Belfort - Lac du Malsaucy Cycle Route

Yes, this route is considered easy and is well-suited for cyclists of any fitness level, including beginners and families. It's a dedicated 'Voie Verte' (greenway), ensuring a safe and pleasant experience away from motorized traffic.

The route features predominantly paved surfaces, including paved sidewalks, smooth concrete, and good asphalt, especially in the latter sections. This makes it comfortable for various types of bicycles. The final three kilometers through a wooded area offer varied terrain with curves and small bumps.

The route offers a diverse landscape. You'll start in Belfort, follow the Savoureuse river, pass through Valdoie, and then transition into charming countryside and wooded areas. Key highlights include the Haute-Saône Canal cycle path, the natural beauty of Lac du Malsaucy, and the Malsaucy cycling link. You'll also see the iconic Lion of Belfort near the start.

The route begins in the heart of Belfort. While specific parking locations aren't detailed, as a popular urban-to-nature route, public parking should be available within Belfort. The trail is well-signed, making access straightforward from various points in the city.

Given its predominantly paved surface and easy difficulty, the route is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring, summer, and early autumn are ideal for pleasant weather and enjoying the diverse scenery. Winter cycling is possible, but conditions may vary, especially in wooded sections.

As a 'Voie Verte' (greenway) designed for non-motorized activities, dogs are generally permitted on leash. However, always ensure your dog is under control and check for any specific local regulations around Lac du Malsaucy, which is an 'Espace Naturel Sensible' and bird refuge.

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Belfort - Lac du Malsaucy Cycle Route. It's a publicly accessible greenway.

Yes, this cycle route integrates into broader cycling networks. It follows sections of the FrancoVéloSuisse (V583 and V64), which extends from Belfort to Jura, Switzerland, and offers connections to the EuroVelo 6 route. It also intersects with local trails like Lac de Malsaucy and Liaison cyclable du Malsaucy.

The route is approximately 25.5 kilometers long with around 150 meters of elevation gain. It typically takes about 1 hour and 32 minutes to complete, but you can easily extend this for a more leisurely tour, allowing time to enjoy the scenery and stops.

While the route passes through urban areas like Belfort and Valdoie where facilities are available, the main destination, Lac du Malsaucy, is a popular leisure base. You can expect to find cafes, restrooms, and other amenities there, especially during peak seasons.

The journey offers a diverse landscape, transitioning from the urban heart of Belfort, following the Savoureuse river, to charming countryside and wooded sections. At Lac du Malsaucy, you'll be treated to picturesque views against the backdrop of the Ballon d'Alsace and Ballon de Servance mountains, part of the southern Vosges.