The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Touches

There are 16 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Les Touches, offering a variety of distances and difficulties to explore the region's quiet paths and waterways.

The no-traffic gravel trails around Les Touches primarily feature varied terrain, including sections along the Canal de Nantes à Brest and paths near the Erdre river. You'll encounter unpaved tracks, sometimes grassy singletracks, and countryside routes that are perfect for gravel bikes, allowing you to enjoy the natural landscape away from roads.

Yes, there are 5 easy-rated routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These trails typically feature gentler gradients and less technical surfaces, making them accessible for a wider range of cyclists.

Absolutely. Many of the routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the "Lock 11 — La Prée – Port of Blain loop from Écluse de la Rabinière" offers a moderate 43 km circular ride, perfect for exploring the local waterways.

The no-traffic gravel routes often pass by significant natural and historical points of interest. You can expect to see various locks along the Canal de Nantes à Brest, such as Tindière Lock, and explore areas around the Lake Vioreau, including the Vioreau Reservoir Dam. The Feed channel connecting the reservoir to the canal is also a notable feature.

Many of the routes are suitable for families, especially the easier ones that follow canal paths or quiet countryside lanes. These traffic-free environments provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Always check the route's difficulty and distance to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.

Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for these routes, such as Nort-sur-Erdre or Saint-Mars-du-Désert. Look for designated public parking areas near the canal or river access points.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for gravel biking in the Loire-Atlantique region. The weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes are vibrant. Summer can also be pleasant, especially along shaded canal paths, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter rides are possible, but some paths might be muddier.

Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 4 difficult-rated routes. These can be longer, feature more elevation gain, or include more technical sections. An example is the "Sucé sur Erdre bridge and port – Quay at Sucé-sur-Erdre loop from Saint-Mars-du-Désert", which covers over 62 km with significant elevation.

Many routes pass through or near charming villages and towns along the Canal de Nantes à Brest or the Erdre river, such as Nort-sur-Erdre. These locations often have cafes, bakeries, or small restaurants where you can stop for refreshments and refuel during your ride. The Port of Nort-sur-Erdre is a popular spot for a break.

The gravel biking experience around Les Touches is highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the traffic-free paths, the scenic beauty of the canals and rivers, and the varied terrain suitable for gravel bikes.

For a great experience along the canal, consider the "Port of Nort-sur-Erdre – Canal de Nantes à Brest loop from Nort-sur-Erdre". This challenging 48 km route offers extensive views of the canal and its surroundings, providing an immersive gravel biking adventure.