4.6
(127)
2,990
riders
382
rides
Road cycling in Gâtinais Français features a diverse landscape of dense forests, open agricultural plains, and varied plateaus and valleys. The terrain includes gentle undulations and occasional climbs, with several rivers like the Juine, Essonne, and École adding to the scenic beauty. Sandstone formations are also characteristic, shaping local architecture and providing unique geological points of interest. This regional natural park offers a compelling destination for road cyclists seeking varied scenery and engaging rides.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.5
(4)
50
riders
42.8km
01:45
210m
210m
Enjoy an easy 26.6-mile road cycling route through the Parc Naturel Régional du Gâtinais Français, featuring charming villages and castles.
4.0
(2)
9
riders
35.8km
01:31
210m
220m
This moderate 22.2-mile road cycling loop near Nemours takes you past the historic Basilica Saint Mathurin of Larchant.

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160
riders
73.5km
03:13
550m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(6)
69
riders
42.8km
01:42
210m
210m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
64
riders
87.2km
03:47
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Gravel biking in Gâtinais Français
Ideal for beginners or for your first walks or trips. Very safe route with no elevation changes. Note: if you have a good level, it is very monotonous and repetitive - I do not recommend it.
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Former market square in the heart of Milly-la-Forêt.
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The chapel was built in 1313 by Hugues de Bouville. In the 18th century, it was abandoned. It was finally sold as national property during the Revolution. It was restored in 1861 and 1974. Between 1909 and 1910, it was the object of major pilgrimages in memory of Saint Vincent de Paul.
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superb little chapel decorated by Jean Cocteau where he rests. a commentary said by Jean Marais accompanied the visit. a so-called simple garden adjoins the chapel. there are many medicinal plants found there. entrance price 3 euros
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This was one of the locations used for the filming of the 3 Mousquetaires with Vincent Cassel, François Civil, Romain Dursis & Pio Marmai
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The trail moves on to the main essentials The hall In 1479, by a special grace from Louis The North-South facing Hall, 46 m long, 16 m wide and 13 m high, covers a total surface area of 730 m2. 48 oak pillars, resting on “dice”-cut stone bases, support a chestnut frame typical of Ile-de-France at that time; this frame presents to the north (on the rue Langlois side) a “pavilion” farm. Today, La Halle is still the site of a market on Thursday afternoons. The square, the houses gathered all around, bear witness to the great commercial activity which already reigned in the region 500 years ago. La Halle has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1923. Bonde Castle is located near the town center of Milly-la-Forêt, Built near an artificial island in the l'École river to the west of the Notre-Dame collegiate church, its park is bordered to the west by the course of the river which forms a moat to the north protecting the châtelet. History Built in the 12th century by the lords of Milly, the castle was ruined during the English siege in 1432. At the end of the 15th century around 1475, owned by Admiral Louis Malet de Graville, it was rebuilt and enlarged. What was then the keep became the entrance gatehouse, the drawbridge was replaced by a permanent stone bridge and a gate closed access between the northern defense tower and the governor's house. A square courtyard was surrounded by a wall and had in the center a chapel dedicated to Saint Valentine. The castle was successively the property of Hugues III de Bouville, Olivier V de Clisson, Jean II de Montmorency, Jean-François de Faudoas d'Averton, Marc-Antoine Front de Beaupoil de Saint-Aulaire and Pierre Marie of Lau d’Allemans. In the 19th century, the towers of the chatelet were enhanced with brick battlements and a slender roof. In 1859 the Corne bridge was rebuilt near the castle washhouse which served as a watering trough for the animals. At the end of the 20th century the mills along the river were demolished. In 1964, the Bonde washhouse downstream of the river which was part of the estate was rehabilitated. On December 20, 1972, the castle was partly listed as a historic monument. The park was listed in 1991 for its fences, canals and paths. the house of Jean Cocteau. Entrance to the J. Cocteau house [This 17th century residence, flanked by turrets, was formerly called the Governor's House. It corresponds to an old outbuilding of the castle in front of which the vassals came to pay homage and faith to their lord. Jean Cocteau bought this house with Jean Marais in 1947 and lived there until his death. Notre-Dame de l’Assomption Church Founded in the 11th century, the former chapel of the castle, it was rebuilt around 1485 on the orders of Admiral de Graville in the Gothic style of the 13th and 14th centuries. The bell tower, 57 meters high, dates from the 11th century in its lower part and from the 12th and 13th centuries in its upper part. The arch of the main portal in the primitive Romanesque style comes from an old church in Milly (Saint-Pierre or Saint-Jacques). On the east side of the bell tower - Place Grammont side - the arms of Admiral de Graville are still visible. Many works of sacred art are found inside the church. The church was listed as a Historic Monument in 1926. The dovecote; Located on the old triangular square of the dovecote cul de sac, this old building was part of the Domaine du Moustier, property of Fulbert I, lord of Milly and officer at the court of Dagobert I in the 7th century. Destroyed in 1432 or 1433, the complex included a vast farm. According to a count in 1792 it had around 1200 niches. Only the lords held the right to build these premises designed for breeding. The Moustier de Péronne gate is one of the oldest vestiges of Milly and dates from the 7th century. It provided access to the moustier (monastery in old French) owned by Fulbert I, who obtained the land of Milly from Dagobert I. His son Wulfran was born there around the year 635. Entering religion, he became the apostle of the frieze (Netherlands), then bishop of Sens before retiring to Saint Wandrille where he died in 720.
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The Gâtinais Français offers a diverse landscape for road cycling, characterized by a mix of dense forests, open agricultural plains, and varied plateaus and valleys. You'll encounter gentle undulations and occasional climbs, with several rivers like the Juine, Essonne, and École adding to the scenic beauty. The region is also known for its unique sandstone formations.
There are over 370 road cycling routes in Gâtinais Français, catering to various preferences and skill levels. This includes 122 easy routes, 244 moderate routes, and 13 more challenging options.
Yes, Gâtinais Français offers many easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Gâtinais Park and Châteaux Loop is an easy 26.6-mile (42.8 km) route that takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to complete, passing by notable châteaux. Another easy option is the Route Ronde – Half-timbered House of Arbonne loop from Fontainebleau.
Road cycling routes in Gâtinais Français often pass through charming villages and near historical sites. You can explore castles such as Fleury-en-Bière Castle, Domaine de Courances, and Chamarande Castle and Park. Many villages feature preserved vernacular heritage with sandstone and millstone houses.
The Gâtinais Français is particularly beautiful for cycling in spring when fruit trees are in bloom, offering picturesque scenery of open fields and orchards. The varied landscapes provide both shaded routes through forests and expansive vistas, making it enjoyable across different seasons, though spring and early autumn are often ideal for comfortable temperatures.
Absolutely. The park is famous for its sandstone bedrock, which has created unique geological points of interest like 'chaos rocheux' (rock chaos) and blockfields. You can also find natural monuments such as The Elephant and Rocher de Corne-Biche. The high valley of the Essonne river is also part of the European Natura 2000 classification due to its rich flora and fauna.
Yes, the region is known for its charming villages, many of which offer cafes and local establishments where cyclists can stop for refreshments. The Gâtinais Français also boasts local gastronomic specialties like Milly-la-Forêt peppermint, watercress, and Gâtinais honey, providing delightful culinary experiences during your ride.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. Road cyclists often praise the diverse and picturesque landscapes, the well-maintained routes, and the engaging rides that combine natural beauty with cultural heritage.
Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 13 difficult routes available. A moderate option that covers a significant distance is the Market Hall of Milly-la-Forêt – Milly-la-Forêt loop from Milly-la-Forêt, a 45.7-mile (73.5 km) trail with over 550 meters of elevation gain, often completed in about 3 hours 12 minutes.
While specific parking locations vary by route, many villages and starting points for routes within the Parc Naturel Régional du Gâtinais Français offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the most convenient parking options.
While road cycling routes are generally on paved surfaces, which may not be ideal for dogs to run alongside for long distances, the Gâtinais Français is a natural park. If you plan to bring a dog, ensure they are well-behaved and kept on a leash, especially in populated areas or near wildlife. For off-road or walking trails, specific rules may apply, but for road cycling, it's more about your dog's comfort and safety on paved roads.
Generally, no specific permits are required for road cycling on public roads within the Parc Naturel Régional du Gâtinais Français. However, always respect local regulations, private property, and protected natural areas. For more detailed information about the park, you can visit the Visit Paris Region website.

