The best gravel rides around Marnay
4.5
(4)
40
riders
17
rides
Gravel biking around Marnay, France, is characterized by its varied terrain within the Ognon valley and near the Monts de Gy. The region features a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, including old railway lines and paths through former wine-growing villages. Natural features such as the Ognon River and a 20-hectare lake provide diverse landscapes for exploration. The area offers routes with elevation changes and scenic views, catering to different skill levels.
Best gravel bike trails around Marnay
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Shelter on the Way of St. James. – Marnay Dam loop from Charcenne, a 24.9 miles (40.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours 8 minutes to complete. This difficult route includes significant elevation gain and passes by the Marnay Dam.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Marnay Dam – Shelter on the Way of St. James. loop from Émagny, a moderate 15.3 miles (24.7 km) path. This route offers views of the Marnay Dam and sections of the historic Way of St. James.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Les Étangs de Noironte – Marnay Dam loop from Lantenne-Vertière, a 26.3 miles (42.4 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Marnay is defined by paths along the Ognon River, through rural hamlets, and near the Monts de Gy. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more difficult trails.
- The routes in Marnay are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 4 reviews. More than 40 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Marnay's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
3
riders
40.0km
03:08
560m
560m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
24.2km
01:45
240m
240m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3
riders
42.4km
03:01
350m
350m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
2
riders
26.8km
01:53
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
36.8km
02:39
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
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.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Marnay
Tips from the Community
Marnay Castle, built from the 11th century onwards, was remodeled several times up until the 18th century. Formerly the residence of the lords of Marnay, it still has a medieval tower, Renaissance façades and a large wooded park.
0
0
Le Paquey is a former floodplain meadow located on the outskirts of Marnay, on the banks of the Ognon River. This natural area is home to remarkable biodiversity, including wetlands, ancient hedgerows, and pastures. Designed for walking, it offers a glimpse of the valley's typical agricultural and river landscapes.
0
0
A charming town in Franche-Comté, part of the Holy Roman Empire until the Treaty of 1678. Very prosperous in the Middle Ages, thanks to its trade and artisans. A cloth market was established there as early as the 14th century, after Joan of Burgundy, Countess of Franche-Comté and Queen of King Philip V the Long of France, brought weavers from Paris. From June 14, 1354, until the Revolution, the bourgeoisie of Marnay had a charter of emancipation that guaranteed them security and prosperity: "Whoever has a house and keeps a fire in the town will be a bourgeois." This charter allowed the inhabitants to administer the town themselves and thus build ramparts and create the individual gardens that can still be seen today.
0
0
rolling road bike
0
0
First mentioned in 1225, the castle oversaw the main passage of the river.
0
0
Characterful Comtoise town which was part of the Holy Roman Empire until the treaty of 1678. Very prosperous in the Middle Ages, due to its trade and its artisans. There has been a cloth hall there since the 14th century, after Jeanne de Bourgogne, countess of Franche-Comté and queen of King Philippe V the Long of France, brought weavers from Paris there. From June 14, 1354 and until the Revolution, the bourgeoisie of Marnay had a charter of emancipation which ensured them security and abundance - "anyone who has a house and keeps fire in the village will be bourgeois". This charter allowed residents to administer the city themselves and thus build ramparts and set up the individual gardens that can still be found there today.
0
0
Village which dates back to Gaulle (Gallic burials have been unearthed there) and of which we also find traces under the Gallo-Roman Empire. There we find the source of the Colombine and some beautiful buildings, including the cemetery chapel (listed as a Historic Monument) and the Notre-Dame de Leffond Chapel which dates from the 13th century. However, the village is best known for its vineyards. In the Middle Ages, the wines of Gy and Charcenne were already exported and we found them on the tables of nobles in the 16th century. The Guillaume family has been cultivating vines there since 1732 and has developed a highly specialized nursery business since 1895, recognized worldwide. The 43 hectares of vines therefore produce wine, awarded several times, but also serve as a support for the multiplication of vine plants. They therefore cultivate other grape varieties than those necessary for their production. And if you want to accompany your wine with a cheese, head to the Millet cheese dairy to taste a Charcennais or an Ortolan.
1
0
Beautiful gravel road on the old railway line slightly downhill from Les Auxons to Marnay (and vice versa slightly uphill).
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are there in Marnay?
There are over 20 gravel bike trails available around Marnay, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes through the Ognon valley, near the Monts de Gy, and along historic paths.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails around Marnay?
Gravel biking around Marnay features varied terrain, including a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. You'll find paths along the Ognon River, through rural hamlets, and near the Monts de Gy, with routes offering elevation changes and scenic views.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Marnay?
The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. While specific weather conditions can vary, these seasons typically offer comfortable temperatures and vibrant landscapes for exploring the trails.
Are there any easy gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Marnay?
Yes, Marnay offers options for different ability levels. For an easier ride, consider routes that stick to flatter sections along the Ognon River or repurposed railway lines like La Ligne des Escargots, which provides a safe and scenic path.
Are there challenging gravel routes for experienced riders in Marnay?
Absolutely. The region, particularly towards the Monts de Gy and the broader Haute-Saône area, offers routes with significant elevation gain and varied terrain, requiring good to very good fitness and advanced riding skills. An example is the difficult route, Shelter on the Way of St. James. – Marnay Dam loop from Charcenne, which covers over 40 km with substantial climbing.
Are there circular gravel bike routes in Marnay?
Many of the gravel routes around Marnay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For instance, the Marnay Dam – Shelter on the Way of St. James. loop from Émagny is a popular moderate circular path.
What notable landmarks or natural features can I see along gravel routes in Marnay?
You can discover several interesting sights. Many routes pass by the Historic Center of Marnay, a 'Cité de Caractère' with rich architecture. You might also encounter the peaceful Les Étangs de Noironte, or even historical sites like Acey Abbey or Montcley Castle, depending on your chosen path.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking options in Marnay?
Yes, the area offers options suitable for families. The repurposed old railway line, La Ligne des Escargots, connecting Marnay to Moncley, provides a safe and scenic 11 km path that is ideal for a relaxed family ride. The banks of the Ognon River and the 20-hectare lake also offer pleasant, less challenging terrain.
Can I bring my dog on gravel bike routes in Marnay?
Many natural paths and trails in the Marnay region are suitable for dogs, especially those along the Ognon River or around the lake. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash and be mindful of local regulations, especially when passing through agricultural areas or near wildlife.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking in Marnay?
Marnay and its surrounding villages typically offer public parking areas. For routes starting directly in Marnay, you can often find parking within the town. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for designated parking spots or nearby village centers.
Are there places to eat or stay near the gravel trails in Marnay?
Marnay, being a charming town, offers various amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Many routes pass through or near rural hamlets where you might find local eateries. For more information on local services, you can visit the official tourism website for the Val Marnaysien region: tourisme-valmaysien.com.
What are some unique places to explore by gravel bike in the Marnay region?
Beyond the main trails, consider exploring the 'Boucle cyclable n°19 – des Vieilles Vignes' which takes you through old wine-growing villages and the renowned Charcenne vineyard. The Ognon River valley itself offers peaceful stretches, and the 20-hectare lake at the entrance to Marnay is a beautiful spot for a break, with opportunities for water activities at Woka Marnay: Woka Marnay.
How long are the gravel trails around Marnay?
The gravel trails around Marnay vary significantly in length. You can find shorter loops, such as the 15.3-mile (24.7 km) Marnay Dam – Shelter on the Way of St. James. loop from Émagny, or longer, more challenging rides like the 26.3-mile (42.4 km) Les Étangs de Noironte – Marnay Dam loop from Lantenne-Vertière.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Marnay?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 4 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic beauty of the Ognon valley, and the mix of challenging climbs and peaceful paths that cater to different skill levels.
Most popular attractions around Marnay
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
