The best traffic-free bike rides around Lyons-La-Forêt
4.5
(2)
17
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Lyons-La-Forêt offers access to the expansive Forest of Lyons, one of Europe's largest beech forests, characterized by its tall, straight tree trunks and gentle topography. The region features an extensive network of paths and roads, making it suitable for no traffic gravel bike trails. These routes traverse dense woodlands, providing shaded and scenic experiences with minimal elevation changes. The area's natural features and well-maintained forest paths create an ideal environment for varied gravel cycling.
Best no traffic…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
4.0
(1)
5
riders
23.5km
01:43
260m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
47.6km
03:21
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
2
riders
38.8km
02:58
410m
410m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
38.8km
02:46
440m
440m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
18.1km
01:10
160m
170m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Other adventures around Lyons-La-Forêt
Tips from the Community
a small flea market but with lots of items
0
0
Very nice park with informative exhibitions and a restaurant that makes excellent Quiche Lorraine, with very friendly service.
0
0
"God loves every soul with an undying love. He approaches each one with repeated, unspeakably patient offers of redemption. Even a small sign of love is enough for him to forgive and redeem. Our dear departed ones lacked a life preserver for the body; but the spiritual life preserver was not lacking, the breath of God in which the soul can clothe itself in a tiny moment, much more quickly than the body could." (Text by Albino Luciani / Pope John Paul I)
0
0
This forest area is surely part of the Lyons State Forest.
0
0
I thought that the ruins were freely accessible. They are not, but are cordoned off. Tour costs €8.50 from 1.30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
0
0
Right next to the lobby there is a bakery. They are used to welcoming cyclists. Everything is homemade, they are very nice. Table and chairs outside sheltered for eating. I've been there twice, never disappointed.
0
0
The Château de Vascoeuil is a historic monument and regional center for art and culture. You can admire the castle's 14th and 16th-century architecture, the 12th-century octagonal tower, and the dovecote, which is protected as a historic monument. You can also explore the park and gardens, where you'll find more than 50 original sculptures by famous artists such as Braque, Cocteau, Dali, and Volti. And if you're a history buff, you can discover the Jules Michelet Museum, dedicated to the famous 19th-century French historian who lived and wrote here. The Château de Vascoeuil is open from April to November and offers guided tours and special events throughout the year.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free gravel bike trails are available around Lyons-la-Forêt?
There are 5 dedicated traffic-free gravel bike trails listed in this guide, offering a range of distances and difficulties. These routes primarily traverse the expansive Forest of Lyons, ensuring a peaceful riding experience away from cars.
What is the terrain like for gravel biking in the Forest of Lyons?
The terrain in the Forest of Lyons is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, making it highly accessible. You'll find hundreds of kilometers of paths and roads, mostly unpaved, winding through dense beech woodlands. The forest's 'cathedral-like' appearance with tall, straight tree trunks provides a unique and scenic backdrop for your ride.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Lyons-la-Forêt?
The Forest of Lyons is beautiful year-round, but autumn is particularly stunning when the leaves turn golden, offering a vibrant and picturesque experience. Spring and summer also provide pleasant conditions with shaded paths, while winter can be serene, though some paths might be muddy or require appropriate gear.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails here?
The komoot community rates the routes around Lyons-la-Forêt highly, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, extensive network of forest paths, the beautiful natural scenery, and the opportunity to explore one of France's largest beech forests away from traffic.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly gravel routes without traffic?
While all routes in this guide are traffic-free, some are more challenging. For a moderate, yet accessible ride, consider the La Place de la Halle – Lyons-la-Forêt loop from Lyons-la-Forêt, which covers 23.5 km with manageable elevation, perfect for those looking for a relaxed forest experience.
Are there longer, more challenging traffic-free gravel routes?
Yes, for a more demanding ride, the Lyons-la-Forêt – Vascoeuil Castle loop from Vascœuil is a difficult 47.6 km route with nearly 500 meters of elevation gain. It offers a great workout while still enjoying the peaceful, car-free environment of the forest and surrounding areas.
Are the traffic-free gravel trails around Lyons-la-Forêt suitable for families?
The gentle topography and extensive network of quiet forest paths make many areas suitable for families. While specific 'easy' routes are not listed in this guide, the generally flat nature of the Forest of Lyons means that routes like the Gravel loop from Bézancourt (18 km, moderate) can be enjoyed by families with some cycling experience, especially with electric bike rentals available in Lyons-la-Forêt.
What interesting sights can I see along the traffic-free gravel bike trails?
Beyond the stunning beech forest itself, you can explore charming historical elements. The Vascoeuil Castle is a notable attraction accessible on routes like the Lyons-la-Forêt – Vascoeuil Castle loop from Ry. The village of Lyons-la-Forêt itself, with its historic market hall and half-timbered houses, is a highlight often starting point or destination.
Where can I park when accessing the gravel bike trails?
Lyons-la-Forêt village offers various parking options, and there are likely designated forest access points with parking. Given the popularity of the Forest of Lyons for outdoor activities, you'll find convenient spots to leave your vehicle before heading out on the trails.
Are there circular gravel bike routes available?
Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. For example, the Carrefour – Lyons-la-Forêt loop from Lyons-la-Forêt is a 38.7 km circular route that takes you deep into the forest.
Are there places to eat or drink near the trails?
The charming village of Lyons-la-Forêt, often serving as a starting or ending point for rides, offers several cafes and pubs where you can refuel and relax after your gravel biking adventure. Its historic market hall is also a great spot to experience local life.
What should I bring for gravel biking in Lyons-la-Forêt, especially in autumn?
For autumn rides, layers are key due to changing temperatures. Bring waterproof and windproof outer layers, as well as gloves and a hat. Always carry water, snacks, a repair kit, and a fully charged phone. Given the extensive forest, a reliable navigation device or app like komoot is highly recommended to stay on track.
Most popular routes around Lyons-La-Forêt
Most popular attractions around Lyons-La-Forêt
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.
