The best traffic-free bike rides around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard
4.4
(22)
860
riders
46
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard traverse a landscape characterized by tranquil waterways, rolling hills, and quiet country roads. The region, part of the Côte-d'Or department, features the Canal de Bourgogne with its dedicated Vélo-Route, offering flat sections suitable for road bikes. The broader Auxois region provides varied topography with altitudes ranging from 200 to 650 meters, including wooded areas and agricultural plateaus. This blend of terrain offers diverse cycling experiences away from heavy traffic.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Église Saint-Gengoulf – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard, a 21.8 miles (35.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 29 minutes to complete. This moderate route passes by the historic Château de Courcelles.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Canal de Bourgogne – Montbard bridge loop from Montbard, a moderate 42.9 miles (69.0 km) path. This route follows the Canal de Bourgogne, offering flat sections along reconditioned towpaths.
- Local road cyclists also love the Bridge over the Brenne – Montbard bridge loop from Montbard, a 16.4 miles (26.4 km) trail leading through the local countryside, often completed in about 1 hour 4 minutes.
- Road cycling around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard is defined by tranquil canal paths, rolling hills, and quiet country roads. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy flat rides to more challenging routes with elevation gain.
- The routes in Courcelles-Lès-Montbard are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 20 reviews. More than 800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Courcelles-Lès-Montbard's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
46
riders
35.0km
01:29
140m
140m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
20
riders
69.0km
03:13
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5.0
(1)
20
riders
53.5km
02:26
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
10
riders
104km
05:27
1,490m
1,490m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
8
riders
87.8km
03:47
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard
Tips from the Community
Step into the Middle Ages - another incredible place (incidentally, the film set of the movie “Chocolat” with Johnny Depp)
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In addition to strolling around the village, you can freely visit (and for free) the anise museum, discover the old workshops, the crypt of the abbey, and end up in the shop and buy small anise candies with different flavors.
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Vercingetorix, the great Celtic prince who was tragically defeated by the Romans. The battle site is historically important for France.
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Nearby is Abbaye de Fontanay, which is also worth seeing.
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The Abbey of Fontenay, like all monasteries and places of worship, was, of course, founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding significance, it has also been honored with the title of "World Heritage Site" by UNESCO. The German-language television series "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites around the world in quarter-hour segments. One episode also deals with this abbey, and the website reads: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monastic ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls its followers to return to early Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks establish their first monastery, "Citeaux," after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The order grows rapidly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread throughout France, even to Germany. The Fontenay Abbey is also founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link =>> https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The Abbey of Fontenay was, like all monasteries and places of worship, of course founded or built first and foremost as a place of prayer. Due to its outstanding importance, it has also been "ennobled" by UNESCO with the title of "World Cultural Heritage". The German-language television series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" documents these special sites all over the world in quarter-hour contributions. One episode also deals with this abbey, on the website you can read: * "France at the end of the 11th century. Christianity has prevailed. The noble abbots of the Benedictine monasteries live in prosperity. The monks' ideal of poverty and modesty seems to have been forgotten. A new order is founded in Burgundy. It calls on its followers to return to original Christian ideals: to work and poverty, to humility and seclusion from the world. The monks found their first monastery "Citeaux", after which they later call themselves Cistercians. The religious order grows quickly. The monks clear the forests and regulate the rivers. Their religious houses soon spread across France and into Germany. The Fontenay monastery was founded under them." The film is available in the ARD media library at the following link: => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/fontenay-frankreich-folge-11/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MjQ3MjIw
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The world heritage monastery is worth a visit. However, there is an entrance fee.
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Magnificent stone bridge which spans the Brenne in the center of Montbard. The bridge is paved, and offers you splendid views of both banks and the river below.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard?
There are nearly 50 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard. These routes offer a variety of distances and difficulty levels, ensuring options for different preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic road cycling routes?
The region offers a mix of terrain. You'll find largely flat sections along the Canal de Bourgogne, often on reconditioned towpaths which can be paved or macadam, suitable for road bikes. Further into the Auxois region, routes feature rolling hills, offering more engaging climbs and descents on quiet country roads.
Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are several easy routes. For instance, the Bridge over the Brenne – Montbard bridge loop from Montbard is an easy option, covering about 26 km with minimal elevation gain. Many sections along the Canal de Bourgogne are also flat and beginner-friendly.
What are some popular circular no-traffic road cycling loops in the area?
Many routes are designed as loops. A popular moderate option is the Église Saint-Gengoulf – Château de Courcelles loop from Montbard, which takes you through picturesque countryside and past the historic Château de Courcelles.
What attractions can I see along the no-traffic road cycling routes?
You can combine your ride with visits to significant historical sites. The UNESCO World Heritage site Fontenay Abbey is often included in routes, such as the challenging Pont Pinard – Fontenay Abbey loop from Montbard. You might also pass by Parc Buffon near Montbard, which is 'Accueil Vélo' certified.
Are there any routes that follow the Canal de Bourgogne?
Absolutely. The Canal de Bourgogne is a highlight for no-traffic cycling. The Canal de Bourgogne – Montbard bridge loop from Montbard is a great example, offering a longer ride alongside the tranquil waterway, passing barges and lock houses.
Where can I find parking for these no-traffic road cycling routes?
Montbard, being a central hub, offers convenient parking options for cyclists looking to access routes. Many routes start and end in Montbard, making it a practical base for your cycling adventures.
What is the best time of year for no-traffic road biking in Courcelles-Lès-Montbard?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, especially along the shaded canal paths, but be prepared for warmer weather.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic road biking options?
Yes, the flat and well-maintained sections of the Canal de Bourgogne are particularly suitable for families. These paths provide a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages, away from vehicle traffic.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Courcelles-Lès-Montbard?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet country roads, the picturesque scenery along the Canal de Bourgogne, and the opportunity to combine cycling with visits to historic sites like Fontenay Abbey.
Can I find cafes or restaurants along the no-traffic bike routes?
While many routes traverse rural areas, you'll find cafes and restaurants in the towns and villages along the way, such as Montbard and other smaller settlements near the Canal de Bourgogne. It's always a good idea to check opening times, especially in smaller villages.
Most popular routes around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard
Most popular attractions around Courcelles-Lès-Montbard
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