4.7
(365)
13,731
riders
641
rides
Road cycling around Forêt de Chailluz, a significant wooded area near Besançon, offers diverse terrain for cyclists. The region features varied topography with elevations ranging from 319 meters to 619 meters, providing both flat sections and ascents. This landscape includes dense woodlands and offers dynamic cycling experiences with panoramic views over valleys. The area's physical features make it suitable for a range of road cycling abilities.
Last updated: July 10, 2026
4.9
(7)
61
riders
36.8km
01:43
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(8)
49
riders
54.0km
02:41
660m
660m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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51
riders
69.6km
03:36
990m
990m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(4)
36
riders
37.6km
01:46
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
33
riders
94.7km
04:41
1,170m
1,170m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Imposing complex which is worth a visit.
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A ship tunnel (1810) that can be walked through from the side as a shortcut for the Le Doubs river canal. On the other side of the canal there is a lock about 3-4 m high. There is a water curtain at both portals and the interior is beautifully and decoratively lit. Worth seeing.
2
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A double, neo-antique temple and wash house (1845), with very beautiful Ionic columns, containing a water reservoir.
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4
Fountain by the architect Pierre Marnotte, built in 1845-1846 and representing two small forts. This monument (listed as a historic monument) is lit up at dusk.
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4
Etuz is a commune in the Haute-Saône department. Etuz is located on the Ognon River, which forms the border with the Doubs department. Etuz is part of the urban unit of Cussey-sur-l’Ognon and the attraction of Besançon. Etuz has a fountain and two wash houses dating from the 19th century. It also has a church dedicated to Saint-Martin, which was built in the 18th century on the site of an older church. Etuz is a rural commune, where agriculture and forestry are mainly practiced.
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It is also possible to walk through the tunnel.
5
0
There are over 600 road cycling routes available in Forêt de Chailluz, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored more than 630 routes in the area.
The varied terrain of Forêt de Chailluz makes it enjoyable for road cycling across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While specific seasonal considerations aren't detailed, the forest's diverse landscapes are generally accessible, though winter conditions might require caution due to potential ice or snow on higher elevations.
Forêt de Chailluz features diverse terrain, with elevations ranging from 319 meters to 619 meters. This means you'll encounter a mix of flat sections and significant ascents, providing dynamic cycling experiences. Routes can vary from easy, mostly flat rides to challenging climbs with over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, such as the Cote d'Amagney – Deluz Lock loop from École-Valentin.
Yes, Forêt de Chailluz offers several road cycling routes suitable for beginners. There are over 50 easy routes available, providing accessible options for those new to road cycling or looking for a more relaxed ride. These routes often feature mostly paved surfaces and gentler gradients.
Experienced road cyclists will find plenty of challenging routes in Forêt de Chailluz. The region boasts over 240 difficult routes, featuring significant elevation gains and longer distances. For example, the Citadel of Besançon – Thoraise Tunnel loop from École-Valentin is a difficult 152.5 km route with substantial climbing, taking over 6 hours to complete.
Absolutely. A prominent landmark is the Fort de la Dame Blanche, which offers magnificent panoramic views over the Ognon valley, and on clear days, even the plateaus of Haut Doubs and the Vosges mountains. The forest also contains historical elements like ancient stone walls and quarries that provided stone for Besançon's old buildings.
Yes, Forêt de Chailluz is known for its rich wildlife. Cyclists might encounter wild animals such as wild boars, deer, roe deer, and stags, particularly in designated viewing areas. The forest's biological reserve also showcases a diverse ecosystem.
Yes, parking is generally available at various access points around Forêt de Chailluz. Many routes, such as those starting from École-Valentin, are easily accessible by car, with designated parking areas often found near trailheads or popular starting points for outdoor activities.
While many routes are designed for road cycling, the forest also offers areas with play installations and designated picnic spots, particularly around the 'Grandes Baraques' area, which can complement a family outing. For cycling, look for the easier, shorter routes that feature less elevation gain.
The Forêt de Chailluz is located near Besançon, so you'll find various amenities in the surrounding towns and villages. While the forest itself is primarily natural, you can plan your routes to pass through or near these areas for cafes, restaurants, and places to rest and refuel.
The road cycling routes in Forêt de Chailluz are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 340 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied topography, the scenic wooded areas, and the rewarding viewpoints like Fort de la Dame Blanche, which combine to create dynamic and enjoyable riding experiences.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Forêt de Chailluz are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Percée de Thoraise – Lock 53 loop from École-Valentin and the Aurêtre Pond – Montcley Castle loop from École-Valentin, offering convenient options for exploring the region.


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