4.3
(8)
548
runners
77
runs
Jogging around Fain-Lès-Montbard offers diverse landscapes, characterized by lush greenery, rolling hills, and tranquil waterways. The region features flat, well-maintained paths along the Canal de Bourgogne, providing serene running experiences. Runners can also explore the magnificent oak and beech forests, such as those surrounding Fontenay Abbey, which offer refreshing shade and natural environments for trail running. The gently undulating hills provide varied terrain, with options for both accessible, relatively flat routes and those incorporating moderate elevation changes.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.5
(2)
25
runners
9.69km
01:04
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
23
runners
16.6km
01:44
80m
80m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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21
runners
8.93km
00:56
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
runners
11.9km
01:25
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
13
runners
7.05km
00:44
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Magnificent stone bridge which spans the Brenne in the center of Montbard. The bridge is paved, and offers you splendid views of both banks and the river below.
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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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Another historical monument built in the 12th century; it is closed to visitors for the moment.
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Flat and pleasant route along the canal with a view of certain areas of Montbard, notably the tower.
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La Grande Forge was built in 1786 by Count Buffon. The forge was used for processing iron and was located at a place where it could use the river and later the canals to transport goods and raw materials. Count Buffon built his castle nearby.
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The old iron forge "Forges de Buffon" has been a "monument historique" since 1943 and is privately owned. In the 1920s it was used as a cement factory.
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At a bend in the Bourgogne canal lies the "Grande Forgé", the large forge. Built in 1786 by Count Buffon, this was also the location for iron smelting, iron forging and iron processing. The water from the Armancon and coal from nearby mines powered the machines. The iron ore came from the Morvan. The products were transported away by river and road and later by canal. Blacksmiths flourished for a hundred years, after which they were no longer able to compete with the large smelters in Lorraine and elsewhere. Next to the smithy is Count Buffon's castle with an exceptional garden. Four blast furnaces stood along the canal in its day, all near iron mines. Today the work can be visited (8 euros entrance fee) and gives a glimpse of the time.
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There are over 60 dedicated running routes around Fain-lès-Montbard, offering a wide variety of experiences. These include 7 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every runner.
The Fain-lès-Montbard area offers diverse terrain. You'll find flat, well-maintained paths along the Canal de Bourgogne, ideal for serene runs. There are also magnificent oak and beech forests, such as those near Fontenay Abbey, providing shaded trail running. Additionally, the gently undulating hills offer varied terrain for those seeking a more dynamic workout.
Yes, several routes incorporate historical landmarks. For instance, the challenging Montbard lock – Buffon's Big Forge loop from Montbard combines canal-side running with a visit to the 18th-century Buffon's Big Forge. The region also features Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled within a beautiful forest, offering culturally rich running opportunities.
Yes, many of the running paths are circular, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. A popular moderate option is the Running loop from Montbard, which covers about 9.7 km. Another great choice is the Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard, a 11.9 km trail through varied terrain.
The running routes in Fain-lès-Montbard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 10 reviews. Runners often praise the varied scenery, from tranquil canal paths to shaded forest trails, and the options available for different ability levels.
Absolutely. The region offers 7 easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed run. Many of the paths along the Canal de Bourgogne are flat and well-maintained, providing a gentle introduction to jogging in the area. You can also find moderate routes like the Bridge over the Brenne – Montbard lock loop from Montbard, which is around 7.1 km.
Yes, for longer runs, you can explore routes like the Montbard lock – Buffon's Big Forge loop from Montbard, which is a challenging 16.5 km. Another good option is the Montbard – Bridge over the Brenne loop from Montbard, a moderate 13.3 km route with significant elevation changes.
The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer provides refreshing shade in the forests, while winter can offer a unique, tranquil experience, though some paths might be affected by weather.
Beyond the historical sites, the region is rich in natural beauty. The Canal de Bourgogne offers picturesque views with charming locks. The forests of Auxois provide lush greenery, and the gently undulating hills offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. The nearby Lac de Pont also presents a scenic spot for outdoor activities.
Yes, the area is well-suited for families. The flat, well-maintained paths along the Canal de Bourgogne are excellent for leisurely jogs or walks with children. Many routes are accessible and offer a chance to enjoy nature together without significant difficulty.
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the outdoor trails in the region, especially on public paths and forest routes. However, it's always advisable to keep them on a leash and check for specific signage, particularly in nature reserves or near private properties, to ensure a pleasant experience for everyone.


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