Moselle Loop Cycle Route
Between heritage, local gastronomy and bucolic landscapes, the Boucle de la Moselle 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
Departing from Nancy, famous for its Place Stanislas, a jewel of classical architecture, head towards Neuves-Maisons and immerse yourself in the steelmaking past of Meurthe-et-Moselle: we're 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 along 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, is located the connection with the Blue Way (V50). You can then head south and reach Lyon.
The Messein nautical base
Along the Vosges Junction Canal, your cycling adventure continues to Messein, in a green setting. In summer, the nautical base offers a refreshing break. Sailing, pedal boating, paddle boarding or even canoeing and kayaking : it’s the opportunity to swap your two-wheeler for a nautical 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
A few kilometers from Neuves-Maisons, on the heights of Bainville-sur-Madon, the Fort Pelissier opens its doors to you. A former fort built in the 19th century, today it is a leisure park for the whole familyMany activities are accessible from 3 years old: tree climbing, puzzles, maze, barefoot path…. Bonus: enjoy a 360° panorama of the surroundings!
Note: the climb by bike is worth some effort!
From Neuves-Maisons to Toul
In the saddle for this new stage of 20km which immerses you in the past of Lorraine's steel industry and in the history of France. Continue to Toul, famous for its Saint-Étienne Cathedral and its ramparts, and its wine-growing lands where the famous Côtes de Toul are produced.
The fortified complex of Villey-le-Sec
This is a unique site! Here the village is enclosed within a wall of more than 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 war of 1870, the fort of Villey-le-Sec is inherited from the Séré de Rivières defensive system. Your visit to the facilities will be completed by a tour on a small train, similar to those which once supplied the fort: an exceptional panorama of the coasts of Toul and Woëvre awaits you!
Sensitive Natural Areas (ENS)
The Moselle Valley has many ENS, which you will cross or pass along during your cycling adventure. These areas are distinguished by their richness of fauna and flora, but also by their great fragility. The preservation of these remarkable spaces but also the promotion of their specificities are essential issues.
The caves of Pierre-la-Treiche
Dug out by the Moselle over a million years ago, there are… 39 of them! Accessible by a cycle and pedestrian path, you can have fun explore some of these cavities which line the path. Others are caving sites, reserved exclusively for the most athletic 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
Former episcopal city and ancient stronghold Toul's eventful past has left its mark! Its rich heritage is an open-air history book. Lovers of art, history, and even wine will be delighted here: Toul is the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding vineyards!
The stronghold of Toul
Due to its strategic location and its relief, Toul very quickly acquired battlements. Vauban under Louis XIV, then Séré de Rivières in 1870 came to consolidate the defensive system. A large part of the wall is still visible: don't miss out on discovering it during your walk in Toul. Around the city, the system designed by Séré de Rivières to defend the new French border includes no fewer than 15 forts: this makes Toul one of the largest strongholds in the world in 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 beautiful starting point for explore the old town of Toul and its treasures. During your visit, you will discover the Saint-Gengoult collegiate church and its intimate cloister. A little further on, there is the Michel Hachet Museum of Art and History (currently closed for renovations, only the lapidary room is accessible) which reveals to you 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 secret vineyard on the edge of the Boucle de la Moselle! Over a distance of 12 km round trip from Pagney-derrière-Barine, the route largely follows the route of a railway line that connected Toul to Thiaucourt, running alongside the vineyards. Today, it is an excellent way to discover the northern part of the vineyard and 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 is revealed on a rocky spur. You have to know how to take the time to stop to glimpse the Big House (Fortress) and the church. The more adventurous will tackle the hill leading to the village for a tour and to enjoy this charming villageThe garden of the fortified house, built at the end of the 15th century, constitutes a spacious terrace overlooking the Moselle valley.
The Old Canton Fort
Le Old Canton Fort is a work forming part of the stronghold of Toul. It is distinguished by its modernity because it is the only fort built of reinforced concreteLocated in the Villey-Saint-Etienne forest, the site now offers a pleasant walk on a marked and well-informed route.
The medieval city of Liverdun
Located on a rocky spur, the medieval city of Liverdun overlooks the Moselle flowing below. Built in the 12th century, Liverdun was the summer residence of the bishops of Toul. Many monuments and buildings, particularly from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, still exist today and bear witness to its rich history.
Take the time to stroll and discover its heritage, from the Porte Haute to Corbin Castle, passing by the Manoir de la Flie and the Camilly hotel. In the 19th century, Liverdun welcomed many Nancy residents 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
Remains of the old gate of the fortified enclosure of Liverdun, the High Gate once protected the northern entrance to the city. It is surrounded by two towers, one round which served as a guard post and the second square, used as a refuge and prison. From the Upper Gate, don't miss the impressive panorama of the Moselle loop.
Corbin Castle and its park
Built on the site of the medieval ramparts, Corbin Castle was the home of the patron of the Nancy School, Eugène Corbin. The park is a real place of relaxation where you can refresh yourself in the shade of the century-old trees. During the summer, a community café brings the place 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 amazing work of art is erected on the site known as "the mouth of hell". 12 metal blocks called "mothers of castings", recovered from the Pompey steelworks, are arranged in a sundial. Back on the left bank, you will see vertical blocks that have been erected and aligned like menhirs. A great way to repurpose the remains of the steel industry and enhance their value!
The old Pompey steelworks
The history of Pompey is closely linked to that of the steel industry. Steelworks were established there from the end of the 1870s. They were quickly recognized for their expertise: they were the ones who supplied the more than 7 tons of iron needed to build the Eiffel Tower! Although the factory closed in 1986 and has now disappeared from the landscape, it has left a significant mark on the city and on people's minds. Starting from the factory's former location, discover the world of iron by following a historical and interactive journey.
The Bow String Bridge and its frescoes
Le Bow String Bridge was an integral part of the Pompey steelworks. Lined with rails, it connected the two banks of the factory. The bridge's pillars have been highly prized by graffiti artists for the past ten years! Don't miss the chance to admire their ephemeral works when you cycle past!
The junction with the Blue Way
In Pompey, at the confluence of the Meurthe and the Moselle, there is the connection with the Blue Way allowing you to head north and join Metz and Luxembourg.
The Bas de Champigneulles castle and its park
Built at the beginning of the 18th century, the castle was then part of a very large and luxurious estate. At that time, the Duke of Lorraine Leopold often went there with his court. A 13-hectare park surrounds the castle. Redeveloped in English garden, It consists of vast grassy clearings, bordered by groves. Only the park is accessible today.
The Douëra
Built on the banks of the Meurthe, the Douëra is a orientalist villa from the 19th century, a true architectural curiosity inspired by Moorish art. Designed as a place of art and contemplation, it boasts a tree-lined park, open to the public year-round. It offers a perfect setting for strolling and exploring, combining unique heritage and peaceful nature. A rare find to discover on the outskirts of 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
Stanislas, Alliance and Carrière squares form an 18th century architectural ensemble unique in Europe! Formerly a royal square, Place Stanislas is today dedicated to the last Duke of Lorraine Stanislas Leszczynski. It is considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe ! With the aim of connecting the old town and the new town, it is distinguished by its classical architecture, its majestic fountains and its ironwork enhanced with gold.
Parks and gardens
The metropolis of Greater Nancy offers many urban parks, gardens or natural spacesA rich diversity of plants and atmospheres awaits you as you stroll through them. Some parks are labeled "Remarkable Gardens."
The Street Art trail in Nancy
An open-air museum, Nancy invites you to discover contemporary works through its DNA journey (Art in Nancy). More than 40 works dot the city, bringing heritage into dialogue with more contemporary creations. Discover another side of Nancy!
The medieval charm of the Old Town
From Place Stanislas, you 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 Place Saint-Epvre and in the adjacent alleys: you will be immersed in a timeless atmosphere. Soon you will arrive Craffe Gate, oldest monument in Nancy's historic center, and one of the only remains of the ancient fortifications from the city !
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 Museum of the Nancy School is one of the only ones in the world dedicated to this artistic movement. It offers a vast collection of pieces characteristic of the Nancy movement in which the naturalist influence is omnipresent. Marquetry furniture by Eugène Vallin or Majorelle, objets d'art, glasswork by Gallé, stained glass by Grüber... the greatest artists of the period are represented.
Complete your visit with Villa Majorelle, located a stone's throw from the museum. Family home of the artist Louis Majorelle, it is the first Art Nouveau house in Nancy. Between careful restoration of the original decor and furnishing of 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: shapes became more geometric and ornaments more stylized. The same artists who had distinguished themselves 20 years earlier within the École de Nancy adopted these new principles. Nancy was once again an important creative center and more than 1 Art Deco buildings were built between the two wars!
Nancy Thermal
After your cycling efforts, it's time to relax! Nancy Thermal, enjoy all the benefits of water drawn from 800 meters underground and naturally rich in minerals. The establishment combines in one place an aquatic and sports complex, a thermal spa and a treatment centerIndoor and outdoor pools, water games, jacuzzis, sauna and hammam... the establishment thus revives the thermal tradition of the ducal city.
Nancy Sweet Passions
Rum baba, Nancy macaroons, Nancy bergamot, Lorraine thistle or Mirabelle plum sweets... a visit to Nancy would not be complete without the tasting of local specialties ! Nancy Passions Sucrées is a label that brings together confectioners, bakers, restaurateurs and pastry chefs and guarantees both the quality of the products and the know-how of these food 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