The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Martin-Du-Puy

There are 11 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Martin-Du-Puy, offering a variety of experiences within the Morvan Regional Natural Park. These routes are designed to help you explore the region's wild and preserved landscapes away from vehicular traffic.

The trails in the Morvan Regional Natural Park feature diverse terrain, from deep forests and winding paths to rolling green countryside. You can expect a mix of unpaved roads and scenic trails, often with significant elevation changes, providing both challenging climbs and rewarding descents. The region is known for its rugged beauty, often referred to as 'little French Canada'.

While many routes in the area present a moderate to difficult challenge due to the Morvan's varied elevation, some sections are more accessible. For a moderate option, consider the Col de Razou loop from Velotte, which covers 23.2 km with a manageable elevation gain, making it suitable for those looking for a less strenuous ride.

For a significant challenge, the Lac des Settons North – Settons Lake Dam loop from Dun-les-Places is a demanding 79 km route with over 1300 meters of elevation gain. This trail offers an immersive experience through the heart of the Morvan, perfect for experienced gravel bikers seeking a full-day adventure.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Col de Guitte Longue – Lac de Chaumeçon loop from Chalaux is a 28 km circular route that takes you around picturesque Lac de Chaumeçon, offering beautiful views and a rewarding ride.

The region is rich in natural beauty. Along your rides, you might encounter stunning lakes and impressive man-made structures. Highlights include the Crescent Dam and the Chaumeçon Dam, both offering scenic views. You can also discover tranquil spots like Étang Chaumail and Étang du Moulin du Bois, perfect for a peaceful break.

Absolutely. The Morvan Regional Natural Park is known for its panoramic vistas. Keep an eye out for spots like the View from the Rocher de la Pérouse, which offers breathtaking scenery. The trails often traverse through elevated areas, providing numerous opportunities to enjoy the lush landscapes of forests and rolling hills.

The komoot community rates the trails around Saint-Martin-Du-Puy with an average score of 2.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and natural beauty of the Morvan Regional Natural Park, highlighting the immersive experience of cycling through dense forests and along quiet, unpaved roads, truly away from traffic.

For a balanced ride that offers both distance and elevation without being overly extreme, consider the Quarré-les-Tombes loop from Villaine. This 23.4 km route features over 500 meters of elevation gain, providing a good workout while allowing you to enjoy the peaceful Morvan scenery.

If you're looking for a shorter, yet still engaging, gravel ride, the Col du Poteau de Montvigne loop from Vignes-le-Bas is an excellent choice. This 15.5 km route has a moderate difficulty grade and offers nearly 300 meters of elevation gain, perfect for a refreshing ride without committing to a full-day excursion.

The Morvan Regional Natural Park is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking. During these seasons, the weather is typically milder, and the natural scenery, with blooming flora or vibrant fall foliage, is particularly stunning. Summer can also be great, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially on longer routes.