The Blue Way cycle route – Moselle-Saône by bike
Long route of more than 700km, the Moselle Saône Blue Route connects Luxembourg to LyonFrom north to south, it crisscrosses Meurthe-et-Moselle in several stages, mainly along towpaths. This makes it a route particularly accessible to beginners!
As you pedal, let yourself be seduced by the diversity of its landscapes and the heritage that is revealed to you.
Saddle up for adventure, in slow mode!
From Metz to Pont-à-Mousson
Your epic journey on the Blue Way in Meurthe-et-Moselle begins with our neighbors in Metz. A first stage which will take you to Pont-à-Mousson on a route of a little more than 30km.
Top start in Metz!
After visiting the capital of Moselle, its famous cathedral and the Centre Pompidou-Metz, it's time to get on your bike! You leave the city to the south and alternate between landscapes of ponds and vineyards.
The Arnaville canal bridge
You are passing near this particularly remarkable workThe bridge supported by 5 arches is built over the Rupt de Mad, a small stream tributary of the Moselle.
The ponds of Pagny-sur-Moselle
Continue along the Moselle to Pagny-sur-Moselle. Here, several bodies of water follow one another. Don't hesitate to stray slightly from the cycle path to cycle around it. You'll be charmed by the bucolic atmosphere that reigns there. Classified as a Sensitive Natural Area (ENS), this area is home to one of the last large wet meadows typical of the banks of the Moselle. It is home to a rich and diverse flora and fauna. You can notably observe many protected animal and plant species. This is the case for two plants, the common dropwort and the meadow sedge.
It's time to get back on the road. Between Pagny-sur-Moselle and Pont-à-Mousson, the route runs gently along the Moselle Lateral Canal.
Arrival in Pont-à-Mousson
Soon you will see the silhouette of the Premonstratensian Abbey, announcing your arrival in Pont-à-Mousson. After your cycling trip, take the time to explore the heritage of this small town full of charm and enjoy a well-deserved evening of rest! On the terrace, enjoy one of the beers still produced in the city*.
*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation
The Premonstratensian Abbey
It is undoubtedly the jewel of the city. Considered as a masterpiece of monastic architecture, the Premonstratensian Abbey rises elegantly on the banks of the Moselle. As you wander through its corridors, you will be immersed in the history of the place, from the 18th century to the present day. You will discover the various rooms once occupied by the Premonstratensian Order as well as the abbey, 18m high! Climb the majestic stairs to the Grandpierre library and its shelves full of treasures. The cloister houses a garden of scents and constitutes a refreshing haven of peace. In the main courtyard, a French garden allows you to admire all the beauty of the place. Finally, admire the pretty view of the town of Pont-à-Mousson from the Moselle garden!
Duroc Square
Its originality lies in its triangular shape, unique in europe ! The opportunity to stroll under its arcades and admire the House of the 7 Deadly Sins. Will you be able to recognize them? They are personified by statuettes covering the facade. On either side of this central square, in the streets Saint Laurent and Saint Martin, don't miss the Renaissance-style houses and mansions.
The Gélot bridge and the viewpoint over the Moselle
A little further on, on foot, cross the Gélot bridge and admire the view of the Moselle that opens up before you. On one side the marina, the other, Saint Laurent church. Soon you will be along the former university of Pont-à-Mousson ! Established in Pont-à-Mousson in 1572, it spread throughout Europe for two centuries.
The first university of Lorraine
The University of Pont-à-Mousson was founded by the Jesuits in the midst of the Renaissance in opposition to the Protestantism of Metz. Composed of 4 Faculties (medicine, law, theology and arts) it constitutes the first university of Lorraine. The city became an intellectual and religious center, a veritable meeting place for scientists from around the world. The university's reputation continued until its transfer to Nancy under the orders of Louis XV in 1768.
The Paper Thread Museum
Just a stone's throw from Place Duroc, step through the doors of the Hôtel de la Monnaie. This magnificent Renaissance building offers a surprising visit. The place indeed conceals a unique collection of lacquered objects in France...in papier-mâché! From furniture to various small objects, all were produced in the city or in Europe during the 19th century.
The museum also traces the history of the city, marked by the founding of the University of Pont-à-Mousson and, closer to us, by the Foundries which exported the name of the city all over the world.
The Saint-Gobain PAM factory
Dive into behind the scenes of industrial know-how which is exported all over the world! In Pont-à-Mousson, the Saint-Gobain PAM production plant opens its doors to you (visits by reservation)For over 165 years, the company has specialized in the production of pipes. Put on your safety equipment and discover the different stages of cast iron pipe manufacturing. An informative and fascinating tour in the heart of a factory still in operation !
Our activity ideas in Pont-à-Mousson and the surrounding area
From Pont-à-Mousson to Nancy
You leave Pont-à-Mousson and get on your bike for a new 35 km long stage.
The EDF combined cycle gas power plant in Blénod
Shortly after leaving Pont-à-Mousson, visit the Blénod power plant, a natural gas-fired electricity production site. It is also the first of its type built by EDF in FranceIts purpose is to cope with peak consumption. With its capacity of 430 MW, the plant innovates both in its technology and its sustainability. During your visit, you will be able to discover the Combined Cycle Gas plant and its control room, the machine room, or even the water demineralization station. More unusual, art has its place here! Several huge street art frescoes will punctuate your visit!
Dieulouard Castle
Built in the 10th century by the Bishop of Verdun, the castle was once a fortified house. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, it became an imposing fortress during the 14th century. Its outer walls are quite well preserved. The medieval site now houses a Gallo-Roman museum.
From Dieulouard, the route follows a path along the edge of ponds then some sections of departmental road which require great caution.
The old Pompey steelworks
From a small wine-growing village, Pompey evolved into a steel-making town with the arrival of the steelworks around 1879. Although they have now disappeared from the landscape, they have left many traces in the town. Located on the former site of the factory, a historical and interactive tour will introduce you to the world of iron. Along the banks, your dive into Pompey's industrial past will take you from the old blast furnaces to the rolling mill, passing by the Bow String, this bridge lined with rails which allowed the two banks of the factory to be connected.
Did you know?
The Pompey steelworks have left their mark on many monuments around the world. This is where the 7000 tons needed for the construction of the Eiffel Tower ! It was also the Pompey steelworks which supplied the iron of the structure of the Statue of Liberty in New York ! On the statue, a plaque also testifies to the Meurthe-et-Moselle origin of its metallic “skeleton”!
The junction with the Moselle Loop
After Custines, the Meurthe and Moselle rivers join. It is at this confluence that you can turn off towards Toul by taking the Moselle Loop. If you continue on your way, you'll soon arrive in Nancy!
Arrival in Nancy
The ducal city opens its golden doors to you! An essential stop on your cycling adventure, it reveals to you a unique heritage and many delicacies ! Take the time to explore its iconic museums and stroll through its streets. Gaze up and admire its architecture, which will immerse you in the city's history!
Stanislas Square
UNESCO listed with its neighbors the places of Alliance and Carrière, Stanislas Square is considered as one of the most beautiful royal squares in Europe. And for good reason! Its classical architecture, its majestic fountains and its ironwork enhanced with gold will not leave you indifferent. Commissioned by the Duke of Lorraine Stanislas Leszczynski in the mid-18th century to pay homage to his son-in-law Louis XV, its objective was to link the old town and the new town. Take the time to stroll there and why not, take a little tour of the Nursery park adjoining the square.
The Godron Garden
Located near the Nancy Museum-Aquarium, the Godron garden originally had a botanical vocation. Today it offers a great plant diversity. Ecogarden and Remarkable Garden label, it is an educational and experimental place.
Other remarkable parks and gardens in Nancy and the surrounding area
The Porte de la Craffe and the historic center
The Craffe Gate constitutes the only medieval monument from the city center, and one of the rare remains of the fortifications now disappeared. It is an ideal starting point for a pleasant visit to the old town and its charming medieval streets.
Stroll in Grande Rue and discover the facade of the former palace of the Dukes of Lorraine which mixes Gothic and Renaissance styles. From the Porte de la Craffe to the Place Saint Epvre, the maze of alleys reveals a timeless atmosphere!
Stock up on treats!
Bergamot, macarons, or mirabelle plums: Nancy will delight your taste buds! Meurthe-et-Moselle is rich in gastronomy, so take advantage of your getaway to taste our destination's must-try savory and sweet specialties. Step through the doors of our artisans and merchants and savor these must-try treats. Among them, certified confectioners Nancy Sweet Passions share ancestral know-how through iconic specialties. The brand guarantees that the products are artisanal and made on site using local ingredients whenever possible.
The Nancy School Museum
The Nancy School Museum offers you a dive into Art Nouveau and its local movement: the Nancy School. It isone of the only museums in the world entirely dedicated to the movementIt offers a vast collection of furniture, art objects, glassware, and stained glass by the greatest artists of the period: Gallé, Gruber, and Vallin. Naturalist inspiration dominates here.
The Villa Majorelle
A stone's throw from the Ecole de Nancy museum, the Villa Majorelle is the first Art Nouveau house in Nancy. Home of cabinetmaker Louis Majorelle, it immerses you in the intimacy of the artist and his family. Between meticulous restoration of the original decors and furnishing of period furniture, The villa reflects the atmosphere of an Art Nouveau interior.
Explore the Art Nouveau & Art Deco sites in Nancy
Nancy Thermal
Looking for a break dedicated to well-being and relaxation? Come to Nancy Thermal ! This aquatic space reconnects with the spa tradition of NancyBetween swimming pools and water games, sauna, hammam and jacuzzi: the different spaces are the promise of a moment of letting go. Take advantage of the benefits of thermal water, all in the heart of the city and yet far from the urban hustle and bustle!
From Nancy to Charmes
This last stage in Meurthe-et-Moselle is done wilderIt will take you to Charmes, a small town in the Vosges where you can take a little rest.
The park and castle of Montaigu
Shortly after leaving Nancy, the Montaigu estate welcomes you.
Magnificent residence dating from the 18th century, the castle houses an exceptional collection of art objects, paintings, sculptures, musical instruments and furniture, as well as archaeological remains. Outside, the park of 14 hectares evokes romanticism and skillfully mixes English park and French garden. The castle is labeled “House of the Illustrious”
The Science Enthusiast
In the heart of the Montaigu estate, the Science Enthusiast is a cultural establishment that immerses you in the captivating world of science. Will you be able to solve the challenges that await you? The site also reveals all the secrets of iron, ore long mined and processed in Meurthe-et-Moselle. The site is a great opportunity to expand on the knowledge acquired at Pompey about the industrial past of our destination! You can even admire a section of the Eiffel Tower staircase over 9 meters long !
The junction with the V52
Here you can choose between continuing your cycle route on the Blue Route or branching off to the east and taking the V52. The latter runs alongside the Marne-Rhine Canal between Vitry-le-François and Strasbourg.
Fléville Castle
Go back in time to Fléville Castle ! Admire his 30-meter-high dungeon, inherited from the medieval period, leaning against a beautiful Renaissance façade. The interior is fully furnished and you can appreciate beautiful Renaissance woodwork, 18th century tapestries and visit the royal apartments dedicated to the King of Poland, Duke of Lorraine Stanislas Leszczynski. Outside, a walk in le castle park, labeled Remarkable Garden, is essential.
The castle has the particularity of still being inhabited, by the same family for two centuries!
The Messein nautical base
Take the plunge! Dedicated to outdoor activities, the water sports center offers sailing, pedal boat, paddleboard, and kayak rentals. A great opportunity to do a refreshing break in an exceptional natural setting!
The Flavigny canal bridge
The canal bridge allows the Vosges Canal to cross the Moselle. Around ten arches span the river. By crossing it, you can observe the Villa of the Sources, pretty Art Nouveau-inspired residence.
Bayon Castle
This 19th century mansion takes up the Renaissance architectural codes with its large mullioned windows, pepperpot roofs, and ornate pediments. The residence was built near the former castle of the lords of Bayon, now destroyed.
The Wild Moselle Regional Nature Reserve
On the borders of Meurthe-et-Moselle and the Vosges, Reserve covers an area of 380 hectares. The site contributes to the regulation of the river's flow. The natural dynamics of the watercourse have produced a great diversity of natural habitats, which has allowed the development of diverse flora and fauna.
Here you can admire the Bank Martin and the Little Ringed Plover, species that are native to the banks of the Moselle and its immediate surroundings. As for the European Beaver, it finds very favorable habitats here!
Arrival in Charmes
You're now leaving Meurthe-et-Moselle and stopping in the Vosges. If you'd like to continue your cycling journey, the Voie Bleue continues towards Lyon, via Chalon-sur-Saône and Mâcon.
© Pierre Defontaine / Clo & Clem / John Leroux studio / Mad & Moselle community of communes / Guillaume Robert-Famy / Régine Datin / French Wanderers / Château de Fléville / Patrick.A MARTIN / GBERGER-CD54 / DJACQUOT-CD54 / City of Nancy / Julie Fort / Grégory Flusin / Margot Monmirel