The best MTB trails around Vandenesse
4.1
(7)
37
riders
8
rides
Mountain biking around Vandenesse offers diverse terrain, characterized by the Burgundy Canal and surrounding hills. The region features a network of paths that follow waterways and ascend into areas with notable elevation changes. These routes traverse a mix of open landscapes and wooded sections, providing varied riding experiences. The area's geography supports both longer, flatter canal-side rides and more challenging routes with significant climbs.
Best mountain bike trails around Vandenesse
- The most popular mountain bike trail is The Park Bistro…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
4
riders
27.8km
01:46
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
2
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
Sign up for free
4.7
(3)
3
riders
48.8km
03:01
520m
520m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
24.0km
01:40
270m
270m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. 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
Tips from the Community
Built on a granite outcrop, the Virgin of Onlay overlooks the village and offers a beautiful panorama of the valley. This statue, dating from 1900 and once a place of procession, remains an iconic landmark of the Morvan region.
0
0
The photo does not correspond to the St Honoré thermal baths but to the old Morvan hotel with the restaurant of the current casino in the glass roof.
0
0
A magnificent view of the town
0
0
Pretty village typical of the region with several shops, cafes and restaurants. All that remains are the ramparts and two partially preserved buildings of the Moulins-Engilbert castle which dates from the 10th to the 15th centuries.
0
0
In 1723 there was a glassworks in Vandenesse. In the 18th century the riches of Vandenesse gave rise to quarries, mines, forges, a metallurgical furnace, a fulling mill, an oil mill and mills as well as a nuns' convent which closed around 1970. At the end of the 19th century the village turned to agriculture and livestock. In the 20th century industrial and artisanal activities stopped, during the rural exodus the village became depopulated. Today tourists can admire the pretty village and the Castle.
0
0
You will notice that most castles are located in strategic defensive positions, which is not the case with this castle. But the region around the castle is crossed by the Dragne river which served as a natural defense on one side. The castle is privately owned, but can be admired from the main road.
0
0
Small pass at an altitude of 408m, approximately 2km long, which culminates, as its name suggests, at a place called Montarons.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Vandenesse?
There are 8 mountain bike trails documented around Vandenesse on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners in Vandenesse?
Yes, the region offers easy routes, such as the Nivernais Canal – Nivernais Canal loop from Cercy-la-Tour. This 21.7 miles (35.0 km) path provides a gentler ride along the Nivernais Canal, ideal for those new to mountain biking.
What are the typical lengths and elevation gains of mountain bike trails around Vandenesse?
Trail lengths and elevation gains vary significantly. For instance, the Chaumigny Lock – Canal du Nivernais loop from Cercy-la-Tour is 45.4 miles (73.1 km) with about 282 meters of elevation gain. In contrast, the Col des Montarons – Saint-Honoré-les-Bains loop from Saint-Honoré-les-Bains is 21.6 miles (34.8 km) but features a more substantial 726 meters of ascent.
Are there any advanced or challenging mountain bike trails in the Vandenesse area?
While there are no trails explicitly rated as 'difficult' in the current selection, routes like the Col des Montarons – Saint-Honoré-les-Bains loop from Saint-Honoré-les-Bains offer significant climbs, with over 726 meters of elevation gain, providing a good challenge for experienced riders.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails around Vandenesse?
The terrain around Vandenesse is diverse, characterized by paths following the historic Canal du Nivernais and ascents into surrounding hills, including areas like the Col des Montarons. You'll encounter a mix of open landscapes and potentially wooded sections, offering varied riding experiences.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes available in Vandenesse?
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Vandenesse are designed as loops. Examples include the The Park Bistro – Saint-Honoré-les-Bains loop from Lanty and the Col des Montarons – Saint-Honoré-les-Bains loop from Isenay, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What interesting landmarks or attractions can I see along the mountain bike trails in Vandenesse?
Along the trails, you can discover several points of interest. The Canal du Nivernais itself is a prominent feature. You might also pass through or near the town of Saint-Honoré-les-Bains, or spot historical sites like Eglise romane de Préporché and Vandenesse Castle.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about mountain biking in Vandenesse?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, from gentle canal paths to challenging hill climbs, and the scenic beauty of the region.
Is Vandenesse a good destination for mountain biking with children or families?
The presence of easy, relatively flat routes along the Canal du Nivernais, such as the Nivernais Canal – Nivernais Canal loop from Cercy-la-Tour, makes Vandenesse a suitable option for families looking for less strenuous rides. These paths offer a safe and enjoyable environment for younger riders.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Vandenesse?
While specific conditions can vary, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for mountain biking. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially along shaded canal paths, but be mindful of warmer weather.
Are there any mountain bike trails in Vandenesse that offer scenic viewpoints?
Routes that ascend into the hills, particularly those around the Col des Montarons, are likely to offer scenic viewpoints over the surrounding countryside. The varied landscape of open fields and wooded areas provides many picturesque moments.
Most popular attractions around Vandenesse
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best MTB trails in other regions.
