The best traffic-free bike rides around Chacé
4.3
(32)
284
riders
31
rides
Gravel biking around Chacé provides diverse landscapes within the Saumur Val de Loire region, ideal for exploring on two wheels. The terrain features extensive vineyards, tranquil riverside paths along the Loire and Thouet rivers, and a mix of agricultural lands and woodlands. This varied environment ensures a dynamic riding experience, transitioning from smoother paths to more rugged tracks across rolling countryside and verdant valleys.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Chacé
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
4.0
(1)
11
riders
52.4km
03:37
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
11
riders
47.7km
03:03
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
6
riders
30.0km
02:00
270m
270m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
65.5km
03:53
630m
630m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
96.4km
05:40
830m
830m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Chacé
Tips from the Community
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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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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A castle-palace of the Dukes of Anjou in the 19th and 19th centuries, the Château de Saumur, where King René resided, is the last example of the princely palaces built by the Valois dynasty. It served as the residence of the city's governors, a prison, and later an arms and ammunition depot. It was purchased by the city in 1906 to house the municipal museum, now the Musée de France. Today, we discover the rich collections scattered throughout the former apartments of the Dukes of Anjou in an educational museography. Want to know more? Click here: https://www.ot-saumur.fr/en/castles-and-country-houses/Saumurcastle-5261718/
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice there for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. In February 2025, a fire broke out. Source Wikipedia
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. A fire broke out in February 2025. Source Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Chacé?
There are over 25 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Chacé, offering a variety of experiences. These routes are designed to keep you away from cars, allowing for a peaceful and immersive ride through the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic gravel trails near Chacé?
The no-traffic gravel trails around Chacé offer a diverse mix of terrain. You'll find riverside paths along the Loire and Thouet rivers, extensive vineyards, agricultural lands, and woodlands. This varied landscape ensures a dynamic riding experience, transitioning from smoother paths to more rugged tracks, often with rolling countryside and green valleys.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Chacé?
While many routes are moderate to difficult, the region's extensive network includes paths suitable for families. Look for routes that stick to flatter riverside sections or well-maintained vineyard tracks. The varied terrain means you can often find less challenging segments within longer tours, perfect for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel bike trails around Chacé?
Many natural areas and paths around Chacé are dog-friendly, especially those away from heavy traffic. However, it's always best to check local regulations for specific trails, particularly when passing through private vineyards or nature reserves. Ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where required.
What historical attractions can I see along the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
The region is rich in history! Many no-traffic gravel routes offer views of or pass by magnificent châteaux. For example, the Château de Saumur – Loire Riverside Gravel Trail loop from Saumur takes you past the impressive Château de Saumur. You might also encounter the unique Souzay-Champigny troglodyte site or ride near charming villages like Turquant.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, Chacé offers several challenging no-traffic gravel routes. For instance, the View of the Loire – Château de Saumur loop from Saumur is a difficult 96.4 km route with significant elevation gain, providing a demanding ride through varied landscapes. Another difficult option is the Le Thoureil Village – View of the Loire loop from Saumur, spanning 65.5 km.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Chacé?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel trails around Chacé, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of the car-free paths, the stunning views of the Loire River and its castles, and the immersive experience of riding through vineyards and woodlands. The diverse terrain and cultural highlights are frequently mentioned as key attractions.
Are there circular no-traffic gravel bike trails available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails around Chacé are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur Castle loop from Varrains and the Loire Riverside at Turquant – Fontevraud loop from Montsoreau, which offer convenient round trips.
What natural features can I expect to see on these trails?
The no-traffic gravel trails in this region are rich in natural beauty. You'll ride alongside the serene Loire and Thouet rivers, through extensive vineyards, and into shaded forests and woodlands. The rolling countryside and green valleys provide a picturesque backdrop, with opportunities to spot local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of the French countryside.
Is parking available near the trailheads for no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, as Chacé is part of a well-developed cycling region, you can typically find parking in or near the starting points of many routes, especially in larger towns like Saumur or Montsoreau. Look for public parking areas in villages or designated spots near popular attractions that serve as trail access points.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Chacé?
The best time for gravel biking in Chacé is generally from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is usually pleasant, the vineyards are lush, and the rivers are vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours, but spring and autumn provide cooler temperatures, ideal for longer rides, and showcase the changing colors of the landscape.
Are there any easy no-traffic gravel bike trails for beginners?
While the guide primarily features moderate to difficult routes, the broader Saumur Val de Loire region offers circuits ranging from 11 km upwards. Beginners can look for shorter, flatter sections along the Loire River or within specific vineyard areas, which often provide smoother, less technical surfaces away from traffic. These can be a great starting point to build confidence.
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