Following the tranquil course of the Meuse by bike is a unique experience to discover the Ardennes in a different way. On the European route La Meuse à vélo – EuroVelo 19, the Trans-Ardennes greenway offers an accessible, safe and spectacular route in the heart of preserved natural landscapes.
Between wooded valleys, charming towns and remarkable heritage sites, this cycle route invites you to take the time to explore one of the most beautiful cycling routes in northeastern France.
A European route along the Meuse
The Meuse by bike, also called EuroVelo 19, is a European cycle route going from Langres in France to Rotterdam in the Netherlands and linking the source of the river to its mouth. Over 1,000 kilometers, the cycle route crosses three countries: France, Belgium and the Netherlands. In France, it crosses four departments: Haute-Marne, Vosges, Meuse and Ardennes.
In the French Ardennes, the route follows the Trans-Ardennes greenway, laid out on the old towpath along the river. This route, almost entirely flat and safe, is particularly popular with families, cyclists and slow tourism enthusiasts.
A spectacular greenway in the heart of the Ardennes
Between Givet on the Belgian border and Mouzon, the Meuse meanders for approximately 130 km through one of the most beautiful valleys of the Ardennes massif. The greenway runs alongside the river and crosses iconic landscapes: wooded cliffs, peaceful meanders, meadows and deep forests.
Along the route, cyclists enjoy total immersion in the Ardennes countryside. Here, every turn reveals a new panorama of the valley and the river.
Charming towns and villages along the way
Cycling the Meuse is also an invitation to discover the towns and villages that dot the Meuse valley.
Points of interest along the route
Along the Trans-Ardennes greenway, several sites are worth a visit.
Lovers of spectacular scenery will particularly appreciate:
- The Monthermé loop, one of the most famous panoramas in the Ardennes
- The Four Sons of Aymonlegendary rock formation
- The Ladies of Meuse and their legends
- The Seven O'Clock Rocka striking panorama
- The Ardennes forests which surround the Meuse
- A preserved nature ideal for wildlife observation.
Between heritage, nature and local legends, every kilometer tells a story.
Services tailored to your needs thanks to the Accueil Vélo label
Throughout the route, cyclists can rely on accommodations, restaurants and bike rental shops with the Accueil Vélo label.
New: A map of the Meuse region by bike to help you plan your trip
To support cyclists, A map of the Meuse region by bike has just been published.It presents the complete route through the four French departments crossed by the cycle route: Haute-Marne, Vosges, Meuse and Ardennes.
We find there:
- the overall map of the route
- distances per stage
- nearby tourist sites
- connected cycle routes
- Information and advice for following the route (signage, rail connections)
An essential item to prepare for your next getaway along the Meuse!
F.A.Q
1. What is La Meuse à vélo?
The Meuse by bike is a European cycle route also known as EuroVelo 19. It follows the course of the Meuse River from its source in Haute-Marne to its mouth in the Netherlands. Over more than 1,000 km, the cycle route crosses France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, offering the opportunity to discover diverse landscapes encompassing nature, heritage sites, and historic towns.
2. Where does the Meuse River pass by bike in the Ardennes?
In the Ardennes, the route follows the Trans-Ardennes greenway, between Givet and Mouzon. This route runs alongside the Meuse and passes through several emblematic towns such as Fumay, Revin, Monthermé, Charleville-Mézières and Sedan.
3. What is the level of difficulty of cycling on the Meuse?
In the Ardennes, the route is very accessible: flat terrain, comfortable surface and no motorized traffic.
4. Is the Trans-Ardennes Green Way suitable for families?
Yes, the Trans-Ardennes greenway is particularly suitable for families. The route is mostly flat, safe and reserved for non-motorized transport, allowing for a peaceful ride, even with children.
5. What distance does the Meuse River represent by bicycle in the Ardennes?
The greenway covers approximately 130 kilometers in the Ardennes department. The journey can be completed in two or three days to fully enjoy the landscapes, villages, and tourist sites.
6. Is it possible to rent a bicycle along the route?
Yes. Several rental companies located in the towns along the route offer classic bikes, hybrid bikes or electric bikes and accessories for travelling the cycle route.
7. Is there a map to help plan the route?
Yes, a new map of the Meuse by bike is available. It shows the route of EuroVelo 19 through the four French departments crossed: Haute-Marne, Vosges, Meuse and Ardennes, as well as the stages, services and main tourist sites.
It is available free of charge in the tourist offices of the Ardennes and downloadable from the website ardennes.com.
8. Is it possible to cycle the Meuse River in several stages?
Yes, the route is perfectly suited for cycle touring. Numerous accommodations and services are located along the way, making it easy to organize a multi-day trip.
9. What is the best time to cycle the Meuse?
The ideal time to visit is from spring to autumn. The months of May, June, and September are particularly pleasant for enjoying the Ardennes landscapes and mild temperatures.
