The best traffic-free bike rides around Montbeton
4.3
(76)
5,090
riders
91
rides
Road cycling around Montbeton offers diverse terrain, from the fertile plains of the Tarn and Garonne rivers to the rolling hills of the Quercy region. The area features tranquil canal-side greenways and river valleys, providing varied landscapes for cyclists. These routes often follow well-maintained paths, suitable for different skill levels. The region's proximity to Montauban also allows for rides through historic areas and along scenic waterways.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Montbeton
- The most popular no traffic road…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.3
(7)
99
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.0
(1)
28
riders
60.4km
02:32
160m
160m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.0
(1)
23
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
14
riders
46.2km
02:07
70m
70m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Montbeton
Tips from the Community
Very smooth section of the canal with little traffic. Be careful of a section on the bridge with large cobblestones.
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The Montech Canal is very pleasant, the lock houses are picturesque
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At the beginning of the 17th century, after the assassination of Henri IV (1610), the France of Louis XIII launched an attack on the republic of parpaillots. The Edict of Nantes (1598) allowed them to obtain a certain number of freedoms such as the practice of religion but also political advantages: places of security, assemblies, deputies representing the Protestant party at court. Supported by his mother Marie de Medici, the young Louis XIII did not intend to maintain this situation which defied the royal authority which, for its part, could only be Catholic. Tensions between the two religious communities were now such that the royal army mobilized to face Huguenot resistance. Protestant strongholds which deny the religion of the King of France are systematically besieged. Refractory to this authority, Montauban must therefore suffer the wrath of the canons of the Catholic King. At that time, Montauban was a place of safety like La Rochelle. The Quercy stronghold was then called Little French Geneva. Entirely Huguenot, its population of approximately 15,000 inhabitants includes 10,000 Calvinists. The management of the city is in the hands of consuls (elected by 25 inhabitants representing all the city's corporations) who enjoy great autonomy. Since 1600, there has been a college and an academy there which recruit students from all the provinces of the kingdom and abroad. It is for all these reasons that Montauban-la-Protestante gives the image of a true Huguenot republic where Catholics no longer have the right to live. Louis XIII, after subduing Agen, decided on August 10, 1621 to put an end to the Montalbanese revolt. On August 17, the king moved to the castle of Montbeton and began the siege. The latter only stopped four months later with the victory of the Montalbanais. Effective resistance to modify It is a fact that the Montalbanais were able to resist thanks to a small number of men against the plethoric royal army. It is also true that the city's first Consul, Jacques Dupuy (1591-1621) had taken care to prepare the city for the siege by building up large reserves of food. Throughout the siege, the Montalbanais did not suffer from hunger at any time. The royal army suffered dramatic losses. Louis XIII would have called on an Aragonese Discalced Carmelite, a very well-known alchemist. He would have meditated for a long time before giving the following recommendation to the King: “we must scare the inhabitants of the city. A great fear that will make them surrender.” The cannonade was mentioned by Marshal de Bassompierre in his Memoirs where he wrote that the king, incited by the Discalced Carmelite to bombard the city with 400 cannon shots, “sent for me on Sunday September 20 to fire the 400 cannon fire; as I did.” There were more than 650 shots that day, according to another witness... The expression "400 shots" recalls the violence of the cannonades, but these 400 shots could not be fired at the same time as legend has it. In total, there have been nearly 16,000 shots in two and a half months. In vain… Let us add for the sake of understanding, that until then the cannonades were mainly aimed at the ramparts to create breaches... The Carmelite's idea was to fire 400 shots into the city, to frighten the population, which was actually without effect. Decimated by purple fever, a serious epidemic which caused bright red spots on the body, Louis XIII's army capitulated at the beginning of November and the king lifted the siege.
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Montech is worth a stop and a visit for its rehabilitated industrial site and the historic center of Montauban is remarkable. Between the Toulouse-Bordeaux and Montauban-Auch axes, Montech has experienced industrial growth. The site has been rehabilitated and equipped for the visit, from the Site House and the Intercommunal Tourist Office. Signs have been installed to guide your visit. The water slope is a unique site at its creation. It operated from 1974 to 2009 and saved time without going through the 5 historic locks of the lateral canal. A concrete slope more than 400 m long, 6 m wide and more than 4 m deep was built parallel to the canal. A mobile shield pushed by two locomotives on wheels made it possible to push a large volume of water where a barge floated.
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Very pretty canal, very bucolic, with pretty lock houses...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Montbeton?
There are nearly 90 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Montbeton listed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 48 easy and 41 moderate options, ensuring a pleasant ride for everyone.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Montbeton?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience around Montbeton, with an average score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. Cyclists frequently praise the tranquil canal-side greenways, the picturesque landscapes of the Tarn and Garonne rivers, and the well-maintained paths that offer a peaceful escape from traffic.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic road cycling routes near Montbeton?
Yes, the region offers several easy, traffic-free routes perfect for families. The Montech Canal – Mortarieu Lock - Montauban loop is an excellent choice, providing a gentle 41 km ride along the canal. The Canal de Montech Greenway itself is known for being safe and accessible, following old towpaths for approximately ten kilometers, ideal for all skill levels.
What are some scenic viewpoints or attractions along the car-free cycling routes?
Many routes offer beautiful views and pass by interesting attractions. You can cycle along the Montech Canal, known for its tranquil atmosphere. The Montech Water Slope is a unique engineering marvel worth seeing. Additionally, the routes often provide glimpses of the fertile plains and wooded landscapes, especially along the Tarn River, which is a Natura 2000 zone.
Are there any circular no-traffic road bike routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic routes around Montbeton are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Montech Canal – Montauban loop offers a moderate 60 km circular ride. Another option is the View from the Montauban Bridge – Montauban loop, an easy 35 km circuit.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling around Montbeton?
The region around Montbeton is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, while autumn (September-October) provides comfortable weather and beautiful fall colors. Summer can be warm, so early morning or late afternoon rides are recommended. Winter cycling is possible, but check weather conditions as some paths might be damp.
Where can I find parking for accessing the no-traffic road cycling routes, especially near the Canal de Montech?
Montbeton's proximity to Montauban, a hub for cycling routes, means you can often find parking in or around Montauban itself. For routes along the Canal de Montech, look for designated parking areas in towns like Montech or near access points to the greenway. Many local villages also offer public parking facilities that provide convenient access to the surrounding cycling network.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced riders?
While the guide focuses on no-traffic routes, some longer options exist that incorporate quiet roads. The Montauban – Cacor Canal Aqueduct in Moissac loop is a moderate 65 km route that offers a good distance. For those seeking more significant elevation, the broader Aveyron Valley and Gorges Cycle Route, though not entirely traffic-free, offers sections with steep climbs and impressive scenery through historic villages like Bruniquel and Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val.
Can I access these no-traffic routes using public transport with my bike?
Montauban, being a larger town near Montbeton, is well-connected by regional public transport. It's advisable to check with the local transport providers (trains or buses) regarding their policies for carrying bicycles, as rules can vary. Many routes, especially those along canals, are easily accessible from urban centers, making public transport a viable option for reaching starting points.
Are there cafes, pubs, or accommodation options along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, the region is dotted with charming villages and towns where you can find amenities. Montauban itself offers a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. Along routes like the Canal de Montech, you'll find small towns such as Montech that provide opportunities for refreshments. Many routes pass through or near villages where local establishments cater to cyclists.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The no-traffic road cycling routes around Montbeton offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll experience the flat, fertile plains of the Tarn and Garonne rivers, ideal for relaxed riding. Many routes follow tranquil canal-side greenways, providing serene, tree-lined paths. While the focus is on no-traffic, the broader region also features rolling hills and wooded areas, particularly along the ecologically significant Tarn River.
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