The best traffic-free bike rides around Auxy

There are 12 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Auxy listed in this guide. These routes offer a mix of moderate and difficult terrain, perfect for exploring the region's diverse landscapes away from vehicle traffic.

The terrain around Auxy is quite varied, offering an excellent gravel biking experience. You'll find routes traversing extensive forests, alongside waterways like the Fusain river, and through open agricultural fields and rolling countryside. The nearby Gâtinais Regional Natural Park adds a mix of forests, fields, orchards, and hedgerows, providing diverse surfaces from smooth tracks to more rugged paths suitable for gravel bikes.

While many routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the region generally offers varied terrain. For family-friendly options, look for routes that follow canal towpaths or quieter forest tracks, which tend to be flatter and less technical. Always check the route details for elevation and surface type to ensure it suits your family's skill level.

Many natural areas and trails around Auxy, especially within the Gâtinais Regional Natural Park and local forests, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash, especially in protected areas, near livestock, or on shared paths. Always check local regulations for specific trails or parks before you go.

Several routes offer opportunities to see historical sites and natural beauty. For example, the View of Autun – The Couhard Pyramid loop from Autun passes by The Couhard Pyramid. Another route, View of Autun – Saint-Lazare Cathedral loop from La Grande Montée, offers views of the impressive Cathedral of Autun. You can also explore the area around Château de Sully on the Château de Sully loop from La Grande Montée.

Spring and autumn are generally the best seasons for gravel biking around Auxy. The weather is typically mild, and the natural landscapes are particularly beautiful, with blooming flowers in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can be pleasant, but be prepared for warmer temperatures, especially in open fields. Winter rides are possible, but some unpaved sections might be muddy or icy.

While this guide focuses on routes around Auxy, the broader Loiret department offers extensive cycling networks. The 'Loire à Vélo' route, for instance, provides 155 km of paths within Loiret, often running along quiet roads and unpaved sections suitable for gravel bikes. These can be linked to create longer adventures. The View of Autun – Saint-Lazare Cathedral loop from La Grande Montée is one of the longer routes in this guide, covering over 52 km.

Parking availability varies by starting point. For routes originating in or near villages like Auxy, you can often find public parking areas. When planning your ride, check the route details on komoot for suggested starting points, which often include parking information. For routes starting from more remote locations, roadside parking might be an option, but always ensure you are not obstructing access or private property.

The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience around Auxy, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Riders often praise the tranquility of the no-traffic routes, the diverse landscapes ranging from forests to open fields, and the opportunity to discover charming villages and historical landmarks away from busy roads.

Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in this guide are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Autun – The Couhard Pyramid loop from Autun and the Château de Sully loop from La Grande Montée. These loops are convenient for day trips, as they bring you back to your starting location without needing additional transport.

The trails around Auxy offer a range of difficulties. This guide includes 4 moderate routes and 8 difficult routes. The difficult routes often feature significant elevation gains, such as the View of Autun – Saint-Lazare Cathedral loop from La Grande Montée with over 930 meters of ascent, and may include more technical unpaved sections. Moderate routes will still provide a good workout but with less demanding climbs.