Arcy-sur-Cure (Short)

Distance: 66.72 km

Main Steps

• Asquin with a view of Vézelay
• Nivernais Canal
• Village of Mailly-le-Château

Elevation gain

More information about cycling around Asquins, Vézelay, the Canal du Nivernais and Mailly-le-Château

Asquins & Vézelay

Asquins is a small village located just at the foot of Vézelay, in the Yonne. It is often visited by pilgrims and hikers because it is located on one of the routes of the Way of St. James (Vézelay route).

The hill of Vézelay, with its Romanesque basilica of Sainte-Madeleine (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), dominates the entire region: from the heights you can have panoramic views of the valleys and the surrounding countryside, including towards Asquins.

It is a perfect place for walks, hikes and wide views, especially along marked trails (GR®654).

Nivernais Canal by bike

The Canal du Nivernais is one of the most beautiful cycling routes in Burgundy. It runs alongside a historic canal (former towpath) with a very gentle profile, making it ideal for cycle touring: wide, often flat, and safe, far from road traffic.

Popular cycling routes

Along the canal: From Mailly-le-Château towards Auxerre or towards Clamecy, passing through small ports, locks and bucolic villages; perfect for a family outing or a longer trip.

Clamecy – Vézelay – Clamecy circuit: a cycle touring loop (approximately 60–64 km) which follows the canal then climbs towards Vézelay for a beautiful view of the basilica and the hills of the Morvan.

This route is difficult with climbs (especially towards Vézelay) but offers superb scenery, from the rocks of Basseville to Vézelay.

The canal is also a superb option for those who want to enjoy nature, the forest, the meadows and the peace and quiet of the countryside.

Mailly-le-Château

Located between the canal, the Yonne river and limestone cliffs, Mailly-le-Château is another ideal village for cycling.

The V51 cycle route “Tour de Bourgogne” / via the Nivernais canal passes through here, with marked trails for cyclists.

Practical advice

The canal offers little elevation change, lots of nature and is very pleasant for touring or electric cycling.

The climb to Vézelay is quite steep if you come from the canal or Asquins, but the view and the site are really worth the effort.