The best gravel rides around Lac du Malsaucy
4.5
(14)
131
riders
40
rides
Gravel biking around Lac du Malsaucy offers diverse landscapes in the Territoire de Belfort, France. The region features a 55-hectare lake surrounded by wetlands, forests, and numerous smaller ponds, with the Vosges mountains providing a scenic backdrop. Routes often combine paved sections with gravel segments, traversing wooded areas and following the Savoureuse river. The terrain includes options from gentle paths around the lake to more challenging climbs with significant elevation gains.
Best gravel bike trails around Lac du Malsaucy
- The…
Last updated: July 16, 2026
4.0
(1)
16
riders
64.0km
03:52
530m
530m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
28
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
13
riders
34.1km
02:08
250m
250m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
45.7km
03:11
1,070m
1,070m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
77.4km
05:05
810m
810m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Other adventures around Lac du Malsaucy
Tips from the Community
If you like to hurt and question gravity, this is the right place.
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It starts gently... but that's just the beginning.
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Long hesitated to do it. Short but very hard, with the Pinot turn and the last ramp of the super board to tell yourself that it's really hard.
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very beautiful route!!! drive slowly!! watch out for pedestrians
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Beautiful sculpture and coat of arms of Belfort, below the fortress.
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A "chemin de halage", in German "treidelpfad", which runs alongside the waterway right next to the bed of the river or canal, was an indispensable part of the transport infrastructure in earlier times. Before ships could move using motor power, horses ran along the bank and pulled the ship against the current. This was called "treideln", and this is how the "treidelpfads" got their name, which has been passed down to this day. Where these paths directly on the bank have been preserved, they are often used by hikers and cyclists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Lac du Malsaucy?
There are over 35 gravel bike routes to explore around Lac du Malsaucy. These range from easy rides to more challenging tours, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in this region?
The terrain around Lac du Malsaucy is quite diverse, featuring a mix of paved sections and gravel segments. You'll ride through wooded areas, along the shores of the lake, and alongside the Savoureuse river, with views of the Vosges mountains in the distance. Some routes include significant elevation gains, while others are flatter.
Are there any easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are several easier routes. For a pleasant ride, consider the 8 km "Promenade François Mitterrand" (Voie Verte) which connects Belfort to Lac du Malsaucy, offering a scenic path through wooded areas. While specific family-friendly gravel routes are not detailed, the general area around the lake offers gentler paths suitable for a relaxed pace.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about riding in Lac du Malsaucy?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the beautiful lake views, and the peaceful forest paths that make for an engaging gravel biking experience.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Lac du Malsaucy?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops. For example, the Lake Malsaucy – Lac du Malsaucy loop from Lachapelle-sous-Chaux is a moderate 26 km trail that leads through forests and along the lake shore, taking about 2 hours to complete.
What are some of the more challenging gravel bike routes in the region?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes extending into the Vosges mountains offer significant climbs. An example is the La Planche des Belles Filles – Ballon de Servance loop from Giromagny, which is nearly 89 km long with over 2,000 meters of elevation gain, requiring good to very good fitness.
Can I reach the gravel trails around Lac du Malsaucy using public transport?
While specific public transport connections directly to all trailheads are not detailed, the "Promenade François Mitterrand" (Voie Verte) provides an 8 km cycling link from Belfort to Lac du Malsaucy, suggesting that reaching Belfort by public transport could be a starting point for accessing the area's trails.
Are there places to park my car when accessing the gravel bike trails?
Yes, parking is generally available, particularly near the main attractions like the Base Nautique at Lac du Malsaucy. This provides convenient access to many of the surrounding trails.
What natural features or landmarks can I expect to see along the trails?
Beyond the lake itself, you'll encounter diverse natural landscapes including wetlands, forests, and reedbeds. The area is a significant spot for ornithology, with bird observatories where you might spot migratory birds. The Vosges mountains provide a scenic backdrop to many rides.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking around Lac du Malsaucy?
The region is enjoyable for gravel biking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, especially if you plan to combine your ride with swimming at the supervised public beach at Lac du Malsaucy. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are there any longer gravel bike routes for extended rides?
Absolutely. For a longer excursion, consider the Malsaucy cycling link – Lac du Malsaucy loop from Lachapelle-sous-Chaux, a difficult 44.2 km route that offers more demanding sections and takes around 3 hours to complete.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter while gravel biking here?
Lac du Malsaucy is a recognized "Refuge LPO" (Ligue pour la Protection des Oiseaux), making it a hotspot for birdwatching. You might spot various migratory birds such as Tufted Ducks, Common Sandpipers, and Black Kites, especially near the lake's wetlands and reedbeds.
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