The Lyons forest, one of the largest beech forests in France, covers over 10,000 hectares in the Eure département. A hilly massif, unusual for Normandy, that offers pleasant mountain biking terrain around the picturesque village of Lyons-la-Forêt.
Hilly terrain under the beech canopy
From Lyons-la-Forêt, a half-timbered village listed among France’s “most beautiful villages”, the network of forest tracks allows for a route of around 30 km and 350 m of cumulative climbing. The relief, more pronounced than the average Norman forest, alternates short climbs and fast descents under a particularly dense beech canopy.
Getting the ride right
The clay soil in places can turn slick after heavy rain, common in Normandy — a mudguard is worth having outside summer. Trail markings are generally good, making it easy to piece together your own route.
When to go
March to November, avoiding the prolonged rainy spells of the Norman winter that leave some trails muddy and slick.
Good to know
Lyons-la-Forêt has a choice of charming places to stay well suited to a trip combining mountain biking and local heritage, with convenient access to the Andelle valley to extend the ride.
