The best traffic-free bike rides around Besançon

Besançon offers a vast network for gravel biking. You can explore over 140 routes that prioritize minimal traffic, providing a serene experience through the region's diverse landscapes.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Besançon feature a varied topography, from the picturesque banks of the Doubs River to the dense Chailluz and Chaux forests. You'll encounter a mix of wide dirt paths, forest singletracks, and gravel roads, with ascents and descents as you navigate the region's seven hills and the foothills of the Jura Mountains.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking around Besançon, with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer can also be excellent, especially on shaded forest trails. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially muddy or icy conditions on some routes.

Yes, there are routes designed for a more relaxed pace. For instance, the Back to sources route offers a moderate challenge over approximately 29 km with manageable elevation, making it a good option for those starting out or looking for a less strenuous ride away from traffic.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like Loue Loue Land provide a significant test of endurance and skill. This route covers over 117 km with more than 1600 meters of elevation gain, traversing rugged terrain and offering an immersive experience in the Jura foothills.

Many routes offer stunning views and pass by significant landmarks. You can often catch glimpses of the UNESCO World Heritage Citadel of Besançon and Fort Bregille. Natural highlights include the dramatic Doubs River Valley, and you might even pass by natural monuments like the Bout du Monde Waterfall or various springs and caves in the wider region.

While many gravel routes involve some elevation, the region offers sections suitable for families, particularly along the Doubs River. Look for routes that utilize greenways or forest paths with gentler gradients. The proximity to lakes like Saint-Point also provides accessible and beautiful circuit options that are generally less strenuous and car-free.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public gravel trails around Besançon, especially in the extensive forest areas like Chailluz and Chaux. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock, and to check local regulations for specific routes or protected areas.

Parking is available at various points around Besançon, particularly at the outskirts of the city or near popular trailheads leading into the forests or along the Doubs River. Many villages along the routes also offer public parking. For specific routes, checking the tour details on komoot often provides information on recommended starting points and parking facilities.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Besançon, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the region's stunning natural beauty, the quiet and varied terrain of the forest paths, and the opportunity to explore historical sites and charming villages away from traffic. The well-maintained gravel tracks and the sense of immersion in nature are often highlighted.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Besançon are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An excellent example is the Just Doubs it route, which is specifically crafted to minimize asphalt riding and maximize the scenic, traffic-free experience along the Doubs River.

Besançon has a public transport network that can help you reach various starting points for gravel trails. The city's train station connects to regional lines, and local buses serve areas surrounding the city. Some routes, particularly those integrated with the EuroVelo 6, are designed with accessibility in mind, allowing for connections via public transport. It's advisable to check specific bus or train routes for bike carriage policies.