The best traffic-free bike rides around Le Puy-Notre-Dame
4.3
(4)
34
riders
7
rides
Gravel biking around Le Puy-Notre-Dame offers diverse terrain through the heart of the Saumur region. The landscape is characterized by extensive vineyard trails, rolling hills, and the nearby Thouet river. Riders can explore unpaved paths that traverse the region's renowned wine-growing areas, including routes through the vineyards of Concourson-sur-Layon. The area's varied topography, including a tufa mound reaching 106 meters, provides a mix of ascents and descents suitable for gravel cycling.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Le Puy-Notre-Dame
…Last updated: November 4, 2026
9
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
3.0
(1)
4
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4
riders
55.0km
03:32
370m
370m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
2
riders
28.8km
01:45
160m
160m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Ein schlichte und sehr alte Kirche, angeblich einer der Schönsten in ganz Frankreich
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The contemporary art center of national interest, La Chapelle Jeanne d’Arc de Thouars, is today a leading venue for contemporary art in the western region. Along with the Château d’Oiron and the Syndicat Mixte de la Vallée du Thouet, which runs a program of public commissions for contemporary works, the art center's work is carried out in partnership across the entire territory of the Pays Thouarsais community of communes and, more broadly, in the northern part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. Within the region, the art center is a recognized player in the Astre plastic and visual arts network. Developing an artistic project that takes into account its geographical location and its architectural envelope, a neo-Gothic chapel, the art center maintains a privileged relationship with the heritage of Thouars. Guest artists, hosted for residencies or exhibitions, appropriate the chapel space by creating an original work designed for the venue. They also bring their perspective to the city, urban planning, landscape, and rural areas of the Thouars region and the Thouet Valley. Since 1993, nearly a hundred artists have been invited for residencies or exhibition projects. In recent years, the art center has paid particular attention to emerging artists from art schools, particularly those from the regional Le Grand Huit network. In addition to its programming, the art center also engages in outreach activities in the form of off-site exhibitions, workshops, and events (meetings, lectures, and workshops). A mobile device, La Mar(g)elle, was created in 2015 by the artist Marie-Ange Guilleminot to offer interventions in partner locations, particularly within schools and structures in the social and medical sectors. For its educational action, the art center benefits from the action of the municipal art school of Thouars, to which it is connected within the visual arts department of the City of Thouars.
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whatever the angle of view or the time of day, this ancient abbey calls out
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How a small community can be of great value. Know that you can use public toilets here. The local residents ensure cleanliness. Respect this beautiful gesture and leave it tidy.
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Discover our underground world in the heart of the Pays de Loire region and discover the original flavours of a foues meal in a majestic setting. Fouées, also called “fouaces”, these small bread rolls are eaten filled with butter, rillettes, mogettes, cheese or other. Our Troglodyte Fouées restaurant is a wonderful place to discover. A few million years ago, the sea withdrew from the Doué-la-Fontaine region. Shell rock, called “FALUN”, was extracted from the subsoil to build houses. The troglodyte was born and left behind magnificent underground cathedrals. Our rooms, over 12 metres high and carved into the rock, will amaze you. Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday 12:00 - 15:30 / 19:00 - 22:30. Sunday 12:00 - 15:30. Dining in a unique location at democratic prices is highly recommended. Triggered? Click through to https://lescathedralesdelasaulaie.com/
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Collégiale Saint-Denis is an old church, built between approximately 1180 and 1200. The church gradually fell into disrepair over time and various conflicts, especially in the 14th and 16th centuries. The canons did not have enough income to restore the church. The parish of the collegiate church was dissolved in 1806, abandoned, and then used as a quarry for the inhabitants. To prevent its complete destruction, the city of Doué-la-Fontaine bought the dilapidated building, which is why it was classified as a historical monument in 1862
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Place where all your questions can be answered. A good preparation gives your experience added value. Motivated employees are happy to put you on the right track.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Le Puy-Notre-Dame?
There are 6 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails listed in this guide for the Le Puy-Notre-Dame area, offering a variety of distances and difficulties for a peaceful ride.
What is the typical terrain like on these no-traffic gravel routes?
The terrain around Le Puy-Notre-Dame is characterized by its diverse landscapes. You'll primarily encounter paths winding through extensive vineyards, offering a unique cycling experience. The region also features rolling hills, including the tufa mound on which the village sits, and routes along the Thouet river, providing a mix of ascents, descents, and scenic flat sections.
What do other gravel bikers say about the no-traffic trails in Le Puy-Notre-Dame?
The trails in this region are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars from 3 ratings. Riders often praise the quiet, scenic routes through the vineyards and the opportunity to explore the charming local villages without vehicle traffic.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Butte de Pufujuin – Étang de Joreau loop from Montfort is classified as difficult. This route covers over 54 km with more than 355 meters of elevation gain, offering a substantial workout amidst beautiful scenery.
Can I find shorter, easier no-traffic gravel routes suitable for beginners?
While all routes in this guide are rated moderate or difficult, the Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine – Gravel Chemian loop from Doué-la-Fontaine is one of the shorter options at just under 29 km, making it a good choice for those looking for a less strenuous ride. It still offers a moderate challenge with over 160 meters of elevation gain.
What historical sites or natural landmarks can I explore along the no-traffic gravel trails?
Many routes pass by significant landmarks. For instance, the Abbaye d'Asnières – 4 little jumps and off you go... loop from Doué-la-Fontaine takes you near the historic Abbaye d'Asnières. The region is also rich in troglodyte dwellings and medieval villages. You can also find routes that offer views of impressive castles like Montreuil-Bellay Castle and Château de Passavant.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features to look out for?
Absolutely. The routes frequently traverse the picturesque vineyards of the Saumur region, offering panoramic views, especially from higher points like the tufa mound. The Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Natural Park, where Le Puy-Notre-Dame is located, ensures diverse and remarkable landscapes. Keep an eye out for old mills along the Thouet river and the unique geological formations of the Falun tracks.
Are the no-traffic gravel routes in Le Puy-Notre-Dame suitable for families?
While the routes listed are generally moderate to difficult, the lack of traffic makes them safer for families with older children who are comfortable with longer distances and some elevation. For easier family rides, consider the shorter loops, but always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Is there parking available near the starting points of these trails?
Yes, many of the routes start from towns like Doué-la-Fontaine, Concourson-sur-Layon, or Montfort, which typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local maps or komoot route details for specific parking recommendations near your chosen starting point.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Le Puy-Notre-Dame?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for gravel biking in Le Puy-Notre-Dame. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and the vineyards offer beautiful scenery, either with fresh growth or vibrant autumn colors. Summer can be enjoyable, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially in July and August. Winter rides are possible, but trails might be muddier, and daylight hours shorter.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, all the no-traffic gravel routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. Examples include the Saint-Denis Collegiate Church – A bucolic landscape. loop from Doué-la-Fontaine and the Gravel Chemian – Bioparc de Doué-la-Fontaine loop from Concourson-sur-Layon.
Are there places to eat or drink along the no-traffic gravel routes?
The routes often pass through or near charming villages where you can find local cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. The region is also famous for its Saumur AOC wines, and many local winegrowers offer cellar visits and tastings, providing a delightful break during your ride. It's a good idea to pack some snacks and water, especially for longer stretches between villages.
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