4.5
(21)
139
riders
11
rides
Gravel biking around Vauxrenard offers a diverse landscape of rolling vineyards, expansive forested hills, and picturesque river valleys, particularly along the Saône. The region's varied terrain provides a network of routes combining paved sections with unpaved paths through natural environments. Cyclists can navigate through the iconic Beaujolais-Villages appellation and explore the woodlands of the Monts du Beaujolais. This area features significant elevation gains, providing challenging experiences for gravel bikers.
Last updated: October 22, 2026
4.0
(3)
46
riders
171km
08:22
250m
250m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
32
riders
108km
05:31
170m
170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.8
(6)
10
riders
37.7km
02:22
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
37
riders
85.5km
04:24
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
7
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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The Moulin à Vent near Les Thorins stands visibly amidst the vineyards of Romanèche-Thorins in the Beaujolais region. The stone windmill was likely built towards the end of the 15th century and originally served for grinding grain. It gave the surrounding wine-growing area its current name Moulin-à-Vent; previously, the wines were primarily known as "Vins des Thorins". Already in the 18th and 19th centuries, these wines enjoyed an excellent reputation. In 1924, Moulin-à-Vent was designated as its own Cru, followed by recognition as an AOC in 1936. The mill has been restored several times and has been a listed historical monument (Monument historique) since 1930. Today, it is considered the landmark of one of the most famous Crus of Beaujolais.
1
0
was wonderful to ride!
0
0
An idyllic, paved cycle path directly on the riverbank. It is a section of the well-known French long-distance cycle route „La Voie Bleue - Moselle-Saône Radweg" (Route V50) along the Saône. The entire long-distance cycle route covers around 700 kilometers from the Luxembourg border town of Apach (near the tripoint) to Lyon. The Saône section follows the natural meanders of the Saône, passing meadows, historic villages, and well-known wine-growing regions such as Mâcon. The route is mostly flat on former towpaths.
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An idyllic, asphalted cycle path right on the riverbank. This is a section of the well-known French long-distance cycle route "La Voie Bleue - Moselle-Saône Radweg" (Route V50) along the Saône. The entire long-distance cycle route runs for around 700 kilometers from the French border town of Apach (near the tripoint) to Lyon. The Saône section follows the natural meanders of the Saône, passing meadows, historic villages, and well-known wine-growing regions such as Mâcon. The route runs mostly flat on former towpaths.
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The historic old town of Tournus, a French town in the Burgundy region (Saône-et-Loire department). Main attractions: Saint-Philibert Abbey Church: One of the most important Romanesque buildings in France from the 11th and 12th centuries. Picturesque alleys: The old town is characterized by narrow, right-angled streets, colorful facades, and flat roofs with round tiles that have a Mediterranean feel. Hôtel-Dieu: A historic hospital with a well-preserved, ornate 17th-century pharmacy. Greuze Monument: A statue in honor of the famous painter Jean-Baptiste Greuze, born in Tournus in 1725.
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The Saint-Laurent Bridge (Pont Saint-Laurent) is a historic stone bridge that spans the Saône River. It connects the town of Mâcon in the Saône-et-Loire department with the municipality of Saint-Laurent-sur-Saône in the Ain department. Initial wooden structures were already built by the Romans. The current stone bridge dates back to the 11th century in its core and is considered the oldest bridge over the Saône. The structure consists of twelve stone arches. On one of the pillars, there is a statue of Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of boatmen. It is one of the few historic structures in the region that survived the demolitions of World War II unscathed.
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Picturesque mill, which nestles idyllically into the landscape.
2
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The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Vauxrenard offer a diverse landscape. You'll cycle through the iconic rolling vineyards of the Beaujolais-Villages, expansive forested hills of the Monts du Beaujolais, and picturesque river valleys, particularly along the Saône. This varied terrain combines paved sections with unpaved paths, providing a rich and scenic experience.
While many routes in the region feature significant elevation gains, there are options that are more accessible. For a relatively flatter experience, consider La Voie Bleue – Beauregard loop from Romanèche-Thorins. This route offers a moderate difficulty and lower elevation gain, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous ride away from traffic.
For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, routes like Between Tournus and Mâcon – La Voie Bleue loop from Crêches-sur-Saône offer a difficult grade with substantial distance and elevation. Another demanding option is the Col du Fût d'Avenas – Madonna Chapel loop from Fleurie, which features significant climbs through the forested hills.
The trails around Vauxrenard are rich with natural beauty and historical sites. You can encounter geological wonders like the Géosite des Aiguillettes, offering insights into the region's past. Along your ride, you might also pass historic stone buildings, charming churches, and local wine domaines. For specific attractions, consider exploring highlights such as Roche de Solutré or Vergisson Rock.
Yes, several no-traffic gravel bike routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include La Voie Bleue – Beauregard loop from Romanèche-Thorins and La Saône, great cycle routes 👍 loop from Crêches-sur-Saône, which offer convenient circular journeys through the scenic landscape.
The Beaujolais region, including Vauxrenard, is beautiful throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery, with vineyards changing colors. Summer can be warm, but the forested sections provide welcome shade. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions on unpaved paths.
Vauxrenard itself is a small village, so direct public transport links to specific trailheads might be limited. However, you can consider public transport options to larger nearby towns like Mâcon or Tournus, and then cycle or arrange local transport to reach the starting points of the trails. For example, some routes, like Between Tournus and Mâcon – La Voie Bleue loop, start from Crêches-sur-Saône, which may have better connections.
While specific trailhead parking isn't always explicitly marked, Vauxrenard and surrounding villages like Fleurie or Romanèche-Thorins typically offer public parking areas. Look for designated parking in village centers or near local amenities, which often serve as convenient starting points for cycling routes. Always ensure you park responsibly and respect local regulations.
Yes, the natural environments around Vauxrenard, particularly in the forested hills, provide opportunities for wildlife observation. The region's diverse ecosystems support various species. You might even find dedicated hides for an immersive experience, as mentioned in local tourism resources like Rhonetourisme, allowing you to spot local fauna while enjoying your ride.
The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Vauxrenard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.45 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning panoramic views of the vineyards and valleys, the tranquility of the forested paths, and the varied terrain that keeps rides interesting. The sense of immersion in nature, away from vehicle traffic, is a frequently highlighted aspect.
While the routes themselves focus on natural and traffic-free paths, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and local amenities in the charming villages you pass through or start from. Vauxrenard itself is considered a beautiful site, and nearby towns like Fleurie or Romanèche-Thorins offer options for refreshments and meals to refuel after your ride.


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