3.8
(5)
25
riders
6
rides
Gravel biking around Sainte-Marie-Du-Lac-Nuisement offers diverse terrain centered around Lac du Der-Chantecoq, France's largest artificial lake. The region features expansive water bodies, dense forests, and picturesque agricultural land, providing varied experiences. Riders can explore lakeside paths, shaded woodlands of the Der State Forest, and the farmlands of the Champagne Bocage. The Blaise Valley also offers routes along the Blaise river.
Last updated: November 4, 2026
5
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5
riders
28.2km
01:41
110m
110m
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.

4
riders
34.7km
02:05
110m
110m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(2)
3
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4
riders
20.7km
01:16
80m
80m
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
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MTB or gravel are perfectly fine
0
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At the Camping de la Foret there is a beautiful beach at the beginning of the Larzicourt peninsula.
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Well-developed tourist office, with ample parking, catering and sanitary facilities
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The lake's water level is at its highest at the end of June, and at its lowest at the end of October - at that time, a large part of the lake is flooded, and the remains of the stumps of the former trees can still be seen.
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View of the lake and the only kind bird world
3
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Great place with almost everything your heart desires 👍
2
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Wonderful to walk around the lake, to swim but above all to watch the birds 👀
1
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Now at the beginning of October it is simply beautiful 🤩
1
0
There are currently 9 gravel bike trails documented around Sainte-Marie-Du-Lac-Nuisement on komoot, offering a range of experiences from moderate loops to more challenging long-distance routes.
The region offers a diverse mix of terrain, from smooth lakeside paths around Lac du Der to shaded forest trails in the Der State Forest, and agricultural tracks through the Champagne bocage. You'll find routes ranging from moderate, like the Footbridge over Lac du Der – Port of Giffaumont-Champaubert loop from Giffaumont-Champaubert, to more challenging options with varied elevation, such as the Gravel du Lac – Eglise Saint-Nicolas Outines loop from Port de Chantecoq.
Yes, the extensive network of paths around Lac du Der includes many sections suitable for families. The 36 km bike ride around Lac du Der is particularly popular and accessible for all levels. Routes like the Lake Der-Chantecoq – Campsite beach loop from Drosnay offer moderate distances and relatively flat terrain, making them enjoyable for a family outing.
Many routes offer stunning views of Lac du Der-Chantecoq, France's largest artificial lake. You can also explore the ancient oak trees of the Der State Forest and the picturesque farmlands of the Champagne bocage. Keep an eye out for birdwatching observatories, as Lac du Der is an important ornithological site. The Port of Giffaumont-Champaubert is a central point for aquatic activities and often incorporated into routes.
Absolutely. The region is known for its expansive views over Lac du Der. Many trails, including the popular View of Lac du Der – Lake Der-Chantecoq loop from Braucourt, offer extensive lake vistas. You'll also find specific viewpoints like View of Lac du Der marked around the lake, perfect for a scenic break.
The region is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially during bird migration season at Lac du Der. Summer is also popular, with shaded forest trails providing relief from the heat. Even in winter, the trails can be ridden, though conditions may vary with weather.
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Sainte-Marie-Du-Lac-Nuisement are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Lac du Der – Lake Der-Chantecoq loop from Moëslains, which offers a longer, more challenging circular experience.
Parking is generally available at various points around Lac du Der and in the villages surrounding Sainte-Marie-Du-Lac-Nuisement. Popular starting points like the Port of Giffaumont-Champaubert or areas near the lake's beaches often have designated parking facilities for visitors.
The gravel biking routes in Sainte-Marie-Du-Lac-Nuisement are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the serene lakeside paths to the peaceful forest sections, and the well-maintained trails that cater to various skill levels.
The area around Lac du Der-Chantecoq, particularly at the Port of Giffaumont-Champaubert and in the charming villages, offers various options for cafes, restaurants, and accommodation. You'll find places to refuel and relax, especially along the more frequented lakeside paths.
While public transport options directly to trailheads might be limited, the region is accessible by train to nearby towns like Saint-Dizier or Vitry-le-François, from where local buses or taxis can connect you to the Lac du Der area. However, having a car offers the most flexibility for exploring the various starting points of the gravel routes.


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