The best road cycling routes around Varanges

There are over 300 road cycling routes around Varanges, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find approximately 118 easy routes, 185 moderate routes, and 16 more challenging options.

Yes, Varanges offers numerous routes suitable for beginners and families. With around 118 easy routes, you can enjoy gentle rides through the picturesque landscapes. Sections of the Eurovelo 8, which are being improved with new cycleways, also provide accessible and quiet lanes for a pleasant experience.

Road cycling around Varanges offers a diverse range of landscapes, from rolling hills and Mediterranean nature to oak and pine forests. You can enjoy waterside views near lakes like Lac de Quinson and Lac d'Esparron. The region is also close to the stunning Gorges du Verdon, offering breathtaking backdrops. Along your rides, you might encounter highlights such as the Burgundy Canal or the Sansfond Trail.

The region's 'generous and fragrant' Mediterranean nature makes spring and early autumn ideal for road cycling, with pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes. Summer also offers iconic routes through lavender fields, though it can be warmer. The improving infrastructure, including sections of the Eurovelo 8, makes it enjoyable across many seasons.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 16 difficult routes available. One notable option is the Burgundy Canal – Ouche Valley loop from Genlis, which covers over 120 km with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Varanges are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the moderate Canal de Bourgogne – Burgundy Canal loop from Genlis or the more challenging Climb of the Combe Lavaux – Combe Lavaux loop from Genlis.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 110 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from rolling hills to waterside paths, and the improving cycle infrastructure, particularly sections of the Eurovelo 8. The blend of natural beauty and varied routes makes it a popular destination.

Yes, the region offers routes that follow waterways, providing scenic and often flatter terrain. The Canal de Bourgogne – Burgundy Canal loop from Genlis is a popular moderate route that takes you along the canal, offering a unique perspective of the landscape.

While the focus is on natural landscapes, some routes may pass through charming villages or near historical landmarks. For instance, the Square and church of Auxonne – Statue of Napoleon in Seurre loop from Genlis takes you through varied landscapes that include cultural points of interest.

Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. You can find shorter rides, like the Square and church of Auxonne – Statue of Napoleon in Seurre loop from Genlis, which typically takes under 2 hours. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Grotte de l’Ermitage – The Saône loop from Genlis, can take over 3.5 hours to complete.

Yes, significant improvements are ongoing, particularly on sections of the Eurovelo 8 route between Rians and Varages. This 18-kilometer stretch features new cycleways and quiet lanes, with major upgrades completed in 2023 and 2024, including a new bridge, enhancing off-road cycling access to Varages station.