The best road cycling routes around Étang des Noues
4.4
(116)
2,703
riders
534
rides
Road cycling routes around Étang des Noues offer diverse terrain centered around the 35-hectare artificial lake near Cholet. To the east, the landscape features the dense Nuaillé-Chanteloup forest, characterized by pines and ancient oaks. To the west, agricultural lands interspersed with hedges provide a different visual experience. The region's varied topography includes gentle gradients around the lake and more undulating sections further afield, suitable for different cycling abilities.
Best road cycling routes around Étang des Noues
- The most popular road…
Last updated: July 14, 2026
25
riders
17.1km
00:43
100m
100m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
100
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.8
(4)
74
riders
67.7km
02:56
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
47
riders
51.1km
02:19
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
35
riders
44.8km
02:12
490m
490m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
A beautifully landscaped oriental park. Very well served by cycle paths from Cholet or Bressuire/Mauléon. The largest Japanese garden in Europe.
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One of the magnificent dams of Maine et Loire, the Moine River flows through this lake to flow into another lake, the Ribou near Cholet. A 16km hike around the lake can be done by following the yellow markers.
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The dam itself is made up of two sets: a long curved dike made of rock on the upstream side, with a grassy embankment on the downstream side; a reinforced core in the form of six concrete vaults. The reservoir, with a surface area of 220 ha, stretches as far as Maulévrier, on the edge of Deux-Sèvres. Fishing is tolerated there, as is sailing in summer. The rest of the activities are subject to greater restrictions than at the Ribou dam. This is justified by the classification as a natural zone of ecological, fauna and flora interest (ZNIEFF) of the perimeter. In fact, more than 200 species of migrants have been counted there throughout the year. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrage_du_Verdon
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The Basilica of St Laurent sur Sèvre is a beautiful and historic place to visit, especially for those interested in the lives of Saint Louis de Montfort and Blessed Marie Louise Trichet, who are buried there.
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The Étang des Noues is an artificial lake created from an old quarry. Today it is a popular place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can take a 4km loop around the lake, taking in views of the water, forest and wildlife. Along the route, you will also find picnic tables, a playground, a fitness trail and a geocaching game. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll, go out with the family or take on a sporting challenge, the Étang des Noues has something to satisfy all tastes.
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The dam was built in 1977 and completed in 1979. It is owned by the town of Cholet, and its main purpose is to provide drinking water and irrigation to the region. The dam is made up of two parts: a curved rock dike on the upstream side, and a core reinforced with six concrete arches. The dam is 27 meters high and approximately 800 meters long. The dam has a capacity of 14 million cubic meters of water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Étang des Noues?
There are over 550 road cycling routes available around Étang des Noues, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Étang des Noues?
The terrain around Étang des Noues is quite diverse. To the east, you'll find the dense Nuaillé-Chanteloup forest with its pines and ancient oaks, providing a scenic backdrop. To the west, the landscape transitions to agricultural lands interspersed with hedges. The routes feature gentle gradients around the lake itself, with more undulating sections further afield, catering to various cycling abilities.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Étang des Noues offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the La Moine – Grand menhir de la Garde loop from Mazières-en-Mauges is an easy 21.2-mile (34.2 km) trail that explores rural landscapes and forest edges, perfect for a relaxed ride.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For those seeking a challenge, the area provides difficult routes with significant elevation changes. A notable option is the Colbert Castle, Maulévrier – Maulévrier Oriental Park loop from Cholet, a demanding 73.1-mile (117.6 km) path that passes by regional landmarks and offers a substantial workout.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while cycling around Étang des Noues?
While cycling, you can enjoy the central 35-hectare Étang des Noues lake, the dense Nuaillé-Chanteloup forest with its ancient oaks, and the surrounding agricultural lands. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, especially migratory birds during winter, and you might even spot roe deer near the forest and lake.
Where can I park my car when visiting Étang des Noues for road cycling?
Étang des Noues offers convenient free parking facilities, particularly near the recreational amenities and the nautical base, making it easy to start your cycling adventure.
Are there circular road cycling routes around Étang des Noues?
Many of the road cycling routes around Étang des Noues are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Château de la Tremblaye – Moulin du Bouchot loop from Cholet and the Verdon Lake Dam – Forêt de Vezins loop from Cholet.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Étang des Noues?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 90 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, ranging from quiet woodlands to open agricultural plains, and the well-maintained routes that cater to all abilities.
What is the best time of year for road cycling around Étang des Noues?
While road cycling is enjoyable year-round, spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant conditions with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery as the foliage changes. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to cycle during cooler parts of the day.
Are there options for longer road cycling tours that explore the wider region?
Yes, beyond the immediate vicinity of Étang des Noues, there are longer routes that venture into the broader Pays de la Loire region. For example, the Colbert Castle, Maulévrier – Maulévrier Oriental Park loop from Cholet extends for over 70 miles, connecting you to significant regional landmarks and offering a more extensive exploration.
Can I combine road cycling with other outdoor activities at Étang des Noues?
Absolutely. Étang des Noues is known as an 'open-air fitness center.' Besides road cycling, you can enjoy hiking, running, horse riding, mountain biking, fishing, and even water sports like water skiing at the nautical base. There are also picnic areas for relaxation.
How long does it typically take to cycle around Étang des Noues?
The time it takes depends on the specific route and your pace. An easy route like the La Moine – Grand menhir de la Garde loop from Mazières-en-Mauges, which is about 21 miles, typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes to complete.
Most popular routes around Étang des Noues
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