Between canals and ramparts, head for Langres

This stage takes you from Chaumont to Langres along a peaceful green route through the rolling countryside of the Haute-Marne, on your way to one of France's most beautiful fortified towns.

The route starts again at Chaumont, a town perched on its rocky outcrop, once the stronghold of the Counts of Champagne. Before getting back in the saddle, take the time to explore this capital of Haute-Marne, with its remarkable architectural heritage. You'll discover houses with turrets, the Saint-Jean-Baptiste basilica, art and history museums, not to mention the Centre national du graphisme, a showcase for contemporary creativity. Chaumont is a perfect blend of medieval heritage and cultural dynamism, offering a fine transition between town and country before returning to the peace and quiet of the greenway.

A short diversions into nature can enhance your itinerary: the Rolampont tufa quarry, close to the V53, is a fascinating geological site where limestone-laden water has been shaping a landscape sculpted from travertine for centuries. Although cycling is not possible here, this stop is well worth a visit for lovers of nature and amazing phenomena off the beaten track.

As you approach Langres, the fortified town looms on the horizon, set on a promontory overlooking the surrounding valleys. The climb up to the upper town, although a little strenuous, is rewarded by spectacular views over the Haut-Marnais countryside from its impressive ramparts. Once in the saddle in the narrow streets of Langres, you'll be amazed by its Cathedral, its 12 towers and 7 monumental gates, its Museum of Art and History and Denis Diderot's House of Enlightenment, which was born here. A visit to Langres is the perfect way to round off your itinerary, with images that will stay with you for a long time.