The best cycling routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival
4.4
(270)
2,732
riders
251
rides
Touring cycling in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival offers routes through a diverse landscape characterized by dense forests and hilly terrain in the Vosges department. The region features predominantly paved surfaces, making it suitable for various touring cyclists. Key natural features include prominent hills like the Jumeaux and scenic viewpoints such as Roche du Chemont, alongside proximity to waterways like the Meurthe river. This area provides a blend of natural beauty and historical significance, with routes often passing through charming…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
3
riders
7.99km
00:32
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
41
riders
25.9km
01:34
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
20
riders
44.0km
02:44
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
24
riders
40.7km
02:26
280m
280m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
yes up there you have a good view
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Historic village in the Vosges Ban-de-Sapt is located on a strategic height in the Vosges and was the scene of fierce fighting during WWI, especially around the côte 627. Today it is a peaceful place with a rich culture of remembrance. The Nécropole nationale de la Fontenelle, original trenches, a panoramic table and a rare steel observation capsule from WWI make the village a unique destination for those who want to combine nature and history.
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This military cemetery at the top of Côte 627 commemorates the fierce battles of 1915 between French and German troops in the Vosges. The necropolis was built between 1921 and 1923 and contains 2,346 graves, 1,382 of which are in ossuaries. At its heart is a monumental memorial – a “phare” or lighthouse – designed by Émile Bachelet, visible from the entire valley. The site was strategically crucial: on 22 June 1915, German troops took the heights, but on 8 and 9 July the French recaptured the terrain.
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This granite memorial stone marks the exact location of the Western Front on 18 July 1918, during the final Allied offensives of the First World War. It is part of a series of 118 "Bornes du Front" designed by French sculptor and veteran Paul Moreau-Vauthier. Each stone bears a helmet on a laurel wreath and commemorates fierce fighting at that location. The borne at La Fontenelle commemorates the fierce battle in the Vosges, where French and German troops fought each other for a long time.
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Étival Abbey is one of the region's three abbeys, along with Moyenmoutier and Senones. The Romanesque church was destroyed by German troops in 1944 and was soon beautifully rebuilt with beautiful stained-glass windows. A truly remarkable church. The former cloister is still visible, and there's a lovely herb garden.
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As early as the 7th century, Deodatus (French Dieudonné), who was revered by the people as a saint, is said to have founded a monastery here, from which a community of canons then developed in the 10th century. At that time the church wore the patron saint of St. Mauritius. The diocese of Saint-Dié was only established in 1777 by Pope Pius VI. († 1799) built. The church building, which was built in different architectural styles, was blown up by the Germans in 1944, destroying the entire nave and the choir area along with their vaults. The reconstruction lasted until 1974; in this year the church was newly consecrated. Most of the stained glass windows were made and inserted in the 1980s. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cathedral_of_Saint-Di%C3%A9
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Nice city camping, not entered on the card.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival?
There are over 250 touring cycling routes documented in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival?
The routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival feature a diverse landscape of dense forests and hilly terrain. Many paths have predominantly paved surfaces, making them well-suited for touring cyclists. You'll encounter both gentle stretches and more challenging climbs.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival offers 33 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a gentle ride is the Étang de La Musquardière 1 loop from La Bourgonce, which is 5.0 miles (8.0 km) long and takes about 30 minutes to complete near the lake.
What are some notable natural features or viewpoints I can discover while cycling?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can cycle past prominent hills like the Jumeaux (Grand and Petit Jumeau), and enjoy expansive vistas from scenic viewpoints such as Roche du Chemont and Haute de Thoné. The forest is also near the Meurthe river and boasts numerous lakes, adding to the picturesque scenery.
Are there any historical sites along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the area has significant historical importance, particularly related to World War I. Routes often pass through villages like Ban-de-Sapt, where you can visit sites such as the Nécropole nationale de la Fontenelle and original trenches. The Ban-de-Sapt – Beautiful view loop from Saint-Remy is a moderate route that takes you through these historical sites and offers scenic viewpoints.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival?
The touring cycling routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 260 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of natural beauty, well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore historical landmarks.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Many of the touring cycling routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the moderate Abbey Church of Etival – La Molière (395 m) loop from Étival-Clairefontaine is a popular circular option that passes historical sites and offers views of the surrounding hills.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival?
While touring cycling is enjoyable throughout much of the year, spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible, but some routes might be affected by weather conditions.
Are there any longer or more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists, there are 117 difficult routes and 100 moderate routes available. A longer, moderate option is the Cathedral of Saint Die – Usine Le Corbusier loop from Saint-Remy, which covers 40.0 miles (64.4 km) and includes significant elevation gain.
Can I find routes that pass through local villages?
Absolutely. Many touring cycling routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival are designed to pass through charming local communes such as La Bourgonce, La Salle, Saint-Michel-sur-Meurthe, Saint-Remy, and Étival-Clairefontaine. This provides opportunities to experience local culture and find amenities.
What kind of infrastructure can I expect for cycling in the forest?
The region has a well-established cycling infrastructure. Many forest roads are renovated and made accessible for cycling, and a significant portion of the routes feature predominantly paved surfaces. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for touring cyclists of various skill levels.
Most popular routes in Forêt Domaniale Du Ban D’Étival
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