The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac des Vieilles Forges
4.2
(539)
8,664
riders
55
rides
Touring cycling around Lac des Vieilles Forges is characterized by its diverse landscapes, centered around a 150-hectare artificial lake and surrounded by a 1,000-hectare forest. The terrain features wooded shores, well-maintained trails, and varied surfaces, including paved and unpaved segments. Routes often include moderate to challenging elevation gains, providing a dynamic cycling experience within the Ardennes Regional Natural Park. This area offers a network of no traffic touring cycling routes suitable for various skill levels.
Best no traffic touring cycling…
Last updated: October 15, 2026
3.8
(4)
20
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
33
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.0
(1)
12
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
37.6km
02:27
480m
480m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1.0
(1)
8
riders
27.4km
01:58
470m
470m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Lac des Vieilles Forges
Tips from the Community
Great place with a new campsite and pool, magnificent👌👍 and around the lake. You can go hiking and mountain biking.👌🚵🥾
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Small wooden cabin on the edge of the old forge lake, ideal for picnicking, bivouacking, sheltering from bad weather or just relaxing
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Rocroi is a charming town in the French Ardennes, known for its unique star-shaped fortification structure dating back to the 16th century. By order of King Henry II, Rocroi was fortified as a strategic stronghold against Spanish influence, which later proved its worth during the Battle of Rocroi in 1643, a decisive French victory in the Thirty Years' War. The town is distinguished by its radial layout, with ten streets radiating from the central square, and, along with Palmanova in Italy, is one of the few European towns to have completely preserved this military architecture. Today, Rocroi is a protected heritage town, beloved for its historic charm, walking trails along the ramparts, and local specialties such as Rocroy beer and cheese.
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The Halle de Rocroi is a historic market building dating from the 17th century and is a central feature of the Place d’Armes in Rocroi. Originally built as a covered market hall, it served as a meeting place for merchants and citizens in this strategically located fortified town. The hall was constructed in a classical regional style, with a wooden roof and open arcades that provided protection from the elements. Although the building was modified several times over the centuries, it retained its function as a social and economic hub well into the 20th century.
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The Église Saint-Nicolas in Rocroi is a neoclassical Catholic church, consecrated in 1844 and designed by local architect Louis-Clément Labarre. Located on the Place d'Armes, the church is a striking element of Rocroi's historic cityscape. The building is distinguished by its monumental facade with a pediment, a richly decorated interior, and an impressive 53-meter-high spire, visible from afar. It is a listed historical monument.
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A fairly well-known city, but much smaller than one might imagine.
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From here you have a beautiful view of the star-shaped town of Rocroi.
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Since the Revin-Saint-Nicolas Pumped Energy Transfer station was put into operation in 1976, it has been producing clean and renewable energy. Flexibility and performance are the strengths of this station which, in two minutes, and on the decision of the Nancy control station, can make 800 MW available to the Very High Voltage network in the event of a failure of a large conventional power plant
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Lac des Vieilles Forges?
There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 12 easy, 17 moderate, and 24 difficult options to explore the beautiful Ardennes landscape.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, the area offers several easy, no-traffic routes perfect for families and beginners. A great option is the Kiosk by the lake – Lac des Vieilles Forges loop, which is just over 10 km long and features minimal elevation gain, making it a pleasant ride for all ages.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic cycling routes?
The routes primarily traverse the stunning 1,000-hectare forest surrounding the 150-hectare artificial lake. You'll experience a mix of wooded shores, well-maintained trails, and picturesque views of the water. As part of the Ardennes Regional Natural Park, the area is a protected environmental site, ensuring a rich natural setting with diverse flora and fauna.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Absolutely! Many of the no-traffic touring cycling routes around Lac des Vieilles Forges are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular choice is the Lac des Vieilles Forges loop from Club de Voile des Vieilles Forges et de Charleville-Mézières, offering continuous views of the lake and forest over its 22 km distance.
What is the best time of year to go no-traffic touring cycling in Lac des Vieilles Forges?
The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly scenic experiences. Spring brings vibrant greens, while autumn transforms the landscape with fiery colors, making it a photographer's delight. Summer is also popular, especially if you plan to combine cycling with swimming at the supervised beach.
Can I bring my dog on the no-traffic cycling trails?
Many trails in the Ardennes Regional Natural Park are dog-friendly, provided your dog is kept on a leash to protect local wildlife and ensure the safety of other users. It's always best to check specific route regulations, but generally, the forest paths are welcoming to well-behaved dogs.
Are there places to eat or drink near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, around Lac des Vieilles Forges, especially near the main activity hubs and the supervised beach, you can find cafes and refreshment points. The area is geared towards outdoor enthusiasts, so options for a post-ride snack or drink are available, particularly during peak season.
What other activities can I combine with a no-traffic cycling trip?
Beyond cycling, Lac des Vieilles Forges is a hub for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy water sports like pedal boating, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the lake. There are also excellent hiking trails, a supervised 'Blue Flag' beach for swimming, and fishing opportunities. For families, nearby attractions like Elfy Park and Ardennes, Terre d'Aventures offer additional fun.
Where can I park my car when visiting for a no-traffic touring cycling trip?
Designated parking areas are available around Lac des Vieilles Forges, particularly at popular starting points like the Club de Voile des Vieilles Forges et de Charleville-Mézières. These spots provide convenient access to the cycling routes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Lac des Vieilles Forges?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic touring cycling experience in Lac des Vieilles Forges, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the routes, the stunning lakeside and forest views, and the well-maintained paths that make for a relaxing and immersive ride away from vehicle traffic.
Are there any challenging no-traffic routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, for more experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are several difficult no-traffic routes. The Maison Espagnole – Lac des Vieilles Forges loop, for example, covers over 30 km with significant elevation gain, offering a demanding yet rewarding ride through the varied terrain.
Can I connect to longer cycling networks from Lac des Vieilles Forges?
Yes, more adventurous cyclists can connect to wider networks. The region research mentions a more challenging path that links to the Trans-Ardennes Greenway, allowing for extended touring adventures beyond the immediate lake area.
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