The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Émilion
4.6
(264)
1,597
riders
58
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Saint-Émilion traverse a landscape shaped by millennia of viticulture, featuring expansive vineyards and a gently rolling, hilly countryside. The region is characterized by diverse geology, including limestone and clay, which contributes to varied terrain. Cyclists will find routes that follow dedicated greenways, often repurposed from old railway lines, providing car-free and shaded paths. The nearby Dordogne River and several creeks also add to the natural features of the area.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes around Saint-Émilion
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Tour of the Greater Saint-Emilionnais, a 37.8 miles (60.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 41 minutes to complete. This difficult route winds through extensive vineyards and past historic châteaux.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Saint-Émilion Village – Dordogne River loop from Saint-Émilion, a moderate 20.3 miles (32.7 km) path. This route passes through the historic village and alongside the Dordogne River, offering views of the water and surrounding countryside.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Vines – Château Angélus loop from Saint-Laurent-des-Combes, a 14.1 miles (22.7 km) trail leading through vineyards and past notable châteaux, often completed in about 1 hour 23 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Saint-Émilion is defined by extensive vineyards, a hilly countryside, and dedicated greenways. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging routes with greater elevation gain.
- The routes in Saint-Émilion are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 1000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Saint-Émilion's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
4.6
(13)
66
riders
60.8km
03:42
470m
470m
Cycle 37.8 miles through the difficult Vineyards and banks of the Dordogne loop, enjoying vineyard views and historic châteaux.
4.9
(34)
150
riders
32.7km
01:56
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
4.8
(56)
315
riders
95.0km
05:34
530m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(14)
80
riders
21.3km
01:18
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
54
riders
15.6km
00:55
80m
80m
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
Tips from the Community
For centuries, this former "Camp Fortet" (small fortress) has overlooked the historic town of Saint-Émilion, guarding it in times of prosperity and defending it in times of war. Its 20-hectare vineyard is located on the highest slopes to the west of Saint-Émilion. The surrounding walls and the building originate from the distinctive limestone plateau on which they are built. Since the beginning of the classification in 1956, Clos Fourtet has belonged to the elite of Saint-Émilion's Premiers Grands Crus Classés.
1
0
He quickly made a career in politics. At 36, he had already been minister three times in Paris, in January 1912 he became Prime Minister and Foreign Minister for the first time; his policy aimed at close connection with Great Britain, a strengthening of the alliance with Russia and confrontation with Germany.
1
0
The TV series – available only in German – »Schätze der Welt – Erbe der Menschheit« documents in short episodes, each lasting a quarter of an hour, important places that have been honored as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The accompanying text states: "Saint- Emilion is one of the most romantic wine towns in the world. The small town lies on a limestone plateau, framed by vineyards where the grapes for the famous 'grands crus' grow. With this important wine-growing region in southwestern France, UNESCO has also declared wine a World Heritage Site. Rightly so, because Saint- Emilion represents the perfection of wine." Follow this link to the film =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/saint-emilion-frankreich-folge-226/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83Nzg1MTUw
0
0
Another very inviting café right next to the bike path
0
0
It's cool to make one last stop here before heading home.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes can I find in Saint-Émilion?
Saint-Émilion offers a wide selection of over 50 no-traffic touring cycling routes. These routes traverse the region's picturesque vineyards and historic landscapes, providing options for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Saint-Émilion?
The routes in Saint-Émilion generally feature a gently rolling, hilly countryside, winding through expansive vineyards and past historic villages. You'll find a good mix of routes: 25 are easy, 22 are moderate, and 7 are difficult, ensuring options for all experience levels. The geology includes diverse sands, clay, and limestone, contributing to varied cycling experiences.
What historical sites or natural features can I see along these routes?
Many routes offer views of the region's rich heritage and natural beauty. You can cycle past the historic Saint-Émilion Village, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its Romanesque churches. Other notable attractions include the Cordeliers' Cloister and various châteaux. The nearby Dordogne River and several creeks also add to the natural charm.
Are there any particularly scenic routes that highlight the vineyards?
Absolutely. The region is famous for its vineyards. A great option is the Vines – Château Angélus loop from Saint-Laurent-des-Combes, a moderate 22.7 km route that immerses you in the 'sea of vines' and offers views of renowned wineries like Château Angélus.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Saint-Émilion?
The best time to cycle in Saint-Émilion is typically during spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant, and the vineyards are either bursting with new growth or displaying beautiful autumnal colors. Summer can be quite warm, while winter can be cooler and wetter.
Are there any long-distance no-traffic touring routes available?
Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Tour of the Greater Saint-Emilionnais is a challenging 60.75 km route that allows you to explore a significant portion of the region's landscapes and villages without traffic.
Can I find circular no-traffic routes, or are they mostly point-to-point?
Many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes in Saint-Émilion are circular, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. For example, the Saint-Émilion Village – Dordogne River loop from Saint-Émilion is a moderate 32.7 km circular route that offers diverse scenery.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Saint-Émilion?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 188 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peacefulness of cycling through the vineyards, the stunning historical backdrop of Saint-Émilion, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable, car-free experience.
Are there any easy routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Winery – Château Angélus loop from IME, an easy 15.5 km route with minimal elevation gain, ideal for a leisurely exploration of the vineyards.
Is it possible to reach Saint-Émilion by public transport with a bicycle?
Saint-Émilion is accessible by train from Bordeaux, and some regional trains allow bicycles. It's advisable to check the specific train operator's policy and any potential restrictions or reservation requirements for bikes before planning your journey.
Where can I find parking if I drive to Saint-Émilion for a bike tour?
Saint-Émilion has several parking areas around the village. For cyclists, it's recommended to look for parking slightly outside the immediate historic center, which can be busy. Many routes start from the village itself or nearby, making it convenient to park and begin your ride.
Most popular routes around Saint-Émilion
Most popular attractions around Saint-Émilion
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
