In the Footsteps of Colette Loop

This is a moderate road ride, requiring good fitness. While the terrain is mostly well-paved and easy to ride, be prepared for some segments that may be unpaved and difficult to ride. The loop covers 72.6 kilometers with approximately 700 meters of elevation gain.

The loop offers several notable sights. You'll start in Entrains-sur-Nohain Town Center, an ancient Gallo-Roman town. The route also passes through Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines, a village with a castle, and features the Colette Heritage Sites in Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye, including her childhood home and the Colette Museum.

You can typically find parking in Entrains-sur-Nohain Town Center, which is the starting point for this loop. Look for public parking areas within the town.

Given its moderate difficulty and requirement for good fitness, this route is generally not recommended for absolute beginners. It's best suited for cyclists with some experience and a reasonable level of endurance.

The best time to cycle this route is typically during the spring, summer, or early autumn months when the weather is milder and the French countryside is at its most picturesque. Avoid extreme heat or cold, and check local forecasts before you go.

As this is primarily a road cycling route, dogs are generally not permitted to accompany cyclists on the bike itself for safety reasons. If you plan to visit towns or attractions along the way, check their specific pet policies.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle this public road cycling loop. However, if you plan to visit attractions like La Maison de Colette or the Colette Museum, they may have their own admission fees.

The route primarily features mostly well-paved surfaces that are easy to ride. However, cyclists should be prepared for the possibility that some segments may be unpaved and difficult to ride, particularly on smaller country roads.

Yes, you'll find local shops, restaurants, and cafes in Entrains-sur-Nohain Town Center, where the loop begins. The route also passes through charming villages like Druyes-les-Belles-Fontaines and Saint-Sauveur-en-Puisaye, which offer opportunities for refreshments.

While primarily a distinct loop, the route does briefly intersect with very small segments of other local paths, such as Parcours du parking de la Porte de la Ville, Tour des Méandres de l'Yonne, and Place du Puits de Fer, among others. These are generally short sections and not major connecting trails.

On average, this 72.6-kilometer road cycling loop takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your cycling speed, fitness level, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit attractions.