The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac De La Bultiere
4.0
(26)
114
riders
30
rides
Gravel biking around Lac De La Bultiere offers diverse terrain within the "bocage vendéen" landscape, characterized by gentle, rolling hills, meadows, and hedges. The area features a mix of paved surfaces, unpaved paths, forest trails, and agricultural tracks, providing varied experiences for cyclists. The artificial lake, created by a dam on the Grande Maine river, is a central feature, with trails offering views of its tranquil waters and surrounding hilly terrain. This preserved natural environment is recognized as an ecological…
Last updated: July 7, 2026
4
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
7
riders
44.0km
03:01
320m
320m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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2
riders
33.2km
02:00
170m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
92.5km
06:01
560m
560m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
54.3km
03:32
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Lac De La Bultiere
Tips from the Community
A beautifully restored old watermill, in the heart of a beautiful natural site.
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19th century church whose unfinished bell tower was topped with a slate spire which clashes a little - a lot - with the rest of the monument.
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A truly unusual place, worth the detour.
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A truly cool gravel path with the beautiful Neuf Pond nestled in the greenery of the Bois des Gâts, reminiscent of Canada. From the path, you can also glimpse the beautiful Château de Rortheau through the trees. The passage over the Mongeoire stream can be damp in winter. The area around the Bois des Gâts maquis was a key resistance center between 1940 and 1944, as explained by numerous signs all the way to Dompierre.
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A vast network of beautiful trails in a dense forest. There's plenty to enjoy.
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It was here, in wooden huts, that the civilian population fled General Turreau's infernal columns. From the road, you can't see much, but the visit seems interesting. A pretty pond is nearby with picnic tables and a small bar serving drinks and ice cream.
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Splendid windmill located near the Sanctuary of La Salette. Built in 1830.
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La Roche-Pépin, a village in Saint-Georges and its abandoned chapel—this could have been the headline in the newspaper Ouest-France in May 1992. Indeed, in the heart of the Saint-Georges hamlet stands the Chapel of the Blessed Virgin, located on the pilgrims' route to Santiago de Compostela. A chapel with the distinction of belonging to the village's inhabitants. The construction of this building began in 1858, without the bishop's authorization. Its founders, Eugène Jaunet (mayor of Saint-Georges in 1857) and his sisters Victorine and Elisa, were a wealthy family who fed the poor. On May 16, 1859, Monsignor Delamare blessed the chapel. A building that, after their deaths, would gradually fall into disrepair. But the month of Mary continued to be celebrated there until 1952. Miss Gris, who looked after the chapel, said, "When I was young, we celebrated the month of Mary there, avoiding standing under the dangerous areas." The upper part of the chapel deteriorated, and in 1970, the slate roof finally collapsed. Father Jagueneau, who had attempted repairs, gave up due to the scale and cost of the work. The bell that rang the Angelus and for funerals was almost taken down in 1972. Only the sacred stone of the altar was removed. In 1986, a stone falling from the top of the building hit a car, creating controversy and tension among the villagers, some of whom reinforced the upper part of the walls. Michel Bonnet, the mayor, gathered the villagers to discuss a crucial question: should the chapel be razed, as some local residents suggested, or should funds be raised to restore the building? In 1992, under the leadership of Marc Jaulin, the Association for the Preservation of Heritage was founded and raised funds for two years to restore the chapel. The restoration took place from May 1993 to May 1997, requiring 545 hours of volunteer work, at a total cost of €42,662, of which €32,342 was funded by the association and municipal and departmental grants. Today, the restored and flower-bedecked chapel is open to visitors, and the month of Mary is celebrated there in May. Léone Epaulais, who arranges flowers and maintains the chapel, also recalls a legend: "More than a hundred years ago, the crown of the Blessed Virgin was thrown onto the flames of a fire, and the fire went out."
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free gravel bike trails can I find around Lac De La Bultière?
There are over 30 traffic-free gravel bike routes available around Lac De La Bultière, ranging from easy to difficult. This guide features 32 such routes, with 2 easy, 22 moderate, and 8 difficult options, ensuring a suitable ride for various skill levels.
Are there family-friendly or easy gravel bike routes around Lac De La Bultière?
Yes, the area is well-suited for family-friendly rides. The dedicated 15 km path encircling Lac De La Bultière is a popular and generally easy option, offering continuous views of the lake. For a slightly longer, moderate option, consider the Le Moulin de la Templerie – Lac de la Bultière loop from La Boissière-de-Montaigu, which is just over 32 km with gentle elevation changes.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking around Lac De La Bultière?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking around Lac De La Bultière. The weather is typically mild, and the natural landscape, with its bocage vendéen and lush trees, is particularly beautiful. Summer can be warm, but early mornings or late afternoons are still enjoyable. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddier after rain.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Lac De La Bultière?
Yes, many of the gravel routes around Lac De La Bultière are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the Bultière Dam – Lac de la Bultière loop from Bazoges-en-Paillers, which covers over 43 km and offers diverse scenery without needing to retrace your steps.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these gravel trails?
The gravel trails around Lac De La Bultière traverse the characteristic 'bocage vendéen' landscape. You'll experience a mix of gentle, rolling hills, meadows, hedgerows, and verdant paths. Expect tranquil waters, lush trees, and tall grasses, with consistent superb views of the calm lake and surrounding hilly terrain. The routes often combine paved surfaces, unpaved paths, forest trails, and agricultural tracks.
Are there places to park my car when visiting the gravel trails?
Yes, parking is generally available in the towns and villages surrounding Lac De La Bultière, which serve as common starting points for many routes. For example, areas near Bazoges-en-Paillers, La Boissière-de-Montaigu, or Saint-Fulgent offer convenient access to the trail network.
What attractions or landmarks can I see along the gravel bike routes?
While cycling, you'll enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and its ecological reserve. Some routes may pass near historical sites like Tiffauges Castle or Logis de la Chabotterie, which are part of the broader regional heritage. The Mont des Alouettes, with its windmills, is also a notable nearby landmark. The lake itself is known for its fishing and water sports activities at the Base Nautique de la Bultière.
Can I find cafes or restaurants along the gravel bike routes?
While the routes themselves focus on natural, traffic-free paths, you'll find cafes, restaurants, and other amenities in the nearby towns and villages such as Bazoges-en-Paillers, La Boissière-de-Montaigu, or Saint-Fulgent. It's a good idea to plan your stops in these areas, especially for longer rides, as options directly on the trails are limited.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about cycling around Lac De La Bultière?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the diverse and scenic landscapes of the bocage, and the consistent views of the beautiful lake. The variety of terrain, from forest trails to agricultural tracks, also makes it a popular choice for adventure cyclists.
Are there any longer or more challenging gravel bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. The Bultière Dam – Lac de la Bultière loop from Saint-Fulgent is a demanding option, covering over 92 km with significant elevation gain. Another challenging route is the Grasla Refuge – Château de la Chabotterie loop from Chavagnes-en-Paillers, which spans over 55 km and features varied terrain.
Is public transport available to reach the gravel bike trails around Lac De La Bultière?
Public transport options directly to the trailheads around Lac De La Bultière may be limited. It is generally recommended to travel by car to the surrounding towns and villages, which serve as convenient starting points for the routes. Check local Vendée transport services for specific bus routes that might connect to the larger towns near the lake.
Most popular routes around Lac De La Bultiere
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