The best road cycling routes around Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe

There are over 180 road cycling routes in the Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe region, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, The Bicycle Tree – Malicorne-sur-Sarthe loop from Arthezé is an easy 26.6-mile (42.8 km) path with gentle gradients, perfect for a relaxed ride.

The region is characterized by the Sarthe river valley and surrounding agricultural plains. You'll find gentle rolling hills, quiet country roads, and moderate elevation gains, making it accessible for various fitness levels. The landscape often includes historic villages and scenic river views.

For those seeking longer rides, routes like the Voie Verte La Flèche–Le Lude – View of the Loir loop from Arthezé offer a substantial 37.8 miles (60.8 km) of cycling, providing scenic views along the Loir river.

Many routes pass through picturesque areas. You can explore the historic Château de Malicorne, or cycle through the charming settlement of Malicorne-sur-Sarthe itself. The Malicorne-sur-Sarthe – Château de Malicorne loop from Mézeray specifically leads past the château.

While the region is generally known for its gentle rolling hills, there are routes with more significant elevation gains. For example, the La Suze-sur-Sarthe – Statue and figurine loop from Saint-Jean-du-Bois covers 49.8 miles (80.2 km) with over 460 meters of ascent, offering a more demanding ride.

The spring and autumn months typically offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to ride earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Yes, many of the routes in the Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include Malicorne-sur-Sarthe – Solesmes Abbey loop from Le Bailleul and the previously mentioned The Bicycle Tree – Malicorne-sur-Sarthe loop from Arthezé.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 14 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet country roads, the picturesque river valleys, and the charming historical landmarks that make for a pleasant and varied cycling experience.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Malicorne-sur-Sarthe itself or nearby Arthezé and Mézeray. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route pages or local tourism websites.

While public transport options might be limited directly to every trailhead in this rural region, major towns like La Flèche or Sablé-sur-Sarthe, which are accessible by regional transport, can serve as starting points for rides into the Malicorne-Sur-Sarthe area. It's recommended to check local bus or train schedules for specific connections.