Fourchaud Castle – Via Allier loop from Varennes-sur-Allier

Bike touring routes & trails

Fourchaud Castle – Via Allier loop from Varennes-sur-Allier

Hard

3.9

(7)

riders

Fourchaud Castle – Via Allier loop from Varennes-sur-Allier

09:06

137km

820m

Cycling

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 25, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment that goes up or down a series of steps

You may need to carry your bike.

After 137 km for 42 m

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

35.9 km

View of the Allier River and Moulins from Les Durantats

Highlight • Viewpoint

Not far from here, in Nevers, is where the Allier River ends its course in the Loire. The view from here is picturesque. Take the time to take some photos. From here, you have a beautiful view of Moulins.

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37.1 km

L'Allier

Lake

41.7 km

Les Beurres

Forest

44.1 km

The Via Allier in the Moladier Forest

Highlight • Other

Many animals find refuge in this imposing oak grove, formerly owned by the Dukes of Bourbon. It's a very pleasant cycle along this shaded road.

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57.1 km

Fourchaud Castle

Highlight • Castle

The name Fourchaud seems to come from “Fourche”, as the Gallo-Roman road branched off there, coming from Bourges and leading either to Lyon or Clermont-Ferrand.

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80.0 km

Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule

Highlight • Other

The Sainte-Croix Church has a magnificent wooden ceiling in the nave and colorfully painted Gothic columns!

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97.6 km

Via Allier

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

Section of the Via Allier, on the banks of the river of the same name between Billy and Vichy. Don't forget to fill your water bottles at the Halles des …

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101 km

Saint-Germain-des-Fossés leisure park

Highlight • Other

A leisure and nature center in the middle of the Jalicot lakes, dedicated to the practice of water activities (kayaking, pedal boats, water cycling, etc.), fishing and hiking. Open between …

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111 km

Vichy Springs Park

Highlight • Other

The promenade in the Parc des Sources is covered, providing protection from rain and sun.

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126 km

Forteresse de Billy

Highlight • Castle

This high place in Bourbon history is built in the center of the village on a circular mound. Listed as a historic monument, the fortress can be visited all year round.

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137 km

End point

Train Station

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types