Warming up your calves in the Langres region

Leaving from the fortified city of Langres, this first stage takes you on a tour of a surprising archaeological and military heritage. Despite the peaceful appearance of the roads in the Haute-Marne region, there are a few changes in altitude to be expected: you're in for a sporty warm-up!

You'll set off from Langres, Europe's largest fortified town with 8 km of ramparts. Langres has a rich cultural heritage, and has been awarded the label Plus Beaux Détours en France (Most Beautiful Detours in France) and Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (Town of Art and History). A former royal stronghold, many of its military remains have been preserved over the centuries. From the top of the ramparts, walk along the covered walkway and admire the panoramic views over the Champagne region. As you stroll through the historic centre, don't miss the elegant town houses from the Renaissance period. Leave behind the city of the philosopher Diderot and get on your bike for the rest of your journey.

Cycling eastwards, you will follow part of the banks of the "Entre Champagne et Bourgogne" canal. You will then arrive at Lac de La Liez. This vast 290-hectare expanse of water is ideal for a wide range of activities. If you're feeling sporty, there's even a 16km trail that allows you to go round it on foot or mountain bike.

Now it's time to continue on towardsAndilly-en-Bassigny and its archaeological site. Here you can still see the remains of an impressive Gallo-Roman complex comprising a villa and its spa complex, as well as a Merovingian necropolis.

And for a gastronomic break, stop off in Saulxures to sample some Langres cheese! An emblematic speciality that will delight your taste buds and give you the energy you need for the rest of the route. Shortly afterwards, at Le Châtelet-sur-Meuse, the route takes you to the source of the Meuse. This symbolic diversions gives your adventure its full meaning: this is the birthplace of the river that will be the common thread running through La Meuse à Vélo. In peaceful, leafy surroundings, take the time to observe this unassuming but meaningful starting point, before continuing on to Montigny-le-Roi.