The best traffic-free bike rides around Buffières
2.2
(4)
92
riders
3
rides
No traffic gravel bike trails around Buffières are found in the Saône-et-Loire region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, characterized by rolling hills, dense woodlands, and open prairies. The landscape features prominent hills like Butte de Suin and Mont Saint-Cyr, offering panoramic views of the surrounding areas. The area also includes Natura 2000 zones with hedgerows, dry stone walls, and sunken paths, providing diverse terrain for gravel cycling. This region offers a mix of natural settings and historical heritage, including ancient rural dwellings and churches.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Buffières
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Cluny – Bressard loop from Mâcon, a 43.8 miles (70.4 km) trail that takes 6 hours 5 minutes to complete. This route features significant elevation gain through varied rural landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Cluny – Voie verte of Southern Burgundy loop from Mâcon, a difficult 61.6 miles (99.1 km) path. This extensive loop explores the Southern Burgundy region, including parts of the Voie Verte, with substantial climbing.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Saint-Blaise Romanesque church loop from Mazille, a 15.6 miles (25.1 km) trail leading through rural areas and past historical sites, often completed in about 1 hour 47 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Buffières is defined by rolling hills, dense forests, and open prairies. The network offers options for different ability levels, though the listed routes are challenging.
- The routes in Buffières are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 1.0 stars from 2 reviews. More than 30 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Buffières's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
3.3
(3)
75
riders
99.0km
07:59
2,010m
2,010m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
70.7km
06:07
1,500m
1,500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
1.0
(1)
1
riders
25.1km
01:47
490m
490m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Buffières
Tips from the Community
The former Cluny-Chalon-sur-Saône railway line has been decommissioned. The old station grounds now serve as the central bus stop ("Cluny Gare") for regional buses. Lines 701 and 709 of the Mobigo network connect the town to the TGV station in Mâcon in about 30 minutes. Directly at the old station runs the Voie Verte (an asphalted railway path cycle route). There is a large e-bike and bicycle rental service on site for tourists.
1
0
Founded in 910, the Benedictine abbey developed into the starting point of the Cluniac reform movement. In the High Middle Ages, it was one of the most influential religious and political centers in Western Europe. At its peak, the Cluny congregation comprised around 1,200 monasteries with over 20,000 monks across the continent. Cluny was independent of secular rulers and local bishops. It was directly subordinate to the Pope in Rome.
1
0
The Château de Berzé-le-Châtel (also known as Forteresse de Berzé) is the largest and best-preserved medieval castle in southern Burgundy. The site dates back to a 10th-century castrum and was strategically built on a rocky outcrop to protect the nearby powerful Abbey of Cluny. The fortress consists of three concentric walls and features 13 towers (including two keeps/donjons) as well as an imposing gatehouse. The heart inside is a remarkable Carolingian chapel.
1
0
The Château de Berzé-le-Châtel (also Forteresse de Berzé) is the largest and best-preserved medieval castle in Southern Burgundy. The complex dates back to a 10th-century castrum and was strategically built on a rocky outcrop to protect the nearby powerful Abbey of Cluny. The fortress consists of three ring walls and has 13 towers (including two keeps/donjons) as well as an imposing gatehouse. The centerpiece inside is a remarkable Carolingian chapel.
0
0
Very beautiful castle. Feel free to visit the monks' chapel of Berzé la ville, with very beautiful paintings from the abbey of Cluny
1
0
In the Middle Ages, the abbey was one of the most influential spiritual and cultural centers in Europe. Cluny was the mother house of the Cluniac Reform and headed a federation of over 1,200 monasteries. The third abbey church (Cluny was the largest church in the Christian world until the construction of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome). Of the once-mighty complex, only parts of the southern transept remain today, as the abbey was largely used as a quarry and demolished after the French Revolution.
1
0
The town of Cluny was based on the Benedictine monastery (Cluniac Abbey), founded in 910. The abbey was the starting point and center of the Cluniac reform at the beginning of the 10th century. Cluny reached its peak membership at the beginning of the 12th century with approximately 400 monks. The last abbey church (Cluniac 3) was the world's largest Romanesque basilica and, until the construction of today's St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, the largest church in Christendom. The church had seven towers. Although large parts of the building were destroyed, the remaining relics are absolutely remarkable and make a visit to Cluny an unforgettable experience!
2
0
A view that is worth it at the top of the hill!
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic gravel bike trails are available around Buffières?
Currently, there are 3 dedicated no traffic gravel bike trails listed around Buffières. These routes offer a challenging experience, as all are rated as difficult, providing significant elevation gains and distances for experienced riders.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in the Buffières area?
The Buffières area, located in Saône-et-Loire, features diverse terrain perfect for gravel biking. You can expect rolling hills, dense wooded areas, and picturesque valleys. The region is characterized by its bocage landscapes, with hedgerows, dry stone walls, and sunken paths, offering a mix of surfaces and scenic views, particularly around the Butte de Suin and Mont Saint-Cyr.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic gravel routes near Buffières?
The listed gravel bike trails around Buffières are currently rated as difficult, making them more suitable for experienced riders rather than families with young children or beginners. However, the broader region, including the Voie verte of Southern Burgundy, offers sections that might be more accessible for families looking for gentler, traffic-free cycling experiences.
What are some notable attractions or landmarks I can see along these routes?
While exploring the no traffic gravel trails around Buffières, you can encounter several interesting points. The Cluny – Voie verte of Southern Burgundy loop from Mâcon, for instance, incorporates parts of the Voie verte of Southern Burgundy. Other nearby highlights include the historic town of Cluny and its famous Cluny Abbey, as well as the Tunnel du bois clair.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, all the listed no traffic gravel bike trails around Buffières are designed as circular routes. For example, you can try the Cluny – Bressard loop from Mâcon or the Saint-Blaise Romanesque church loop from Mazille, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Buffières?
The best time for gravel biking in Buffières generally spans from spring through autumn. During these seasons, the weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy or icy conditions on some unpaved sections.
Are there options for advanced gravel bikers looking for a challenge?
Absolutely. The no traffic gravel bike trails in Buffières are all categorized as difficult, offering significant challenges for advanced riders. Routes like the Cluny – Voie verte of Southern Burgundy loop from Mâcon, with its nearly 100 km distance and over 2000 meters of elevation gain, will certainly test your endurance and skill.
Where can I find parking for these gravel bike trails?
While specific trailhead parking information isn't detailed for every route, many of the longer loops, such as those starting from Mâcon, will have public parking available in or near the starting towns. For routes like the Saint-Blaise Romanesque church loop from Mazille, parking would typically be found within the village of Mazille or nearby designated areas.
Can I bring my dog on these gravel bike trails?
While many outdoor trails in France are dog-friendly, especially in rural areas, it's always advisable to check local regulations for specific paths, particularly those passing through protected Natura 2000 zones. Given the difficult nature of these gravel routes, ensure your dog is fit enough for long distances and varied terrain, and always keep them on a leash for their safety and to protect wildlife.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the no traffic gravel routes in Buffières?
The listed routes traverse rural areas, so direct access to cafes or pubs *on* the trails themselves might be limited. However, starting or ending points like Mâcon or Mazille, and towns along the longer routes such as Cluny, will offer amenities where you can refuel and relax. It's always recommended to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on the longer, more challenging trails.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while gravel biking in Buffières?
The diverse landscapes around Buffières, including its wooded areas, bocage, and Natura 2000 zones, are home to various wildlife. Cyclists might spot local bird species, deer, and other small mammals. The region's natural beauty provides a peaceful setting for observing nature, especially on the quieter, traffic-free sections of the trails.
Most popular attractions around Buffières
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
