The best road cycling routes around Aube

Aube offers a diverse selection of 68 road cycling routes. These include 14 easy routes, 52 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.

The Aube region is characterized by generally gentle plains and rolling hills, making it accessible for many cyclists. Routes often wind along the shores of the Great Lakes of Champagne and through the vast Forêt d'Orient Regional Natural Park, offering a mix of paved surfaces, dikes, and forest tracks. While most rides are comfortable, some routes do feature more significant elevation gains for those seeking a challenge.

Yes, Aube is well-suited for family cycling, particularly around the Great Lakes of Champagne. The region features numerous 'greenways' (Voies Vertes) and dedicated cycling paths that are car-free and safe. The 'Lakes Cycle Path' (Vélovoie des Lacs) offers circuits like the 34.0km loop from Courteranges, which are ideal for families. The 42 km 'Seine and Aube Great Lakes Greenway' also provides superb views on a fully tarmacked path.

Cyclists in Aube can enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Great Lakes of Champagne—Lac d'Orient, Lac du Temple, and Lac Amance. The Forêt Domaniale d'Evroult Notre Dame within the Forêt d'Orient Regional Natural Park offers beautiful forest scenery. You might also encounter historical sites like the Abbaye de Saint-Evroult or the unique Sollerot lighthouse, depending on your chosen route.

Aube is enjoyable for road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with autumn providing vibrant foliage in the forests. Summer is also popular, especially for combining cycling with water activities at the lakes. The gentle topography generally makes it accessible across seasons, though checking local weather conditions is always advisable.

For experienced riders seeking longer distances and more elevation, Aube offers routes like the Abbaye de Saint-Evroult – Donjon de Chambois loop from L'Aigle. This challenging 103.3 km trail features significant elevation gain and takes approximately 4 hours 33 minutes to complete, providing a substantial ride through varied terrain.

Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Aube are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Circuit in Aigle, a 46 km loop, and the Conturbie Pond – Soligny-la-Trappe Abbey loop from Rai, which is 55.6 km. These circular routes make planning your ride convenient.

The road cycling routes in Aube are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, the well-maintained greenways, and the opportunity to combine cycling with exploring charming towns and natural parks.

Absolutely. The Great Lakes of Champagne are hubs for various water sports like swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it easy to transition from a ride to a refreshing dip. The Forêt d'Orient Regional Natural Park is also excellent for bird watching. Additionally, you can explore charming towns like Troyes with its medieval center or visit vineyards in areas like the Sarce valley for wine getaways.

For an easy and relaxed ride, consider the numerous greenways and dedicated cycle paths around the Great Lakes. These routes are generally flat and car-free. The 45 km greenway along the Haute-Seine canal to the north of the department offers a fully tarmacked towpath, perfect for a leisurely pace and enjoying the scenery.

Yes, the Château de Gacé – Abbaye de Saint-Evroult loop from L'Aigle is a popular choice for a balanced ride. This moderate 76.2 km path allows you to experience the region's characteristic blend of forests, open spaces, and gentle hills, offering a rewarding journey without extreme difficulty.

Parking is generally available at key access points for many routes, especially around the Great Lakes and in towns that serve as starting points, such as Troyes or Mesnil-Saint-Père. For specific routes, it's advisable to check the route details on komoot for suggested parking locations near the trailhead.