The best gravel rides around Varrains
4.3
(35)
350
riders
49
rides
Gravel biking around Varrains offers a diverse landscape characterized by the vineyards of the Saumur-Champigny appellation and the scenic Loire River. The terrain primarily features riverside gravel paths and routes through viticultural areas, with some sections incorporating historical sites. The region's gentle elevation changes make it accessible for various skill levels, though some routes present more challenging climbs. This area provides a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage for gravel cyclists.
Best gravel bike trails around Varrains
- The most…
Last updated: July 16, 2026
4.4
(7)
69
riders
26.5km
01:22
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.8
(9)
60
riders
56.4km
03:17
420m
420m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.0
(1)
15
riders
52.4km
03:37
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
14
riders
47.7km
03:03
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
15
riders
42.7km
02:32
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The sights are good but the terrain is not especially after high winds and heavy rain. Some people might find it tricky to navigate.
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For those who want to discover some art objects.
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The Royal Abbey of Fontevraud is one of the largest monastic communities in Europe dating back to the Middle Ages. It is a place with a rich history, located in the heart of the Loire Valley and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The abbey is a unique cultural site! An abbey with a royal destination, a formidable prison is today a place of creation (museum of modern art).
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Simply enjoy the beautiful views over the city but especially over the mighty Loire River.
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A castle-palace of the Dukes of Anjou in the 19th and 19th centuries, the Château de Saumur, where King René resided, is the last example of the princely palaces built by the Valois dynasty. It served as the residence of the city's governors, a prison, and later an arms and ammunition depot. It was purchased by the city in 1906 to house the municipal museum, now the Musée de France. Today, we discover the rich collections scattered throughout the former apartments of the Dukes of Anjou in an educational museography. Want to know more? Click here: https://www.ot-saumur.fr/en/castles-and-country-houses/Saumurcastle-5261718/
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice there for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. In February 2025, a fire broke out. Source Wikipedia
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History: In 1454, while ploughing his field, a farmer discovered in the "ardille" (clay, a word that according to legend gave its name to Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers) a stone statuette about thirty centimetres high representing a Pietà. The farmer took it home. Twice he discovered that the Pietà returned to its place of discovery, near a fountain that was already known for its healing properties. From that moment on, devotions developed around this statuette, which was placed in a niche under a stone arch. Jean Olivier, Bishop of Angers, laid the foundations of the Notre-Dame-des-Ardilliers chapel. Bishop Gabriel Bouvery, Bishop of Angers, opened the new church on 30 July 1553. It was a place of pilgrimage. The fountain was said to perform miracles. In 1614, thanks to the support of Marie de Medici, the management of the sanctuary was entrusted to the Order of Oratorians. In 1619, they settled in Ardilliers and founded a royal college in 1624. Louis XIII granted it the status of royal chapel and, from 1628 to 1643, the Oratorians built the buildings to the east of the chapel that would house their community, the classrooms and the students' dormitories. From 1634, Richelieu had a chapel built on the north wall of the chapel for votive and funeral purposes. The chapel was closed during the Revolution. The Oratorian house became a barracks and the rotunda was converted into an ammunition store. In 1796, the Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence opened a hospice for the expelled. In 1798, the hospice became the property of the city of Saumur. The chapel was put back into use in 1799, but was damaged by damp. From 1849, architect Charles Joly-Leterme began restoring the building. The Sisters of Sainte-Anne-de-la-Providence became the owners of the former Oratorian House in 1866. During the Battle of the Cadets, in June 1940, the bombing destroyed the roof structures of the chapel and the Oratorian House. The vault of the nave collapsed. The buildings were restored between 1947 and 1957. The oak frame of the dome was replaced by a concrete shell to reduce the pressure on the walls. The Oratorian House was converted into a school in 1953. A fire broke out in February 2025. Source Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Varrains?
There are over 50 gravel bike trails in the Varrains area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels. This includes 3 easy routes, 31 moderate routes, and 18 difficult routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Varrains?
The terrain around Varrains is diverse, primarily featuring scenic riverside gravel paths along the Loire River and routes winding through the vineyards of the Saumur-Champigny appellation. You'll also encounter sections that incorporate historical sites and charming villages. While generally gentle, some routes do present more challenging climbs.
Are there options for beginners or families new to gravel biking in Varrains?
Yes, Varrains offers several easier gravel bike routes suitable for beginners and families. There are 3 identified easy routes, which typically feature gentler terrain and shorter distances, allowing for a more relaxed experience amidst the vineyards and along the river.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while gravel biking around Varrains?
The Varrains region is rich in history. Many routes pass by or near significant landmarks. You might encounter impressive châteaux like Château de Saumur or Montsoreau Castle. The area is also known for its unique troglodyte sites, such as the Souzay-Champigny troglodyte site, offering a glimpse into the region's distinctive past.
Are there any scenic viewpoints along the gravel trails in Varrains?
Absolutely. The gravel trails frequently offer stunning views, particularly along the Loire River. Routes like the Le Thoureil Village – View of the Loire loop from Saumur are specifically designed to showcase the picturesque river landscapes and the charming villages nestled along its banks. The vineyard routes also provide expansive, beautiful vistas.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes available from Varrains?
Yes, many of the gravel routes in the Varrains area are designed as loops. For instance, the Loire Riverside Gravel Trail – Saumur Castle loop from Varrains is a popular circular option that takes you through riverside landscapes and past the Château de Saumur.
Is public transport an option for accessing gravel trails around Varrains?
While Varrains itself is a smaller commune, the broader Saumur region, which is a common starting point for many gravel routes, has public transport connections. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules to Saumur, and then plan your route from there, as direct public transport to all trailheads in Varrains might be limited.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking trailheads in Varrains?
Parking is generally available in and around the village of Varrains, particularly near the main square or public facilities. For specific trailheads, it's often possible to find roadside parking in designated areas or in nearby villages that serve as common starting points for routes. Always check local signage for any restrictions.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Varrains?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Varrains, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders frequently praise the beautiful blend of vineyard landscapes and the serene Loire River views. The variety of routes, from easy vineyard paths to more challenging riverside loops, is also a highlight.
Are there any dog-friendly gravel trails in the Varrains area?
Many of the natural gravel paths and riverside trails around Varrains are suitable for cycling with dogs, provided they are well-behaved and kept under control, especially when passing through vineyards or near livestock. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain, and carry enough water for both of you.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in the Varrains region?
The spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months are generally considered the best times for gravel biking in the Varrains region. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with less extreme heat than summer and fewer crowds. The vineyards are also particularly beautiful in spring with new growth or in autumn during harvest season.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the gravel bike routes near Varrains?
While Varrains itself has local amenities, many routes pass through or near charming villages and towns along the Loire. Saumur, in particular, offers numerous cafes, restaurants, and pubs. It's a good idea to plan your route to include stops in these larger settlements for refreshments, or carry your own snacks and drinks for longer stretches.
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