The best traffic-free bike rides around Thizay
4.7
(10)
155
riders
32
rides
Gravel biking around Thizay offers varied terrain within the scenic Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The region is characterized by the confluence of the Loire and Vienne rivers, providing picturesque riverside paths alongside rolling vineyards and gentle hills. Ancient forests, such as those of Chinon and Fontevraud, offer shaded trails, while the local "Falun" limestone provides unique riding conditions. This landscape combines wooded plateaus with humid river meadows, creating diverse routes for gravel cyclists.
Best no traffic gravel…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
15
riders
107km
06:59
700m
700m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
55.2km
03:40
380m
380m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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6
riders
57.3km
03:34
140m
140m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
14
riders
32.4km
01:58
100m
100m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
6
riders
30.2km
02:00
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Thizay
Tips from the Community
The Château de Gizeux dates back to the Middle Ages and was remodeled over the centuries, particularly during the Renaissance and the 18th century. Located in the commune of Gizeux, within the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, on the borders of the former province of Anjou, it is one of the Loire Valley châteaux. Its façades stretch over 250 meters, making it the longest château in the Angevin region of Touraine.
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The sights are good but the terrain is not especially after high winds and heavy rain. Some people might find it tricky to navigate.
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For those who want to discover some art objects.
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
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On this bridge over the La Vienne you have a nice view of the skyline of Candes-Saint-Martin. This cozy village is located near the confluence of the Vienne and the Loire.
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Fontevraud-l'Abbaye is located in the natural region of the Loire Valley, listed as a "living cultural landscape" by UNESCO. As its name suggests, the history and present of the municipality are closely linked to the Abbey of Notre-Dame, founded in 1099. The abbey presents the originality of being part of a mixed order, but led by abbesses until the Revolution. was the necropolis of the Plantagenet dynasty. The recumbent figures of Richard the Lionheart, Henry II and Eleanor of Aquitaine are still preserved there. The vast abbey complex was transformed by Napoleon I into a penal colony and then into a "central house". This extraordinary prison closed its doors in 1963. While the abbey church and the various monastic sites were rehabilitated, the entire old abbey has since housed a prestigious cultural centre with, among other things, a renowned art museum, welcoming meetings and artists in residence. Art, history and heritage are highlighted throughout the year.
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Perfect stop for 'Eat - Shop & Go'
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Thizay?
There are over 20 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails around Thizay, offering a wide range of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging routes to explore the beautiful Loire Valley.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic gravel routes around Thizay?
The terrain around Thizay is incredibly varied, perfect for gravel biking. You'll encounter farm tracks, serene forest trails, picturesque riverside paths along the Loire and Vienne rivers, and quiet secondary roads. A unique feature is the 'Falun,' a fine white limestone that provides distinct riding conditions. Expect a mix of vineyards, gentle hills, and ancient forests like those of Chinon and Fontevraud.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel bike trails near Thizay?
Yes, there are 3 routes specifically rated as easy, and many more are moderate, making them accessible for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. The region's varied landscape ensures there are options for all skill levels, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without excessive challenge.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy the most about the trails in Thizay?
The komoot community rates the trails around Thizay highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders frequently praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the stunning natural beauty of the Loire Valley, and the opportunity to combine cycling with visits to historical sites and charming villages.
Can I find circular no-traffic gravel bike routes around Thizay?
Absolutely! Many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Thizay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Loire Riverside at Turquant – Fontevraud loop from Montsoreau offers a scenic circular ride, perfect for exploring the riverside and historical sites.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
Yes, the routes are rich with cultural and historical points of interest. You can cycle past magnificent sites like the Montsoreau Castle, the historic Fontevraud Royal Abbey, and the charming village of Turquant, known for its unique troglodyte caves. Many routes offer views of the Royal Fortress of Chinon and other châteaux.
Are there any routes that pass by the famous troglodyte caves?
Yes, several routes offer the chance to see the unique troglodyte caves. For instance, the Fontevraud – Troglodyte houses loop from Saint-Germain-sur-Vienne is a great option to explore these fascinating dwellings, including the Troglodyte Caves of Turquant and the Turquant Arts and Crafts Village.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking around Thizay?
The Loire Valley, including Thizay, is beautiful for gravel biking from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while summer provides warm weather for riverside rides. Autumn brings stunning foliage to the forests and vineyards. Even winter can be pleasant on milder days, with the quiet trails offering a serene experience.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders looking for longer distances, routes like the challenging Cinais Roman Camp – A thousand and one leaves loop from Thizay offer over 67 km of riding with significant elevation changes. Another option is the Loges Pond – Loges Pond loop from Port-Boulet, which covers over 55 km.
Can I find routes with good viewpoints along the way?
Absolutely! The varied landscape of the Loire Valley provides numerous opportunities for scenic viewpoints. Many trails offer panoramic vistas of the rivers, vineyards, and historical sites. Keep an eye out for specific highlights like Views of Chinon and beyond, which are often integrated into the routes.
Are there any routes that pass by castles or fortresses?
Yes, the region is famous for its châteaux and fortresses. You can find routes that take you past the impressive Royal Fortress of Chinon or the picturesque Montsoreau Castle, allowing you to combine your ride with a touch of history and culture.
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