The best road cycling routes in Eure-et-Loir

Eure-et-Loir offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 2,700 options available. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, from the flat plains of the Beauce to the rolling hills of the Perche Regional Natural Park.

The terrain in Eure-et-Loir is quite varied. You'll find vast, fertile plains in the Beauce region, offering long, open stretches for cycling. In contrast, the Perche Regional Natural Park features rolling hills, wooded valleys, and forests, providing more challenging ascents and descents. River valleys, such as those of the Eure and Loir, offer tranquil routes alongside waterways.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the routes within the Perche Regional Natural Park offer more significant elevation changes. For example, the route From Nogent-le-Rotrou to Louigny — hilly circuit in the Parc naturel régional du Perche covers over 600 meters of elevation gain, providing a more demanding experience.

Eure-et-Loir has many easy routes. An excellent option for a relaxed ride is From Chartres to Maintenon — loop via the V40/V41 and country roads, which is an easy 39 km loop connecting Chartres with the historic Château de Maintenon. Another gentle ride is South of Chartres — Loop via Chamblay, exploring the open countryside.

Many routes pass by significant historical sites. The From Chartres to Maintenon route, for instance, leads to the impressive Château de Maintenon. Other notable castles in the region include Anet Castle and Nogent-le-Rotrou Castle, which can be incorporated into your rides.

Absolutely. The Perche Regional Natural Park offers rolling hills and wooded valleys, with the Butte de Rougemont providing panoramic views. You can also find tranquil routes along the Eure and Loir river valleys. The West of Chartres — loop in the Eure valley offers scenic views along the river.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 680 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the quiet agricultural plains to the picturesque river valleys and the more challenging hills of the Perche, as well as the well-maintained, mostly paved surfaces.

Yes, Eure-et-Loir is part of several significant long-distance routes. La Véloscénie, a 450 km route connecting Paris to Mont Saint-Michel, passes directly through the region, including Chartres and the Perche. The Royal Valley of the Eure by bike and the Loir Valley by bike also offer extensive itineraries, as does the Way of Saint Jacques de Compostelle by bike (V41).

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Eure-et-Loir, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start rides earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat, especially on the open plains of the Beauce.

Many of the routes in Eure-et-Loir are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending in the same location. Examples include Chartres Loop via Béville-le-Comte and Champrond-en-Gâtine and Pontgouin — circuit de La Loupe in the Parc naturel régional du Perche.

Yes, Eure-et-Loir features extensive woodlands and natural parks. The Perche Regional Natural Park offers numerous routes through its forests and rolling hills. For example, consider the route From Brou to Miermaigne via the Bois de Grandmont — circuit for a ride through a wooded area.

While Eure-et-Loir is known for its rivers, some routes may pass near lakes. The Lake of Mézières Ecluzelles is a notable natural feature. The route Écluzelles, Chaudon, Ormoy — loop from Dreux will take you near this area.

Eure-et-Loir has a well-developed cycling infrastructure. For more detailed information on cycling routes, services, and general cycling in the region, you can visit the official tourism website: tourisme28.com/en/cycling/.