4.5
(239)
3,665
riders
68
rides
Touring cycling around Chitry-Les-Mines offers routes through the gentle landscapes of the Nièvre department in Burgundy. The region is characterized by its network of canals, particularly the Canal du Nivernais, which provides flat, scenic towpaths ideal for cycling. Riders will encounter a mix of agricultural fields, small villages, and forested areas, with modest elevation changes. The terrain generally consists of rolling hills and river valleys, suitable for various cycling abilities.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4.5
(4)
8
riders
37.3km
02:30
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(7)
57
riders
30.0km
01:46
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.8
(22)
144
riders
31.5km
01:51
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(13)
73
riders
96.3km
05:34
340m
340m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
30
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
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
The Canal du Nivernais During the harsh winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. Wood had to be transported from other forests, particularly from the Bazois. To solve this problem, the construction of a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne was considered. Work began in 1784 with the boring of "La Montagne" at La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigable canal was planned. After 56 years of construction, the three tunnels were completed in 1840, and on March 15, 1841, the Nivernais Canal was officially opened. In the first four decades, the canal saw an increase in traffic, as it served as a means of transport for heavy loads such as stone, wood, and coal. With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the advent of the railway, the decline of navigation on the canal began. In the 1970s, political will and financial support were needed to promote river tourism, ecotourism, and cycling tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France, thanks to its gentle cruising.
0
0
The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to build a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the drilling of "La Montagne" from La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official commissioning of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (especially stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the busiest canals in France due to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
0
0
The Nivernais Canal During the cold winter of 1782-1783, the Morvan forest was no longer sufficient to supply the capital with wood. It became necessary to transport wood from other forests, those of Bazois. Work was then considered to create a small channel between the Loire and the Yonne. In 1784, construction began with the boring of "La Montagne" in La Collancelle, and in 1786, the construction of a navigation canal was planned. In 1840, the construction of the three tunnels was completed, then on March 15, 1841, the official opening of the Nivernais Canal took place. In the first 40 years, traffic on the canal increased, and it was also used as a means of transport for heavy loads (particularly stone, but also wood and coal). With the decline in demand for wood in the capital and the development of the railway, navigation on the canal began to decline. In the 1970s, political will and funding were needed to develop river tourism, ecotourism, and cycle tourism. To this day, the Canal du Nivernais is one of the most frequented canals in France, thanks to its philosophy of gentle roaming.
0
0
There are no two alike! Plus, it's excellent with quality local products Yep & Pèt' https://maps.app.goo.gl/d31KRAa95boizLW16
0
0
pleasant and shaded
0
0
Very friendly owners. Nice place for a bite and a drink. Name is " Yep and Pet "
1
0
There are over 60 touring cycling routes in the Chitry-Les-Mines area. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 16 easy, 36 moderate, and 17 difficult options.
Yes, beginners can enjoy routes like the Manual Drawbridge – Canal du Nivernais loop from Corbigny. This easy 30.7 km route offers gentle terrain along the canal, perfect for a relaxed ride.
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, consider the From Corbigny to Lormes via the étang du Goulot — sporting circuit. This difficult 37.3 km route features significant elevation gain through varied rural landscapes.
Absolutely. The region is well-suited for longer rides, with routes such as the Canal du Nivernais – Canal de Nivernais Towpath loop from Corbigny. This extensive 168.2 km trail follows the scenic Nivernais Canal valley and can be completed in about 9-10 hours.
Many routes in the area are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An excellent example is the Collancelle Locks – Canal de Nivernais loop from Corbigny, a moderate 31 km path that takes you along the historic Canal du Nivernais and its famous locks.
The gentle landscapes of the Nièvre department are particularly pleasant for touring cycling from spring through early autumn. During these seasons, the weather is generally mild, and the canal towpaths and rural roads are ideal for exploration.
The flat, scenic towpaths along the Canal du Nivernais are perfect for family cycling. These routes offer safe, car-free environments and manageable distances, making them suitable for all ages. Look for the 'easy' graded routes for the most family-friendly options.
The routes often follow the Canal de Nivernais Towpath, where you can admire the historic Collancelle Locks. You might also pass through charming villages and agricultural fields, with opportunities to explore the Town of Corbigny or relax by Baye Pond.
Many routes offer views of the picturesque Canal du Nivernais and its engineering marvels like the Cuncy Lock. The Chitry‑les‑Mines Castle – View of Château de Chitry loop from Chitry-les-Mines specifically highlights views of the local château.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil canal towpaths, the gentle rolling agricultural land, and the charming small village roads that define the cycling experience here.
While Chitry-Les-Mines itself is a small village, the nearby town of Corbigny serves as a more accessible hub, often featuring in the starting points of many routes. It's advisable to check local bus or train services for connections to Corbigny or other key points along the Canal du Nivernais.
For routes starting in or near Chitry-Les-Mines, you can typically find parking in the village center or at designated spots near the Canal du Nivernais access points. For routes originating in larger towns like Corbigny, there are usually public parking areas available.


Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.