4.5
(67)
456
riders
51
rides
Gravel biking around Rieux offers diverse landscapes, characterized by extensive networks of paths along waterways and through forested areas. The region features the historic towpaths of the Vilaine river and the Nantes-Brest Canal, providing serene, unpaved routes. Terrain varies from gentle undulations to some more significant climbs, with elevations generally ranging from 24 to over 250 meters. Large forested areas like Forêt de Pons and Forêt de la Lande contribute to the varied riding experience.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.3
(9)
77
riders
68.7km
03:22
110m
110m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
41
riders
27.5km
01:30
80m
80m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
28
riders
93.4km
05:14
600m
600m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
162km
08:13
470m
470m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(8)
32
riders
33.9km
01:53
140m
140m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A fit cyclist, but not recommended in December. Beautiful route, but it's hard-earned.
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The castle once dominated the Vilaine River from a rocky spur, controlling a strategic river and land route. It was fortified with moats, gates and towers, and its county belonged to the powerful Rieux family.
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In 832, Conuvoion, a Breton monk, founded the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur in Redon with the support of the Carolingian Emperor Louis the Pious. A small rural community slowly grew up around the abbey. During the Middle Ages, the town benefited from its location on the Vilaine River, as trade goods could be transported upstream to Redon on ocean-going vessels. There, the goods were transshipped and transported further on inland waterway barges towards Rennes, the capital of Brittany. In the 19th century, Redon experienced another period of prosperity with the construction of the Nantes-Brest Canal. Even today, the old shipowners' houses and the large harbor basin bear witness to its history as a trading port.
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These numerous locks break the monotony that can sometimes set in during a long outing.
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Very rolling, lots of dust on the panniers :)
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Landscape that is different from the rest of the canal. Very wild
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Very pretty, relaxing. Possibility of refueling by bike.
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You can explore nearly 40 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Rieux. These routes are designed to keep you away from cars, offering a peaceful and immersive cycling experience.
Yes, Rieux offers 10 easy gravel bike routes that are perfect for families and beginners looking to avoid traffic. Many of these follow the flat, serene towpaths along the Vilaine river and the Nantes-Brest Canal, providing safe and scenic rides. A great option is the Canal de Nantes à Brest – Magpie Island loop from Redon, which is rated easy.
The Rieux region offers a diverse range of landscapes for traffic-free gravel biking. In Brittany, you'll find picturesque routes along historic towpaths of the Vilaine river and the Nantes-Brest Canal, often tree-lined and offering views of passing boats. Further afield in Charente-Maritime, routes feature extensive forested areas like Forêt de Pons and Forêt de la Lande, gentle undulations, and even potential coastal views towards areas like Pointe de Suzac, providing varied terrain for all skill levels.
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Rieux are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Château de la Groulais – Paudais lock loop from Fégréac offers a substantial circular ride, taking you through varied terrain and past historical points of interest.
Along the no-traffic gravel bike trails, you can discover charming historical and natural attractions. Many routes follow the Towpath along the Vilaine and the Towpath on the Nantes-Brest canal. You might also pass through or near the historic town of Redon, a significant waterway crossroads, or see the Lock No. 19 of Maclaye-Painfaut.
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Rieux, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 50 ratings. Reviewers frequently praise the tranquility of the routes, the beautiful scenery along the canals and rivers, and the joy of riding on paths completely free from vehicle traffic, making for a truly peaceful outdoor adventure.
Absolutely. While many routes are easy, there are 23 moderate and 6 difficult no-traffic gravel trails for those seeking a greater challenge. These routes often feature more varied terrain, including sections through forests and gentle undulations. Consider the Magpie Island – Historic centre of Malestroit loop from Saint-Perreux for a longer, moderate ride.
Yes, some of the traffic-free gravel trails are accessible via public transport, particularly those starting from larger towns like Redon. Redon is a key hub situated at the crossroads of the Vilaine river and the Nantes-Brest Canal, making it a convenient starting point for many canal-side routes. Always check local public transport schedules for bike carriage options.
The best time to ride the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Rieux is generally from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is milder, and the natural scenery along the rivers, canals, and through the forests is at its most vibrant. The shaded forest trails are particularly appealing during warmer months.
Yes, the quiet, traffic-free nature of these gravel routes, especially those along the Vilaine river and Nantes-Brest Canal, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for various bird species, river wildlife, and other small animals that thrive in these peaceful natural environments.
Many routes in the Rieux area naturally combine historical interest with traffic-free gravel riding. The towpaths themselves are historic, dating back to the 18th century. Routes like the Green Slate Gravel Path – Redon loop from Redon offer a blend of natural beauty and proximity to historical towns and structures, allowing you to immerse yourself in the region's past while enjoying your ride.


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