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Gravel rides
France
Pays de la Loire
Châteaubriant-Ancenis

Les Touches

The best traffic-free bike rides around Les Touches

4.6

(30)

182

riders

19

rides

Gravel biking around Les Touches, located in the Loire-Atlantique department of the Pays-de-la-Loire region, offers diverse terrain suitable for mixed-surface cycling. The area is characterized by its proximity to the Canal de Nantes à Brest, which features extensive cycling paths, including unpaved sections and singletracks. Natural features like the Grand Réservoir de Vioreau and its alimentation ditch, the "Petit Canal," provide additional routes with varied surfaces, from simple tracks to grassy paths. This landscape provides opportunities for exploring countryside routes…

Last updated: May 7, 2026

5.0

(6)

47

riders

#1.

Lock 11 — La Prée – Port of Blain loop from Écluse de la Rabinière

43.2km

02:04

60m

60m

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

Hard

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Les Touches

Traffic-free bike rides around Les Touches

Traffic-free bike rides around Les Touches

Tips from the Community

Paolo SRGT
September 12, 2025, Quay at Sucé-sur-Erdre

Even at 6 a.m. super pleasant and very smooth

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After a few kilometers, stopping at this guinguette is a pure pleasure of relaxation

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Very comfortable track to do, the trees provide shade and freshness, freshness also provided (on certain locks) to enjoy a very refreshing drink

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a nice pleasant path

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Very pretty, relaxing. Possibility of refueling by bike.

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Also known as the "basin," the port of Nort-sur-Erdre is a lively, historic neighborhood that's a great place to stop off. At the foot of the Saint-Georges Bridge, which separates the wild Erdre from the navigable Erdre, the marina is now a popular place for walking and fishing. Free Wi-Fi access near the Tourist Office Contact the harbor master's office for an extended stay; the first two nights are free. Open year-round Type of facility: Slipway - River stopover - Pontoon - Marina Payment methods: Bank and postal checks Access location: Nort-sur-Erdre train station: 1 km Languages spoken: French Facilities: Picnic area - Restrooms - Services - Playground

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The construction of Port Mulon Castle dates back to the 19th century. Of its various owners, it primarily preserves the memory of Prosper Coinquet. Born in 1825 in Nantes, Prosper Coinquet was mayor of Nort-sur-Erdre twice, from 1859 to 1874, and again from 1877 to 1892. He was also a general councilor for the Loire-Inférieure department from 1883 to 1887. This lawyer by training was also a great lover of the arts. He was himself a musician and poet. He composed numerous songs and waltzes that enjoyed considerable regional success. He dedicated one of his waltzes, simply titled "Le port Mulon," to his castle. Prosper Coinquet chaired or was a member of several musical and literary societies. It was therefore only natural that he decided to make the château the setting for evenings dedicated to the arts. Readings and concerts were held in the park or in the reception hall. Nantes artists invited to perform came by way of the Erdre River. The setting, its tranquil riverbank, and its magnificent park wooded with rare species, thus retain the imprint of the music that was performed there until 1892. That year, Prosper Coinquet died at home. Since 2006, music has once again resonated in the park's foliage. Indeed, at the end of June, the venue hosts the La Nuit de L'Erdre festival. Today, the Château de Port Mulon and its park are managed by the municipality of Nort-sur-Erdre. A reception hall can be rented from the town hall, whether for private or professional events. You can also take yoga classes at the château. As for the Nantes Atlantique improvisation league, it has made it its headquarters. Finally, since 2017, the place has become a coworking space whose success continues unabated. As for the park, it's a place where, in addition to enjoying its vast spaces and magnificent trees, you can indulge in an orienteering course. Twenty markers are scattered throughout, and by exploring them, you'll learn much more about the treasures it contains. During your stroll, you'll undoubtedly encounter riders who enjoy riding their horses there. And if, at nightfall, you spot the fluttering shadows of numerous bats, don't be surprised. For several years, the castle and grounds have been havens for these nocturnal animals.

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Nestled along the Nantes-Brest Canal, the Écluse de la Tindière lodge welcomes hikers and cycle tourists looking for comfortable overnight stays in a relaxing setting. The rooms offer stunning views of the canal!

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available 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.

What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic gravel trails near Les Touches?

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.

Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel routes?

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.

Can I find circular no-traffic gravel routes in the area?

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.

What natural attractions or landmarks can I see along these routes?

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.

Are the no-traffic gravel trails around Les Touches suitable for families?

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.

Where can I park my car when accessing no-traffic gravel trails near Les Touches?

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.

What is the best time of year to go gravel biking around Les Touches?

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.

Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?

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.

Do any of the no-traffic gravel routes pass by places to stop for refreshments?

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.

How do other cyclists rate the gravel biking experience around Les Touches?

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.

Can you recommend a specific no-traffic gravel route that explores the Canal de Nantes à Brest?

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.

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