The best gravel rides around Chambray-Lès-Tours
4.4
(132)
978
riders
94
rides
Gravel biking around Chambray-Lès-Tours offers a network of routes through the scenic Loire Valley. The region is characterized by its gentle terrain, often featuring paths alongside rivers and through agricultural landscapes. Riders can expect a mix of forest trails and open country, with occasional small hills providing varied elevation. This area provides a suitable environment for exploring on gravel bikes, connecting villages and natural spaces.
Best gravel bike trails around Chambray-Lès-Tours
- The most popular gravel bike trail is View of…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.6
(14)
54
riders
52.4km
03:15
270m
270m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(13)
75
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(15)
85
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
57
riders
87.0km
05:25
400m
400m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
44
riders
74.2km
04:15
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Forget Chambord allure. This castle was: A. a strategic fortress B. a royal residence C. part of the defenses along the Loire It dates largely from the 11th to the 15th century and has a primarily military appearance. Sturdy, compact, no-frills. It is located: – right on the Loire – next to the Pont Wilson – between Place Anatole France and Vieux Tours
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Did you know: During the First World War, the castle was converted into a hospital for wounded soldiers by its owner, Simonne Menier (of the Menier chocolate family). – Long rows of camp beds lined the large gallery above the Cher River. – More than 2,000 wounded were reportedly cared for within the castle walls. A bizarre contrast: the ornate Renaissance halls as a place for bandages, operations, and recovery.
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Built on the remains of the Gallo-Roman city of Caesarodunum, Saint-Gatien Cathedral stands in the heart of the city. This city was once one of the most famous places of pilgrimage in the West and is still one of the capitals of the Pays de Loire. Opening hours: Saint-Gatien Cathedral is open every day of the week from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm. From Easter to 11 November, you can meet the volunteers of the Présence Cathédrale association in the cathedral. You can recognise them by their badges. They can help you with your visit and answer your questions. For guided tours and group visits, which can take place all year round by reservation, please contact 07 66 39 84 11. For more information, visit their website: https://visite-cathedrale-tours.fr/ You can also visit the cloister of La Psalette, which is accessible via the cathedral.
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This impressive suspension bridge spans the Loire between La Chapelle-aux-Naux and Langeais and was originally completed in 1849. The bridge has been repaired and rebuilt many times and has a two-lane road over the Loire. On the Langeais side, a walk along the banks of the Loire, on both sides of the bridge, is highly recommended. The Langeais bridge is a stubborn bridge. It has been rebuilt five times! The story begins in 1848, the year in which King Louis Philippe authorised the construction of a "wire bridge", as it was then called (bridge 1). But wires are excellent lightning conductors! And 10 years after its opening in 1859, the bridge collapsed into the Loire after a heavy storm, its deck and suspension elements. Two years later in 1861, the bridge was repaired and operational again as a toll bridge (bridge 2). But shortly afterwards, in 1870, war broke out and the advance of the Prussian enemy had to be slowed down. Boom! Bridge was blown up (bridge 3) The fourth was completed in 1914, but then came the... car! They were heavy, they came and went! The bridge therefore had to be extensively rebuilt to bear the weight of modernity. This happened in the 1930s, and the opportunity was taken to decorate the bridge with its very special Gothic pillars, which reflected the Gothic style of the castle; the two form a mirror image. Bridge 4 was built! All is well, all is well... but then it is June 1940. And this time it is the Germans who have to be stopped. To stop the invader, the bridge was blown up again. After first using a ferry and then a temporary footbridge, the inhabitants waited until 1949 for a bridge over the Loire (bridge 5). The bridge of Langeais is the only bridge between Tours and Port Boulet. It is now a rather imposing bridge with a turbulent history.
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The Château de Langeais , a former royal estate and property of the Institut de France, is one of the major sites in the Loire Valley . Near Tours , in the heart of the Loire Valley , it offers a guided tour of fifteen rooms, decorated with richly carved medieval furniture . You will discover a collection of tapestries and the reconstruction of the royal wedding of Anne of Brittany, told by Stéphane Bern . Langeais, a Renaissance Loire castle, will surprise you with its park planted with cedars and sequoias and its playful elements. More information on https://chateau-de-langeais.com/
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Beautiful village. Stopover (campsite).
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From here you can admire the castle in peace and quiet.
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a bit further away from the Loire but a nice forest to cycle through
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Chambray-Lès-Tours?
There are over 130 gravel bike routes in the Chambray-Lès-Tours area, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The majority of these, around 80 routes, are considered moderate, with 14 easy and 37 difficult trails also available.
What is the general difficulty level of gravel biking in Chambray-Lès-Tours?
The gravel biking around Chambray-Lès-Tours is characterized by gentle terrain, making it accessible for many riders. While there are 14 easy routes perfect for beginners, the majority (80 routes) are moderate, offering a good balance of challenge and enjoyment. For experienced riders, 37 difficult trails provide more demanding options.
Are there any family-friendly gravel bike routes in Chambray-Lès-Tours?
Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Routes like the easy Savonnières Village and Church – View of Savonnières loop from Joué-les-Tours, at 26.9 km, are ideal for a relaxed outing. These trails often wind through local scenery and villages, providing a pleasant experience for all ages.
Are there any loop gravel bike trails around Chambray-Lès-Tours?
Many of the gravel bike trails in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the popular View of the Loire River – Langeais Bridge loop from La Douzillère is a challenging 86.9 km circular route, while the moderate Montbazon – At your pleasure loop from Veigné offers a 36 km option.
What kind of scenery can I expect on gravel bike routes in Chambray-Lès-Tours?
The routes offer diverse scenery typical of the Loire Valley, including paths alongside rivers, through dense woodlands like the Bois des Hâtes, and across open agricultural fields. You'll encounter charming villages, historic bridges, and often extensive views of the Loire River.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Chambray-Lès-Tours?
The gravel biking routes in Chambray-Lès-Tours are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 140 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the scenic river paths, and the opportunity to explore both woodlands and open country.
Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the gravel bike trails?
Yes, many routes pass by interesting landmarks. You might cycle past historic structures like the Montlouis-sur-Loire Viaduct or the Wilson Bridge. The region is also known for its castles; some routes offer views of or pass near sites like Château de la Bourdaisière or Nitray Castle. You can also find natural spots like La Bergeonnerie Lake.
Are there any long-distance gravel routes for advanced riders?
Yes, for advanced riders seeking a longer challenge, routes like the View of Savonnières – View of Ussé castle loop from Joué-les-Tours offer a substantial 86.5 km journey with varied terrain. Another demanding option is the View of the Loire River – Langeais Bridge loop from La Douzillère, which is 86.9 km long and features significant elevation changes.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Chambray-Lès-Tours?
The Loire Valley generally offers pleasant conditions for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summers are typically warm, ideal for early morning or late afternoon rides. Winters can be cooler and wetter, but many trails remain rideable, especially those through forests that offer some shelter.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the gravel bike trails?
Given the region's network of trails connecting villages and towns, you'll often find opportunities to stop for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near settlements where cafes and restaurants are available. For instance, the Rochecorbon riverside tavern is a specific highlight that could be a good stop for riders.
Where can I find parking for gravel bike trails in Chambray-Lès-Tours?
Most routes that start from towns or villages will have public parking available. For routes originating from specific points like La Douzillère, Joué-les-Tours, or Saint-Avertin, you can typically find parking in or near these starting locations. It's always advisable to check the specific tour details on komoot for recommended parking spots.
Are there any gravel routes that go through forests or woodlands?
Yes, the region features several routes that lead through dense woodlands. A prime example is the Trails of Bois des Hâtes – Bowl-shaped wind turbine loop from Saint-Avertin, which takes you directly through the Bois des Hâtes forest, offering shaded paths and a different riding experience.
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