The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois
4.6
(11)
469
riders
50
rides
Road cycling around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois, located in the Orne department of Normandy, offers a network of no traffic road cycling routes through varied terrain. The region is characterized by rolling hills, extensive forests such as the Écouves Forest, and the proximity to the Normandy-Maine Regional Natural Park. Cyclists encounter a mix of ascents, including the Mont des Avaloirs, the highest point of the Armorican massif, and stretches of quiet country roads. This landscape provides diverse options for road cyclists seeking routes without heavy vehicle traffic.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Carrouges Castle – Manoir de Joué-du-Bois loop from Ciral, a 59.8 miles (96.3 km) trail that takes 4 hours 32 minutes to complete. This difficult route features over 3,496 feet (1,065 meters) of elevation gain.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Mont des Avaloirs viewpoint – La Roche-Mabile loop from L'Orée-d'Écouves, a moderate 30.8 miles (49.5 km) path. This route includes significant climbs towards the Mont des Avaloirs viewpoint, offering panoramic views.
- Local road cyclists also love the Castle of the Dukes of Alençon – Saint-Léonard-des-Bois loop from Lalacelle, a 66.6 miles (107.2 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 4 hours 53 minutes.
- Road cycling around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois is defined by rolling hills, dense forests like the Écouves Forest, and the challenging ascents of the Armorican massif. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to difficult long-distance routes.
- The routes in Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from 9 reviews. More than 400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
11
riders
92.3km
04:18
1,010m
1,010m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5
riders
49.6km
02:33
670m
680m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5
riders
61.4km
02:57
620m
620m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4
riders
45.6km
02:04
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
38.6km
01:56
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois
Tips from the Community
Riding up there by bike was quite strenuous, but the view from the top was worth the effort. It was well worth it.
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In 1874, the project for a new church was born, at the instigation of Father Macé, then vicar, who had the municipality and even the priest against him. The nave, however, was completed in 1878, the tower the following year, the consecration took place in 1881. The building is constructed of local granite, also in Romanesque style but its axis is perpendicular to that of the old one, the entrance towards the road to Carrouges-La Ferté. The nave is supported by ten granite pillars made from a single piece and 2 m. high. The only treasure is the altar decoration, Louis XIII, given by Father Dufriche-Desgenettes to his friend Father Lapierre. Father Husson made the furnishings of the sacristy and the church with his own hands: stalls, confessionals, pulpit. Burned by bombing on August 14, 1944, the church was unusable. In 1953, after extensive restoration, religious services were reinstated, and two years later, the three bells were replaced, along with the stained-glass windows themselves. Those in the choir depict the life of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint; four smaller ones depict the four chapels of Joué (La Raîtière, Le Bel, St-Jacques, and St-Roch) with the coats of arms of the founding families. A lintel bearing the Le Verrier coat of arms, taken from the seigneurial chapel dedicated to Saints Hubert and Suzanne in the church, was incorporated into the tower's masonry; this lintel was designed in La Chaux, by the Count of Contades.
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The church dates from the 13th and 16th centuries. The bell tower, porch, transept, and choir have been listed as historic monuments since December 22, 1927.
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very varied and pleasant hike
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2 perforations visible on the 12th photo of the Sherman M4A2 "Valois"
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An endless false flat. Remember to carry water because there's nothing to refuel.
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Very beautiful castle. The outside area is very interesting and a nice walk. Unfortunately I didn't see the inside of the castle. The bicycle parking area is behind the archway on the inside on the right.
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Beautiful 360 degree view
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois?
There are over 45 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois, offering a wide range of options for exploring the region's quiet country roads and scenic landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic road cycling routes?
The region around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois features a diverse terrain, from rolling hills and picturesque countryside to the dense Écouves Forest. You'll find routes with gentle slopes through wooded areas and more challenging ascents, particularly near the Mont des Avaloirs viewpoint, the highest point of the Armorican massif.
Are there any easy, traffic-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 4 easy, traffic-free road cycling routes around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. These routes typically feature smoother terrain and less elevation gain, allowing for a comfortable cycling experience.
Can I find challenging, traffic-free road cycling routes with significant climbs?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 4 difficult traffic-free road cycling routes. These often include significant elevation gains, such as those found on the Carrouges Castle – Manoir de Joué-du-Bois loop from Ciral, which features over 1000 meters of ascent.
What historical landmarks can I visit while cycling traffic-free around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois?
Several routes pass by significant historical sites. You can cycle to the impressive Carrouges Castle, a Renaissance architectural gem, or explore the charming village of Saint-Ceneri-le-Gerei, known as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages'. The Sherman tank – Carrouges Castle loop from Carrouges is one route that includes the castle.
Are there any scenic viewpoints on the no-traffic road cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers breathtaking views. The Mont des Avaloirs viewpoint provides a stunning 360° panorama of the surrounding forests and peaks. Another notable spot is Le signal d'Écouves, offering elevated perspectives of the landscape. Consider the Mont des Avaloirs viewpoint – La Roche-Mabile loop from L'Orée-d'Écouves for these vistas.
What natural features will I encounter on these routes?
You'll cycle through the serene Écouves Forest, home to unique attractions like a sculpted giant sequoia. The routes also traverse parts of the Normandy-Maine Regional Natural Park, an area rich in ecological diversity, with the Sarthon river and its affluents forming part of a Natura 2000 conservation area.
Are there circular traffic-free road cycling routes available?
Many of the routes around Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Castle of the Dukes of Alençon – Saint-Léonard-des-Bois loop from Lalacelle, which offers a comprehensive tour of the area's highlights.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road biking in Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Is parking available near the starting points of these routes?
Yes, many of the routes start from villages or towns where public parking is typically available. For example, routes often begin in places like Ciral, L'Orée-d'Écouves, or Carrouges, which offer convenient parking options for cyclists.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Saint-Ellier-Les-Bois?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic roads, the diverse and beautiful landscapes, and the rewarding climbs that offer spectacular views, especially around the Mont des Avaloirs.
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