The best traffic-free bike rides around Saint-Longis

There are 7 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Saint-Longis, offering a variety of experiences. Most of these routes are rated as difficult, with two moderate options for those seeking a slightly less challenging ride.

While many routes in the area are rated difficult, the Château de Bellerive – Saosnois Greenway loop from Aillières-Beauvoir is a moderate option, covering 23 km. It offers a good introduction to gravel biking on traffic-free paths, making it more suitable for families or beginners looking for a less strenuous ride.

The trails around Saint-Longis traverse a charming mosaic of valleys, hills, and extensive forests like the Forêt de Perseigne and Forêt d'Écouves. You'll experience a mix of paved surfaces, quiet country roads, and unpaved forest trails, often with diverse tree species and picturesque clearings. The region is part of the Perche Natural Regional Park, known for its scenic beauty.

Yes, all the featured no-traffic gravel bike routes around Saint-Longis are circular. For example, you can explore the Perseigne Viewpoint – Vallée d'Enfer loop from Saint-Longis, which offers a challenging 54 km ride through varied terrain.

Many routes offer access to notable points of interest. The Perseigne Viewpoint, a 30-meter high observation tower, is a highlight on several tours, including the Perseigne Viewpoint – Vallée d'Enfer loop from Neufchâtel-en-Saosnois. You might also pass by historic sites like Monthimer Castle or charming settlements such as La Perrière.

The Pays de la Loire region generally offers pleasant conditions for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summer is also great, but be prepared for warmer temperatures. Winter rides are possible, especially on well-maintained gravel paths, but check local weather conditions for potential mud or ice.

Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a significant challenge, the La Perrière – Mortagne-au-Perche loop from La Perrière is a difficult 133 km route with substantial elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Vallée d'Enfer – Perseigne Viewpoint loop from Mamers, covering 44 km with considerable climbing.

Many of the routes start from villages or towns like Saint-Longis, La Perrière, Neufchâtel-en-Saosnois, Aillières-Beauvoir, or Mamers, where public parking is generally available. It's advisable to check specific starting points on the komoot tour pages for detailed parking information.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the immersive forest experiences, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs that offer panoramic views, especially from the Perseigne Viewpoint.

Saint-Longis and the surrounding villages are primarily rural, and direct public transport access to trailheads might be limited. While there are no major train stations directly in Saint-Longis, larger towns in the Sarthe department may offer bus services. Planning your trip with a car is generally recommended for easier access to the various starting points of these gravel routes.

While the routes themselves focus on natural, traffic-free sections, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the larger towns and villages near the starting and ending points, such as Mamers or La Perrière. It's a good idea to plan your stops for refreshments before or after your ride, or carry sufficient supplies for the duration of your tour.