
48.4km
02:20
600m
590m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5.0
(2)
9
riders
48.5km
02:07
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
81.9km
03:33
580m
580m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
73.2km
03:10
520m
520m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Other adventures around Valay
Tips from the Community
Valay – Did you know? The town's name comes from the Celtic words "Val," meaning iron, and "Aid," meaning abundance. Pieces made in Valay were used in the construction of the Grande Galerie at the 1889 Universal Exhibition. It's even rumored that Valay cast iron flows within the Eiffel Tower!
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Cyclo first plateau Dole
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Marnay Castle, built from the 11th century onwards, was remodeled several times up until the 18th century. Formerly the residence of the lords of Marnay, it still has a medieval tower, Renaissance façades and a large wooded park.
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A charming town in Franche-Comté, part of the Holy Roman Empire until the Treaty of 1678. Very prosperous in the Middle Ages, thanks to its trade and artisans. A cloth market was established there as early as the 14th century, after Joan of Burgundy, Countess of Franche-Comté and Queen of King Philip V the Long of France, brought weavers from Paris. From June 14, 1354, until the Revolution, the bourgeoisie of Marnay had a charter of emancipation that guaranteed them security and prosperity: "Whoever has a house and keeps a fire in the town will be a bourgeois." This charter allowed the inhabitants to administer the town themselves and thus build ramparts and create the individual gardens that can still be seen today.
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Valay boasts a distinctive architectural heritage: stone farms, old workshops, and wash houses. The town was also home to a major pottery factory in the 19th century, some of whose remains still exist.
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First mentioned in 1225, the castle oversaw the main passage of the river.
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Magnifique centre ville que je conseille. Pas beaucoup de monde. Mais cela est mieux avec du soleil
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Characterful Comtoise town which was part of the Holy Roman Empire until the treaty of 1678. Very prosperous in the Middle Ages, due to its trade and its artisans. There has been a cloth hall there since the 14th century, after Jeanne de Bourgogne, countess of Franche-Comté and queen of King Philippe V the Long of France, brought weavers from Paris there. From June 14, 1354 and until the Revolution, the bourgeoisie of Marnay had a charter of emancipation which ensured them security and abundance - "anyone who has a house and keeps fire in the village will be bourgeois". This charter allowed residents to administer the city themselves and thus build ramparts and set up the individual gardens that can still be found there today.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Valay?
Road cycling around Valay features a network of routes traversing varied terrain. You'll find gentle river valleys, rolling hills, and agricultural landscapes interspersed with woodlands and small villages. Routes offer a mix of flat sections and gradual ascents, with moderate elevation gains overall.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Valay?
Yes, Valay offers several easy road bike trails perfect for beginners. For example, the Loop of the Forges is an easy 19.2-mile (30.9 km) route with gentle gradients that passes through rural landscapes.
How many road cycling routes are available in the Valay region?
There are over 75 road cycling routes available around Valay, catering to various skill levels. This includes 27 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and a few more challenging options.
What are some longer road cycling routes in Valay for experienced riders?
For those seeking longer rides, the Pont de Pierre of Gray – Apremont Dam Footbridge loop from Pesmes is a moderate 66.4-mile (106.8 km) route. Another option is the Grotte de l’Ermitage – Église Notre Dame d'Offlanges loop from Pesmes, a 30.1-mile (48.4 km) path with more significant elevation changes.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in Valay?
Many of the road cycling routes in Valay are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the popular Loop of the Forges and the Pont de Pierre of Gray – Gray loop from Pesmes.
What can I see along the road cycling routes in Valay?
The routes often pass through picturesque agricultural fields and small towns. You can also discover historical sites and natural features. Notable attractions include the Saint-Hilaire Gate, The Forges of Pesmes, and the Apremont Dam. The medieval town of Pesmes is also a charming stop.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Valay?
The road cycling routes in Valay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet country roads, varied terrain, and the charming agricultural landscapes.
What is the typical elevation gain on road bike routes in Valay?
Road cyclists can expect routes with moderate elevation gains. While there are flat sections, many routes feature gradual ascents. For instance, the Marnay Dam – Historic Center of Marnay loop from Montagney includes about 446 meters of elevation gain over its 30.1-mile (48.4 km) distance.
Are there any routes around 50km in Valay?
Yes, several routes are approximately 50km. The Pont de Pierre of Gray – Gray loop from Pesmes is 30.8 miles (49.6 km) long, and the Grotte de l’Ermitage – Église Notre Dame d'Offlanges loop from Pesmes is 30.1 miles (48.4 km), both offering varied cycling experiences.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Valay?
While specific seasonal data isn't provided, regions with agricultural landscapes and rolling hills like Valay are generally best enjoyed in spring and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, avoiding the peak heat of summer or the colder, potentially wetter conditions of winter.
Where can I find parking for road bike trails near Valay?
Many routes start from or pass through villages and towns like Pesmes, Gray, or Marnay, where public parking is typically available. It's advisable to check specific starting points of your chosen route for the most convenient parking options.
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