The best gravel rides around Sainte-Pôle
5.0
(3)
19
riders
5
rides
Gravel biking around Sainte-Pôle offers diverse terrain within the Vosges Mountains, characterized by extensive forests and rolling wooded hills. The region features distinctive sandstone plateaus and significant elevation changes, providing dynamic routes. Lac de Pierre-Percée, known for its unique shape and turquoise waters, is encircled by varied terrain, offering scenic gravel bike trails. This landscape provides a mix of unpaved paths through forests and meadows.
Best gravel bike trails around Sainte-Pôle
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Pierre-Percée –…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
5.0
(2)
9
riders
44.3km
03:01
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
24.6km
01:39
340m
340m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
6
riders
46.0km
03:07
620m
610m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
42.5km
03:09
500m
500m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
18.4km
01:12
240m
240m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Situated in the heart of the Vosges, this dam, together with Lac de la Plaine, forms an important water reservoir. The dam was built to feed Lac de Pierre-Percée via an underground system. The climb up to it is gradual and rewards you with a view of the peaceful Lac de la Plaine. The road along the lake is ideal for a breather, with little traffic and lots of nature. Perfect for a short break or a photo opportunity during your ride.
9
0
"The Mairie de Badonviller was originally built in 1811, during the Napoleonic era, and served as the administrative centre of the young municipality. After being badly damaged during the First World War, the building was rebuilt in 1924. "Located on the edge of the Vosges in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, Badonviller is a village with a turbulent history. In the 19th century, it became a local centre thanks to the flourishing faience industry. But it was during the First World War that Badonviller became known nationwide. On 12 August 1914, the village was one of the first French municipalities to be occupied and pillaged by Bavarian troops. This event was widely reported in the French press and made Badonviller a symbol of German brutality. The village was badly damaged during the fighting and later partially rebuilt. Today, monuments, the necropolis and the townscape bear witness to this turbulent period. Badonviller is part of the 'sentiers de mémoire' — memorial routes that keep the history of the war in the Vosges alive."
6
0
"The Église Saint-Martin in Badonviller is a rare example of religious architecture in the Louis XVI style (1788). Although it is of Romanesque origin, its elegant façade is particularly striking, which is one of the few remaining examples of this style in the Lorraine region. Together with the Chapel of the Visitation in Nancy, this church forms a unique duo. The church was badly damaged during the First World War and partially rebuilt afterwards.
6
0
Harbouey, a peaceful village in the Meurthe-et-Moselle, is steeped in history. It was almost completely destroyed during the First World War, and the current Saint-Pierre church was only rebuilt in the 1920s. But Harbouey also has heritage from before that time: a 16th-century castle and characterful 17th-century houses bear witness to a deep-rooted past.
6
0
Lac de la Plaine is a picturesque lake in the Vosges, located near Celles-sur-Plaine, near the larger Lac de Pierre-Percée. The lake is an artificial water reservoir of about 0.5 million m³ and serves as a supply basin for the reservoir above.
1
0
Pierre-Percée is a small mountain village in the east of the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, on the edge of the Vosges Mountains. With fewer than 100 inhabitants, it is one of the smallest communes in the region. Situated on the edge of the Plaine Valley, the village is built at the foot of the ruins of the medieval Château de Pierre-Percée, which once belonged to the Counts of Salm. The village's name refers to a 33-meter-deep well carved into the rock beneath the castle. During the Thirty Years' War, the village, like the castle, was largely destroyed. In the 20th century, Pierre-Percée regained significance with the construction of the EDF reservoir and the creation of a recreation area, which today attracts tourists for hiking, water sports, and nature experiences.
9
0
This memorial commemorates the dead of the First World War as well as the citizens of Pierre-Percée who died in other wars.
1
0
Magnificent panoramas, technical trail with some passages to be passed with caution
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Sainte-Pôle?
There are 7 gravel bike trails available around Sainte-Pôle, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include routes of varying difficulty, from moderate to challenging, winding through the region's distinctive landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Sainte-Pôle?
The terrain around Sainte-Pôle is characterized by extensive forests, rolling wooded hills, and distinctive sandstone plateaus. You'll find a mix of unpaved paths through forests and meadows, with significant elevation changes and entrenched valleys, providing dynamic and engaging routes. The region is often likened to 'Little Canada of Lorraine' due to its rugged natural beauty.
Are there any challenging gravel bike routes near Sainte-Pôle?
Yes, Sainte-Pôle offers several challenging gravel routes. For instance, the Poilus' Cave – Chapelotte Pass loop from Pierre-Percée is a difficult 69.9 km trail with significant elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Pré Barbier Lake – M4A2 Sherman Tank "Mort-Homme loop from Fenneviller, a 46.0 km path that winds through forested areas and past historical points of interest.
Are there any moderate gravel bike trails suitable for less experienced riders?
Yes, there are moderate options available. The region offers routes suitable for various fitness levels. For example, the Lac de la Plaine – Lake La Plaine loop from Fenneviller is a moderate 23.9 km route, and the Lac de la Plaine – Lake La Plaine loop from Celles-sur-Plaine is an 18.8 km moderate trail, both offering enjoyable rides without extreme difficulty.
What are the best seasons for gravel biking in Sainte-Pôle?
The Vosges Mountains, where Sainte-Pôle is located, are ideal for gravel biking during spring, summer, and autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for exploring the extensive forests and varied terrain. While winter biking is possible, be prepared for potentially steep sections with large boulders and varying conditions, necessitating coarse-tread tires.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes around Sainte-Pôle?
Many of the gravel bike routes in Sainte-Pôle are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Poilus' Cave – Chapelotte Pass loop from Pierre-Percée and the Pierre-Percée – Lac de la Plaine loop from Baccarat, which takes you through scenic areas around Lac de Pierre-Percée and Lac de la Plaine.
What scenic viewpoints or natural attractions can I find along the gravel routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy stunning views of Lake Pierre-Percée, known for its unique maple leaf shape and turquoise waters. The Raven Rock offers panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding areas. You might also encounter the impressive Vieux-Pré Dam and the tranquil Lac de la Plaine.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Sainte-Pôle?
The gravel biking experience in Sainte-Pôle is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 9 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, the extensive forests, and the stunning scenery, particularly around Lac de Pierre-Percée, which contributes to the feeling of being in 'Little Canada of Lorraine'.
Are there any family-friendly activities or attractions near the gravel trails?
Beyond gravel biking, the region offers a wealth of outdoor pursuits. Near Lac de Pierre-Percée, you'll find the Pierre Percee Country Lakes - Pole Sports Nature, offering water sports like canoeing and pedal karting. For more adventure, the Adventure Parc provides tree-climbing courses and zip lines, including the Tyrolcable over Lac de Pierre-Percée. You can find more information about the Adventure Parc here.
Where can I find parking for gravel biking routes in Sainte-Pôle?
Many routes around Sainte-Pôle, especially those starting from towns like Pierre-Percée, Fenneviller, or Baccarat, will have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended starting points and parking information before your ride.
Can I combine gravel biking with other outdoor activities in the region?
Absolutely! The Sainte-Pôle area is a hub for outdoor activities. Besides gravel biking, you can enjoy hiking on numerous trails, including a popular path to the Raven Rock. Lac de Pierre-Percée is also a peaceful retreat for fishing enthusiasts, and various water sports are available at the Pierre Percee Country Lakes - Pole Sports Nature.
What are the typical lengths and elevation gains of gravel trails in Sainte-Pôle?
Gravel trails in Sainte-Pôle vary significantly in length and elevation. You can find shorter moderate routes like the Lac de la Plaine – Lake La Plaine loop from Celles-sur-Plaine at 18.8 km with 241m elevation gain, up to more challenging and longer trails such as the Poilus' Cave – Chapelotte Pass loop from Pierre-Percée, which spans 69.9 km with over 1000m of elevation gain. This variety ensures options for all fitness levels.
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