9 Great Paris Region Routes
- Anna and Aaron
- Dec 15, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 28
In the world of cycling, finding the right route can make all the difference. I've compiled a list of some of my favorite rides in the region, organized by distance to accommodate various skill levels. These routes are often my go-to choices and frequently appear in group rides as well.
60km or less
Short routes can be difficult to justify, especially when it comes to getting kitted up and dealing with the commute in and out of the city. However, here are a few options that I think are worth the effort.
Classic Marne Loop
If you have less than 2hrs, a classic Marne loop is the best option. This can be expanded in 2 ways, the first is by adding the bonus climb in the route below. The second way is by adding as many laps at the polygon as you want. For being in the city area the whole time, it is a surprisingly nice route, especially on Sundays when there are no cars allowed.
Bievres
The Bievres loop takes a direct route through the 15th arr. of Paris into the nearby forest. This route is designed for efficiency but then maximizes forest time, as we like to say. It's a great choice for a quick 2hr getaway.
Bievres with Bonus Climb
Additional modifications can be made to the Bievres route to increase the distance and include a lovely little climb. This route also changes the exit from the city by following the Seine. The bonus climb is quite scenic and takes you up to a charming village. From there, it's the same as the other Bievres route. This has become my preferred choice for shorter rides.
Around 80km
While there are options in every direction, I believe that for rides under 100 km, heading southwest toward Chevreuse is the best choice.
17 tournants
17 turns is one of my favorite climbs in the region. It is not particularly difficult, but the winding road and forest surroundings are beautiful. This route takes a fairly direct path in and out to keep the distance down but also gives alternative to some of the other routes. Take note that this route goes through the tunnel just past point Mirabeu, a section I have been avoiding recently due to it being busy, but it's the most efficient way when you are going up Sevres.
Gif > Chateaufort
This route has a few variations on the way in and out of the city to keep things interesting. It features "La Muerte" climb which aptly translates to death. It then has an alternative route through Meudon that is a bit off the beaten path to keep things fresh. After dropping in to the Chevreuse valley and climbing out up Chateaufort, you will head to Versailles and St. Cloud. While the return is not the most direct, it's a great option to either change things up or to show new people more of the city.
L'Isle-Adam
Despite saying that I think southwest is the best option, I want to give at least one option that goes the opposite direction. Going north has some nice roads and forests once you are out of the city, but depending on where you are leaving from, it can be a bit of a slog to get out there. There is a bonus climb added to go up to the tomb of Vincent van Gogh ( Its not much but still cool to see the history)
100k+
If you are looking to go over 100km, there are a lot of options, especially point to point with a train to or from. But in these next few routes, I actually focus on Paris to Paris round trip routes.
Vaux de Cernay
If I am doing 100km+ this is the first route that comes to mind. It features my favorite road in the region, which is very secluded with rolling hills and beautiful forest all around. The route is similar to a Chevreuse > 17 turn route, but it has the addition of going by Vaux de Cernay. I have not been or stayed at the hotel Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, but it looks amazing from what I have seen online. Regardless, the road it is on is the main attraction for me. I love the variation of trees, ferns and rocks in the area which were particularly stunning one foggy morning. There are plenty of variations you could do with this route but just make sure to check out Rue des Vaux de Cernay (either direction is great)
Le Barn loop
Le Barn deserves a write up on its own, but in the meantime here is a fantastic round trip route. A little before half way, you will come to Le Barn Hotel where you can stop in for the cyclist special which is 7 euros for a coffee and an assortment of treats to refuel. If you wanted a bit longer (~14km), you could add the nice stretch of road from the Vaux de Cerney route above. This route is great anytime of year, but especially nice in the fall with changing leaf color and a warm fireplace.
Fairytale Route
Some friends created and named this route years ago and it has stuck, Fairytale route is a nice change from Chevreuse. It has quite a few zig zags through neighborhoods as you get out of the city and then opens up to some expansive farmland. I would check the wind speed and direction before doing this one, but its nice to get a change of scenery and it still has a decent amount of climbing for the Paris region.
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