Do you want to enjoy a bucolic ride on a sunny day or warm afternoon, while staying on clean and safe roads? The cycle route built along the Canal des Vosges has been categorised as mixed-use trail since 2007 and will meet your expectations, especially if you wish to cross our hilly region without any great physical effort.
Originally, this mixed-use trail was not intended for cyclists. It was built as a tow path for the agents of the French Waterway Organisation (Voies Navigable de France VNP). But attracted by the beautiful landscapes which it crosses, the majority of the cyclists took it anyway. Today, it is regularly maintained and remains in good condition. It is mainly used by cyclists, walkers and anglers. Vehicles run here exceptionally for the maintenance of banks and locks.
The cycle route invites you to roam the 73 kilometres of paths which cross the Vosges from north to south, between the Luxembourg and Lyon. It offers great views of different landscapes like forests, fields and lakes, but it also gives cyclists the opportunity to discover beautiful historical monuments of our region. The cycle route is perfectly maintained, it feels stable and smooth under wheels. It is suitable for all cyclists and accessible to families, including the youngest, who will be completely safe.
Why don't you take the opportunity to enjoy a good picnic, thanks to the facilities on the canal banks? You can also take the time to visit the nearby tourist sites such as the Forts of Uxegney, the fortress of Châtel-sur-Moselle, Lake Bouzey, or the Cité de l'Image in Épinal, opposite the Port. Along the way, many locks give you the possibility of leaving the trail to discover the nearby villages.
It is now obvious to you that you can enjoy a ride along the Canal which will take you in the most beautiful places of our region without tiring yourself: a well appreciated, pleasant change of scenery with your family or friends!
