Moselle Loop Cycle Route
Between heritage, local gastronomy and bucolic landscapes, the Moselle Loop is an unforgettable experience for cycling and discovery enthusiasts.
A bike ride from 85 km that we invite you to explore in 4 stages, all accessible by train. The Moselle Loop constitutes a variant of the Blue Way. You can join this route at various points along the route.
Mainly developed on greenways and small shared roads and offering little elevation gain, the route is suitable for cyclists of all levels.
From Nancy to Neuves-Maisons
Starting from Nancy, famous for its Place Stanislas, a jewel of classical architecture, head towards Neuves-Maisons and immerse yourself in the iron and steelmaking past of Meurthe-et-Moselle: it's off for about twenty kilometers!
The Science Enthusiast
Your first pedal strokes take you to the Science enthusiastThis unique space allows young and old alike to immerse themselves in the captivating world of science!
The Iron Gallery will reveal the whole story of this mineral, particularly rich in Meurthe-et-Moselle, from extraction to its transformation. In the tinkering space, room for discovery and experimentation! You will even find in this place a piece of the Eiffel Tower staircase !
The Montaigu estate
Continue towards the Montaigu estate, located a few steps from the Science Fancier. This elegant castle from the 18th century is the setting of a exceptional collection of furniture, musical instruments, art objects, paintings and archaeological discoveries of the last owners, the Salin family. Rich in this collection, the residence is labeled Maison des Illustres.
Outside, the park evokes both the classic layouts of a French garden and those of an English park.
The junction with the V52
Here, you can turn east and take the V52. This route runs alongside the Marne-Rhine Canal between Vitry-le-François, Paris and Strasbourg.
Fléville Castle
Discover the fascinating history of the Fléville Castle whose origins date back more than 700 years! From the dungeon to the chapel, including the bedroom of the last Duke of Lorraine, Stanislas Leszczynski, the interior is fully furnished and invites you to dive back in time.
Children can even wear a costume at the entrance for a fun… and magical visit!
Le castle park is labeled Remarkable gardenTake advantage of the fine weather to stroll around and admire the magnificent trompe-l'oeil decoration on one of the facades of the orangery.
The junction with the Blue Way
In Méréville, at the confluence of the Vosges Canal and the Nancy Junction Canal, there is a connection with the Voie Bleue (V50). From there, you can head south and reach Lyon.
The Messein nautical base
Along the Vosges Junction Canal, your cycling adventure continues to Messein, in a verdant setting. In the warmer months, the water sports center offers a refreshing break. Sailing, pedal boats, paddleboarding, or canoeing/kayaking : it's the perfect opportunity to swap your bicycle for a water-based mode of transport!
The iron mines of Neuves-Maisons
The presence of significant iron ore and the industrial revolution allowed the development of the steel industry in Meurthe-et-Moselle, particularly around Nancy. It is from these Meurthe-et-Moselle deposits that the iron used for the construction of the Eiffel Tower and even the skeleton of the Statue of Liberty in New York!
Emblematic of this period, the Neuves-Maisons mines were exploited for nearly 100 years! Here, you enter galleries dug in the 19th century and discover the life of the miners and their work techniques. A special children's treasure hunt has been set up on the mine site.
Family adventure at Fort Pélissier
Just a few kilometers from Neuves-Maisons, on the heights of Bainville-sur-Madon, Fort Pélissier welcomes you. This former fort, built in the 19th century, is now a leisure park for the whole family . Numerous activities are available for children aged 3 and up: climbing walls, puzzles, a maze, a barefoot trail, and more. As a bonus, enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the surrounding area!
Note: the climb by bike is worth some effort!
From Neuves-Maisons to Toul
Get in the saddle for this new 20km stage that immerses you in the history of Lorraine's steel industry and French history. Continue towards Toul, famous for its Saint-Étienne Cathedral and ramparts, and its vineyards where the renowned Côtes de Toul wines are produced.
The fortified complex of Villey-le-Sec
This is a truly unique site! Here, the village is enclosed within a wall stretching over 3 km, making Villey-le-Sec the only fortified village in France at the end of the 19th century. Built in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, the Villey-le-Sec fort is a legacy of the Séré de Rivières defensive system. Your visit to the fortifications will be complemented by a ride on a miniature train , similar to those that once supplied the fort: an exceptional panoramic view of the Toul and Woëvre hills awaits you!
Sensitive Natural Areas (ENS)
The Moselle Valley boasts numerous Sensitive Natural Areas (ENS), which you will cross or pass alongside during your cycling adventure. These areas are distinguished by their rich fauna and flora, but also by their great fragility. Preserving these remarkable spaces and promoting their unique characteristics are essential priorities.
The caves of Pierre-la-Treiche
Carved by the Moselle River over a million years ago, there are… 39 of them! Accessible via a pedestrian and cycling path, you can enjoy exploring some of these caves that line the route. Others are caving sites, reserved exclusively for the most athletic and under the supervision of the caving federation.
The junction with the V52
Before entering Toul, you can join the V52. Be careful, however, as the route is not designated as a dedicated lane towards the East.
Arrival in Toul
A former episcopal city and stronghold : Toul's turbulent past has left many traces! Its rich heritage is an open-air history book. Art lovers, history buffs, and wine enthusiasts alike will be delighted: Toul is indeed the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding vineyards!
The stronghold of Toul
Due to its strategic location and topography, Toul was quickly fortified with ramparts . Vauban under Louis XIV, and then Séré de Rivières in 1870, reinforced the defensive system . A large part of the walls is still visible: be sure to explore them during your visit to Toul. Around the town, the system designed by Séré de Rivières to defend the new French border included no fewer than 15 forts: this made Toul one of the largest fortified cities in the world during the 20th century!
Saint-Etienne cathedral
La St. Stephen's Cathedral is the symbol of Toul's rich episcopal pastBuilt at the beginning of the 13th century, it celebrated its 800th anniversary in 2021! Its flamboyant façade contrasts with a more sober interior. As for its cloister, it is one of the biggest in France! In the summer it is possible to climb the south tower.
At the foot of the cathedral, stroll through the garden of the Episcopal Palace today the town hall, and in the rose garden.
The historic center
The cathedral is a wonderful starting point for exploring Toul's old town and its treasures. During your visit, you'll discover the Collegiate Church of Saint-Gengoult and its intimate cloister. A little further on, the Michel Hachet Museum of Art and History (currently closed for renovations, only the lapidary room is accessible) reveals the historical past of the city of Toul.
The Côtes de Toul tourist route
Toul is a great stopover on your journey along the Moselle Loop. It is also ideal if you wish to explore the Côtes de Toul tourist route around the episcopal city. Around ten estates spread across eight villages produce wines whose two labels recognize the quality and expertise of the winegrowers: the AOC Côtes de Toul for still wines and the Lorraine PGI for the sparkling ones.
Strolls through the heart of the vineyards, meetings with passionate winegrowers and tastings of the famous Toul gray : a truly authentic getaway awaits you!
The areas of the AOC Côtes de Toul
Explore the Côtes de Toul tourist route by bike!
Discover this hidden vineyard on the edge of the Moselle River loop! The 12km round trip, starting from Pagney-derrière-Barine, largely follows the route of a former railway line that once connected Toul to Thiaucourt, running alongside the vineyards. Today, it's an excellent way to explore the northern part of the vineyard and meet its producers.
From Toul to Liverdun
With Toul in the rearview mirror, finally follow the banks of the Moselle towards Liverdun, a charming hilltop village with its medieval streets and exceptional panorama.
Villey-Saint-Etienne
Between Toul and Liverdun, the village of Villey-Saint-Etienne unfolds on a rocky spur. Take the time to stop and admire the Grosse Maison (fortified house) and the church. The more adventurous can tackle the climb up to the village for a stroll and to enjoy this charming place . The garden of the fortified house, built at the end of the 15th century, forms a spacious terrace overlooking the Moselle Valley.
The Old Canton Fort
The Vieux-Canton fort is part of the Toul fortified complex. It is notable for its modern design, being the only fort built using reinforced concrete . Located in the Villey-Saint-Etienne forest, the site now offers a pleasant walk along a marked and signposted trail.
The medieval city of Liverdun
Perched on a rocky spur, the medieval town of Liverdun overlooks the Moselle River flowing below. Built in the 12th century, Liverdun was the summer residence of the bishops of Toul. Numerous monuments and buildings, particularly from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, still stand today, bearing witness to its rich history.
Take the time to stroll and discover its heritage, from the Porte Haute to the Corbin castle, passing by the Manoir de la Flie and the Hôtel de Camilly. In the 19th century, Liverdun welcomed many residents of Nancy who came by train to cool off on the banks of the Moselle. This earned it the nickname "little Deauville"!
Liverdun madeleines
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside: the Liverdun madeleine is irresistible! The little biscuit really took off in the 1920s, particularly with the people of Nancy who came to enjoy the coolness of the Moselle riverbanks. Since then, the recipe has remained unchanged, although it has been adapted to suit the tastes of those with a sweet tooth!
The High Gate
A remnant of the old gate in Liverdun's fortified walls , the Porte Haute (Upper Gate) once protected the northern entrance to the town. It is flanked by two towers : a round one that served as a guard post and a square one, used as a refuge and prison. From the Porte Haute, don't miss the breathtaking panoramic view of the Moselle River loop.
Corbin Castle and its park
Built on the site of the medieval ramparts, Château Corbin was the home of Eugène Corbin, patron of the Nancy School. The park is a true haven of relaxation where you can cool off in the shade of centuries-old trees. In the warmer months, a community café brings the grounds to life on weekends. The perfect place for a peaceful break!
From Liverdun to Nancy
Mothers of castings
Between Frouard and Custines, on the right bank of the Moselle , a striking work of art stands at the site known as "the mouth of hell." Twelve metal blocks, called "casting mothers," salvaged from the Pompey steelworks, are arranged in a sundial. Back on the left bank , you'll see vertical blocks that have been erected and aligned like menhirs. A beautiful way to repurpose and give value to the remnants of the steel industry!
The old Pompey steelworks
The history of Pompey is inextricably linked to that of the iron and steel industry. Steelworks were established there as early as the late 1870s. They quickly became renowned for their expertise: they supplied the more than 7,000 tons of iron needed to build the Eiffel Tower! Even though the factory closed its doors in 1986 and has now disappeared from the landscape, it left a significant mark on the town and its people. Starting from the former site of the factory, discover the world of iron by following a historical and interactive trail.
The Bow String Bridge and its frescoes
The Bow String Bridge was an integral part of the Pompey steelworks. Equipped with rails, it connected the two sides of the factory. For the past ten years or so, the bridge's pillars have been a favorite spot for graffiti artists! Be sure to admire their ephemeral works when you're passing by on your bike!
The junction with the Blue Way
At Pompey, at the confluence of the Meurthe and Moselle rivers, there is a connection with the Voie Bleue (Blue Way) allowing one to head north and reach Metz and Luxembourg.
The Bas de Champigneulles castle and its park
Built in the early 18th century, the château was once part of a vast and luxurious estate. At that time, Duke Leopold of Lorraine frequently visited with his court. A 13-hectare park surrounds the château. Redesigned as an English garden, it consists of large grassy clearings bordered by groves. Only the park is open to the public today.
The Douëra
Built on the banks of the Meurthe River, La Douëra is a 19th-century Orientalist villa , a true architectural curiosity inspired by Moorish art. Conceived as a place for art and contemplation, it boasts a wooded park, open to the public year-round. This park offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxation, nestled between unusual heritage and soothing nature. A rare gem to discover just outside Nancy.
Nancy, the city with golden gates
Its emblematic Place Stanislas, its Art Nouveau and Art Deco heritage, its numerous museums and gardens: the former capital of the Dukes of Lorraine invites you to stroll!
3 places classified by UNESCO
The Place Stanislas, Place d'Alliance, and Place de la Carrière form a unique 18th-century architectural ensemble in Europe! Formerly a royal square, Place Stanislas is now dedicated to Stanislas Leszczynski, the last Duke of Lorraine. It is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe ! Designed to connect the old and new towns, it is distinguished by its classical architecture, majestic fountains, and wrought-iron railings adorned with gold.
Parks and gardens
The Greater Nancy metropolitan area boasts numerous urban parks, gardens, and natural spaces . A rich diversity of plants and atmospheres awaits you as you stroll through them. Some parks have been awarded the "Remarkable Gardens" label.
The Street Art trail in Nancy
An open-air museum, Nancy invites you to discover contemporary works through its ADN (Art Dans Nancy) trail. More than 40 artworks are scattered throughout the city, creating a dialogue between heritage and more contemporary creations . Discover another side of Nancy!
The medieval charm of the Old Town
Starting from Place Stanislas, you'll reach the historic center of Nancy. Take the Grande Rue and discover the Gothic facade of the former Palace of the Dukes of Lorraine. Stroll through Place Saint-Epvre and the adjacent alleyways: you'll be immersed in a timeless atmosphere. Soon you'll arrive at Porte de la Craffe, the oldest monument in Nancy's historic center, and one of the only remaining vestiges of the city's old fortifications!
Nancy, French capital of Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau developed throughout Europe at the end of the 19th century and had different names depending on the country. In Nancy, artists gathered around the master glassmaker Emile Gallé founded the Ecole de Nancy around 1900. Architecture, glasswork, furniture: with the desire to to bring art and industry closer together and make art accessible to all, the Nancy School expresses itself in all areas of daily life.
Nancy is part of the " Art Nouveau Network " like large European cities like Brussels or Barcelona.
The Museum of the Nancy School and the Villa Majorelle
Unique, the Musée de l'École de Nancy is one of the few museums in the world dedicated to this artistic movement. It offers a vast collection of pieces characteristic of the Nancy School, in which the naturalist influence is omnipresent. Marquetry furniture by Eugène Vallin or Majorelle, objets d'art, glassware by Gallé, stained glass by Grüber… the greatest artists of the period are represented.
Complete your visit with a trip to the Villa Majorelle , located just steps from the museum. The family home of the artist Louis Majorelle, it is the first Art Nouveau house in Nancy. With its meticulous restoration of the original decor and period furniture, it immerses you in the atmosphere of an Art Nouveau interior.
Dive into Art Nouveau in Nancy
Art Nouveau or Art Deco?
In the aftermath of the First World War, the decorative arts evolved: forms became more geometric and ornamentation more stylized. The same artists who had distinguished themselves 20 years earlier within the Nancy School adopted these new principles. Nancy was once again a major center of creativity , and more than 1,300 Art Deco buildings were constructed between the wars!
Nancy Thermal
After your cycling adventure, it's time to relax! At Nancy Thermal, enjoy all the benefits of water drawn from 800 meters underground and naturally rich in minerals. The facility combines an aquatic and sports complex, a thermal spa, and a treatment center all in one place . Indoor and outdoor pools, water features, jacuzzis, sauna, and hammam... the establishment revives the thermal tradition of this former ducal city.
Nancy Sweet Passions
Rum baba, Nancy macarons, bergamot of Nancy, Lorraine thistle, or mirabelle plum sweets… a visit to Nancy wouldn't be complete without tasting local specialties ! Nancy Passions Sucrées is a label that brings together confectioners, bakers, restaurateurs, and pastry chefs, guaranteeing both the quality of their products and the expertise of these culinary artisans.
Before your stay, check with the tourist offices to find out the opening conditions of the various sites to visit.
© French Wanderers / Bertrand Jamot / Regine Datin / GBERGER-CD54 / The Citadel / H. Attenont-Valentin / City of Toul / Vincent DAMARIN / Robin Chatelain / City of Liverdun / CCBP / Pexels / MDT / City of Champigneulles / Alexandre Prevot / Pierre Defontaine / Vanessa Martin / The Crossroads of the World / MBAN / Julie Fort / M.Monmirel / City of Nancy / Julie Fort / Grégory Flusin / Udo Bernhart