First pedal strokes between earthenware and wild nature

At the gateway to Germany, this first stage immerses you in gentle countryside and an astonishing heritage, along the peaceful banks of the Sarre canal.

The route starts in Grosbliederstroff and continues to Sarreguemines, a charming border town with a rich industrial past, famous for its earthenware. From the very first turns of the wheel, the scene is set: here, cycling is all about strolling. The Saar Canal traces a peaceful line through lush green countryside, where one point of interest follows another without ever disturbing the rhythm. Along the way, cyclists will discover a variety of atmospheres: picturesque villages, shady forests, vast meadows and listed wetlands.

In Sarralbe, the church of Saint-Martin stands out with its two Gothic spires, earning it the nickname "Cathedral of the Sarre". A little further on, the route winds its way through Alsace Bossue, where a stopover at the Harskirchen marina invites you to relax by the water. The route then continues through the Honau nature reserve, a Natura 2000 site remarkable for its biodiversity. Peace reigns, disturbed only by birdsong and the lapping of the water. Along the way, a number of interpretation panels tell you more about the local history, the ecosystems you pass through and the heritage of this borderland of mixed influences.

The route ends in an enchanting setting: the Pays des Étangs. Here, the reflections of the sky are lost in the calm waters of the Stock and Gondrexange ponds. It's a breath of fresh air in an unspoilt natural setting, ideal for getting away from it all and making quiet discoveries. Easy, signposted and safe, this stage is ideal for a gentle warm-up... or a great day out exploring with the family.