4.4
(15)
116
riders
17
rides
Gravel biking around Bruyères-Et-Montbérault offers diverse landscapes, featuring a network of trails suitable for various fitness levels. The region is characterized by its proximity to Lake Ailette, providing scenic views and a mix of surfaces. Riders can expect varied terrain with elevation changes and unpaved segments, including forests and natural areas. This area provides engaging routes away from vehicle traffic, combining natural exploration with historical sites.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
4.0
(3)
24
riders
37.9km
02:01
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
13
riders
13.9km
00:50
120m
120m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

5.0
(2)
12
riders
13.1km
00:46
100m
100m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
riders
22.9km
01:30
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
riders
21.5km
01:16
150m
150m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
The Vauclair Abbey near Bouconville-Vauclair in the Aisne department was founded in 1134 by Bernard of Clairvaux as a Cistercian monastery. In the Middle Ages, it developed into an important monastic complex; it was significantly expanded, particularly in the 13th century. During the First World War, Vauclair was located directly in the combat zone of the Chemin des Dames and was almost completely destroyed by artillery fire in 1917. The ruins visible today have been archaeologically investigated, excavated, and partially secured since the 1960s. Directly next to the ruins, there is now a medicinal herb garden with around 400 species and a conservation orchard. This verger conservatoire preserves old regional apple and pear varieties; according to the French Garden Association, there are about 84 different varieties represented there. Together with the monastery ruins, the site thus commemorates not only the history of the Cistercians but also their close connection to agriculture, horticulture, and botany.
1
0
In 1914, the peasant village of Ailles covered about 340 hectares, one third of which was forest. 61 houses were grouped around the church of Saint-Martin. The population was declining: in the 1901 census there were still 147 inhabitants, while in 1911 there were only 118. In honor of the Battle of Craonne, a magnificent elm had been planted on March 7, 1814. A century later, it witnessed a new battlefield as French and German shells wiped the village off the map...
1
0
Hidden in the middle of the forest, this Cistercian abbey, founded in 1134 by Bernard of Clairvaux, appears like a mirage. Its majestic ruins bear witness to a turbulent past. From the Hundred Years' War and the French Revolution to the First World War, the abbey suffered considerable destruction. In the 1960s, the site was overgrown with brambles and forgotten. Thanks to the archaeological excavation group "Sources" led by Father Courtois, it experienced a rebirth.
2
0
Beautiful quiet place for a walk
0
0
Entrance to Centre Parcs at Lac d'Ailette
0
0
Ailette Lake is a haven of tranquility surrounded by greenery. Its calm and clear waters invite you to relax, whether for a stroll along the lake, a canoe trip or a picnic break. The preserved natural setting offers magnificent views of the surrounding wooded hills and the developed beaches.
1
1
A remarkable remnant of what was once a large and important abbey. Caesar, Napoleon and German troops are said to have passed through this area during the First World War.
3
0
There are 10 gravel bike trails available around Bruyères-Et-Montbérault on komoot, offering a variety of options for your ride.
Yes, the region offers a good selection of routes for various skill levels. Out of the 10 available trails, 6 are rated as easy, making them suitable for beginners or family outings. For example, the View of Lake Ailette – Vauclair Abbey loop from Chamouille is an easy 10.3-mile (16.6 km) trail.
You can expect diverse landscapes, including scenic lake views, historic abbey ruins, and varied forest paths. The routes often feature unpaved segments and elevation changes, providing an engaging ride away from vehicle traffic. The nearby Ailette Lake is a prominent natural feature, and you'll find yourself exploring natural areas like forests and reserves.
Many routes incorporate historical and natural points of interest. You can explore the ruins of Vauclair Abbey, which is a significant historical site. The trails also offer views of the picturesque Ailette Lake. The historic city of Laon, with its stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral and Old Town, is also very close by and often integrated into the broader cycling experience.
The region is generally appealing for outdoor activities due to its diverse landscapes. While specific seasonal recommendations depend on personal preference, spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winter conditions might include mud and grass paths, so be prepared for varied surfaces.
Yes, many of the gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops. For instance, the Vauclair Abbey – Lake Ailette loop from Craonne and the View of Lake Ailette – Vauclair Abbey loop from Pargny-et-Filain are popular circular options, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
The gravel biking routes in Bruyères-Et-Montbérault are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from around 10 reviews. Over 80 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the scenic lake views, historic abbey ruins, and diverse forest paths.
Absolutely. Lake Ailette is a central feature of the region's outdoor activities. Routes like the View of Lake Ailette – Vauclair Abbey loop from Pargny-et-Filain and the View of Lake Ailette – Vauclair Abbey loop from Chamouille specifically highlight views of the lake, integrating its picturesque scenery into your ride.
The trails vary in length and elevation. You can find shorter, easier routes like the View of Lake Ailette – Vauclair Abbey loop from Chamouille, which is 10.3 miles (16.6 km) with about 112 meters of elevation gain. Longer, more moderate options, such as the Lac de l'Ailette – Lake Monampteuil loop from Montbavin, can be around 28 miles (45 km) with over 340 meters of elevation gain, offering a good challenge.
The region is surrounded by several natural areas, including the Réserve naturelle du marais de Vesles-et-Caumont and the Réserve naturelle des Landes de Versigny. These areas contribute to the local biodiversity, offering tranquil settings where you might encounter various wildlife during your ride through forests and natural reserves.
While the region is well-suited for cycling, specific public transport options that accommodate bikes directly to trailheads might be limited. It's advisable to check local bus or train services for their bike policies and nearest stops to your chosen starting point, especially if you plan to travel from larger cities like Laon or Soissons.
Many of the routes start from villages or towns around the Ailette Lake, such as Craonne, Pargny-et-Filain, Chamouille, or Montbavin. These locations typically offer public parking facilities where you can leave your vehicle before starting your gravel bike adventure. Always check local signage for parking regulations.


Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.