The best cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges
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Touring cycling around Lac des Vieilles Forges features a diverse landscape centered around a 150-hectare reservoir and surrounded by a 1,000-hectare forest. The region is characterized by varied terrain, including paved surfaces and some unpaved segments, with routes offering moderate to challenging elevation gains. This area in the Ardennes provides a network of cycling routes suitable for exploring its natural features.
Best touring cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Les Vieilles Forges, a 13.8 miles (22.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour 25 minutes to complete. This moderate route encircles the lake, offering views of the water and surrounding forest.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lac des Vieilles Forges – The Trans-Ardennes Greenway loop from Lac des Vieilles Forges, a difficult 29.1 miles (46.8 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gain and connects to the Trans-Ardennes Greenway.
- Local touring cyclists also love the View of Monthermé – Railway bridge over the Meuse loop from Club de Voile des Vieilles Forges et de Charleville-Mézières, a 30.0 miles (48.2 km) trail leading through forested areas and offering views of the Meuse, often completed in about 3 hours 3 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Lac des Vieilles Forges is defined by a large lake, extensive forests, and varied elevation profiles. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate loops to more challenging rides with significant climbs.
- The routes in Lac des Vieilles Forges are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 8,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Lac des Vieilles Forges's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.8
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3.3
(3)
16
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
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Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Great place with a new campsite and pool, magnificent👌👍 and around the lake. You can go hiking and mountain biking.👌🚵🥾
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Small wooden cabin on the edge of the old forge lake, ideal for picnicking, bivouacking, sheltering from bad weather or just relaxing
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The canal leads through a tunnel and with it the cycle path.
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In a bucolic setting, from the banks of the Meuse Canal, you can enjoy a clear view of the village of Château-Regnault-Bogny. The building facades are a reminder that the region was once marked by industrial settlements.
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Meuse Cycle Route: Slow Travel in the French Ardennes In the Meuse Valley, you can cycle along a former towpath along the banks of the river. This beautiful Voie Verte Trans-Ardennes is part of the international Meuse Cycle Route, which crosses the Netherlands, Belgium and France.
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In Bogny-sur-Meuse, nature has created four hills that resemble the four legendary horsemen who roam here forever and ever.
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Monthermé (The Devil's Castle and the 'Roche à Sept Heures')
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The most beautiful part of the Meuse in the French Ardennes can undoubtedly be found in Monthermé. This authentic region, which balances on the border between two countries, is the place par excellence of the legend of the Four Sons of Aymon.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Lac des Vieilles Forges?
There are over 100 touring cycling routes in the Lac des Vieilles Forges area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain should I expect on touring cycling routes in Lac des Vieilles Forges?
The routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges feature varied terrain, including both paved surfaces and some unpaved segments. While many are accessible, some sections may require good to very good fitness levels, especially those with significant elevation changes.
Are there any easy or family-friendly touring cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges?
Yes, there are 22 easy touring cycling routes available. A notable option is the Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Les Vieilles Forges, a moderate 22.2 km route that encircles the lake, offering scenic views and a relatively accessible ride for families.
What are some challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the area offers 42 difficult routes. Consider the Lac des Vieilles Forges – The Trans-Ardennes Greenway loop from Lac des Vieilles Forges, a demanding 46.8 km path with significant elevation gain, or the Kiosk by the lake – Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Club de Voile des Vieilles Forges et de Charleville-Mézières, which covers 38.3 km with over 620m of ascent.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer views of the 150-hectare Lac des Vieilles Forges itself and traverse the surrounding 1,000-hectare forest. You might also encounter views of the Meuse river, as seen on the View of Monthermé – Railway bridge over the Meuse loop from Club de Voile des Vieilles Forges et de Charleville-Mézières. The region is known for its striking natural beauty.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges are designed as loops. Examples include the Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Les Vieilles Forges and the Maison Espagnole – Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Club de Voile des Vieilles Forges et de Charleville-Mézières, which offers a 30.2 km ride through varied terrain.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Lac des Vieilles Forges?
The touring cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 400 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the beauty of the lake and forest, and the variety of routes available for different skill levels.
When is the best time of year for touring cycling in Lac des Vieilles Forges?
The region's beauty transforms with the seasons, making it enjoyable year-round. It's described as 'sublime in the winter mist, colorful in the fall, invigorating in the spring and a veritable seaside resort in the summer.' Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer allows for combining cycling with water activities on the lake.
Are there places to eat or stay near the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the area around Lac des Vieilles Forges is well-equipped with amenities. You'll find cafes, pubs, and accommodation options, particularly near the lake and in nearby villages, making it convenient for breaks and overnight stays during your cycling tour.
Is public transport available to access the cycling routes?
While specific public transport links directly to all trailheads might be limited, the Lac des Vieilles Forges area is generally accessible within the Ardennes region. For detailed information on public transport options to reach the starting points of routes, it's advisable to check local transport schedules.
Are dogs allowed on the touring cycling routes?
The extensive forest and natural areas around Lac des Vieilles Forges are generally welcoming to dogs. However, specific rules may apply in certain protected zones or leisure parks. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash and ensure they do not disturb wildlife or other visitors.
Are there any specific viewpoints along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes offer picturesque viewpoints, especially those that climb higher into the surrounding hills or follow the lake's shoreline. The View of Monthermé – Railway bridge over the Meuse loop, for instance, is specifically named for its scenic vistas, including views of the Meuse river.
Most popular routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges
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