The best MTB trails around Étormay
4.6
(18)
61
riders
1
ride
Mountain biking around Étormay offers access to a diverse landscape within the Côte-d'Or department of Burgundy-Franche-Comté. The region is characterized by undulating terrain, including rolling hills and dense forests, with the Jours plateau forming a prominent feature. Étormay itself is situated at the southern end of this plateau, with its highest point, Faye hill, reaching 407 meters. The surrounding area provides a mix of picturesque valleys and woodlands, suitable for various mountain biking experiences.
Best mountain bike trails around Étormay
…Last updated: October 8, 2026
5.0
(1)
18
riders
49.3km
03:24
140m
140m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(5)
20
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
riders
51.8km
04:33
850m
850m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
5
riders
37.8km
02:56
510m
510m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
41.7km
03:11
390m
390m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
I highly recommend visiting the abbey church of St Thibault in St Thibault! A pure marvel!
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Step into the Middle Ages - another incredible place (incidentally, the film set of the movie “Chocolat” with Johnny Depp)
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In addition to strolling around the village, you can freely visit (and for free) the anise museum, discover the old workshops, the crypt of the abbey, and end up in the shop and buy small anise candies with different flavors.
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The Abbey of Fontenay, like all monasteries and places of worship, was, of course, founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding significance, it has also been honored with the title of "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The German-language television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites around the world in quarter-hour segments. One episode also deals with this abbey, and the website reads: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monastic ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls its followers to return to early Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks establish their first monastery, "Citeaux," after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The order grows rapidly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread throughout France, even to Germany. The Fontenay Abbey is also founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The Abbey of Fontenay was, like all monasteries and places of worship, of course founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding importance, it has also been "ennobled" by UNESCO with the title of "World Cultural Heritage". The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites all over the world in quarter-hour contributions. One episode also deals with this abbey, on the website you can read: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monks' ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls on its followers to return to original Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks found their first monastery "Citeaux", after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The religious order grows quickly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread across France and into Germany. The Fontenay monastery was founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The world heritage monastery is worth a visit. However, there is an entrance fee.
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The city lies on Brenne and the Canal de Bourgogne. The area was already populated in ancient times. During the time of the Gauls there was a Druid community here. In the Middle Ages a town developed around the castle. Aleth, the mother of Bernard of Clairvaux, was born at the castle in 1070. The settlement received city rights in 1231. While the castle was a secondary residence of the Dukes of Valois from Burgundy, it was besieged in 1590 by the Count of Tavannes, who fought the Duke of Nemours on behalf of the French King Henri IV. The Canal de Bourgogne opened in 1833. In 1926, Montbard became a sub-prefecture by the decree of Raymond Poincarés.
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Beautiful old town on the Canal du Bourgogne; Castle hill with Gothic town church; campsite with outdoor swimming pool; Starting point for tours in the area, especially to Fontenay Abbey
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of mountain biking terrain can I expect around Étormay?
The Étormay area, situated within Burgundy, offers a diverse range of mountain biking terrain. You'll find undulating hills, dense forests, and picturesque valleys, particularly around the Jours plateau. The broader Burgundy region is known for varied landscapes, including wooded hills, meadows, and deep valleys, providing a mix of challenging and scenic rides.
Are there mountain bike routes suitable for beginners or families near Étormay?
While the specific routes listed are generally moderate, the broader Burgundy region, where Étormay is located, offers sections of the Grande Traversée du Morvan à VTT that are described as family-friendly 'discovery' routes. Additionally, the 27 km loop around the Rocks of Solutré and Vergisson is suitable for beginners, featuring enjoyable rides and scenic views, though it includes some uphill sections.
What are some popular mountain bike routes in the Étormay area?
Local mountain bikers enjoy several routes. One popular option is the Canal de Bourgogne – Bridge over the Brenne loop from Les Laumes Alésia, which follows the historic canal. Another favorite is the Alise-Sainte-Reine Village – Washhouse at Flavigny sur Ozerain loop from Les Laumes Alésia, connecting historical villages. For those interested in history, the MuséoParc Alésia – Flavigny-sur-Ozerain loop from Les Laumes Alésia leads through historical sites and rural landscapes.
Are there any circular mountain bike trails around Étormay?
Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops. Examples include the Canal de Bourgogne – Bridge over the Brenne loop from Les Laumes Alésia, the Alise-Sainte-Reine Village – Washhouse at Flavigny sur Ozerain loop from Les Laumes Alésia, and the MuséoParc Alésia – Flavigny-sur-Ozerain loop from Les Laumes Alésia. These routes offer the convenience of starting and ending at the same point.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while mountain biking near Étormay?
The area is rich in history. You can explore sites like MuséoParc Alésia, which explains the famous Battle of Alesia, or visit the charming medieval village of Flavigny-sur-Ozerain. The Statue of Vercingetorix – MuséoParc Alésia loop from Alise-Sainte-Reine specifically incorporates the Statue of Vercingetorix and MuséoParc Alésia.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails around Étormay?
The mountain bike trails around Étormay are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, the mix of historical sites with natural landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for advanced riders?
While the featured routes are mostly moderate, the broader Morvan Regional Natural Park, accessible from Étormay, is known for offering sections of the Grande Traversée du Morvan à VTT that cater to highly technical paths for experienced riders. The Breuil-Chenue Forest within the Morvan also provides steep downhill trails for those seeking a challenge.
Can I combine mountain biking with other activities like wine tourism?
Absolutely. Burgundy is famous for its vineyards. The "Voie des Vignes" (Vineyard Route) is a popular cycling path that winds through famous wine villages and landscapes, allowing you to combine active exploration with cultural appreciation and wine tasting experiences. Many routes pass through or near these scenic areas.
What are the best times of year for mountain biking in Étormay?
The region generally offers good conditions for mountain biking from spring through autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though some routes might be more exposed to the sun. Winter riding is possible but can be affected by colder temperatures and potentially wet or icy conditions.
Are there options for mountain biking along waterways near Étormay?
Yes, the region offers serene cycling experiences along waterways. The Canal de Bourgogne – Bridge over the Brenne loop from Les Laumes Alésia follows the historic Canal de Bourgogne. The Burgundy Canal itself offers a 242 km cycle route ideal for exploring the Auxois region, often along towpaths, providing low-altitude and accessible routes.
Where can I find more information about mountain biking in the wider Burgundy region?
For broader information on mountain biking opportunities and itineraries in Burgundy, you can consult resources like Burgundy Tourism's MTB section, which details various trails and areas like the Grande Traversée du Morvan.
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