With its dense forests, sheer cliffs and glittering rivers, the French Ardennes lend themselves naturally to exploration on two wheels. This is a region where gentle towpaths run alongside waterways and steeper climbs lead into wooded hills, offering a wide range of cycling experiences. Whether you ride for pleasure or performance, there’s a route to suit every pace. The great classic - and for many the undisputed favourite - is the Meuse by Bike. But the Trans-Semoysienne and the Lesse and Semois cycle route are equally rewarding, lesser-known alternatives. Here are five of the most memorable ways to cycle through the French Ardennes.
The Meuse by Bike (EuroVelo 19): a classic shaped by the river
Ardennes, France
Few routes capture the spirit of the region quite like the Meuse by Bike, part of the EuroVelo 19 network. Following the river from its mouth in Hoek van Holland to its source in Langres, this long-distance route spans more than 1,000 kilometres. The section that winds through the French Ardennes is widely considered the highlight, where wooded hills, legendary rock formations and the constant presence of the Meuse create a particularly scenic ride.
For cyclists drawn to long distances, this route is an essential experience. And even if time allows only a short section, the Trans-Ardennes Greenway offers a concentrated taste of what makes this journey so special - the same river, framed by unspoilt landscapes and punctuated by characterful towns and villages.
The Trans-Ardennes Greenway: the heart of the Meuse by Bike
Voie Verte Trans-Ardennes, France
Riding the Meuse by Bike through the Ardennes means following the Trans-Ardennes Greenway, the section of EuroVelo 19 that crosses the region. Stretching for around 130 kilometres, it begins in Givet, just below the Belgian border, and ends in the picturesque town of Mouzon, where the Ardennes gradually give way to open plains.
Along the route, cyclists pass through Charleville-Mézières, the riverside village of Monthermé - often described as the “pearl of the Meuse” - and the fortified town of Sedan, making cultural detours an easy and enjoyable addition to the ride. The path itself follows a former towpath, fully paved, almost entirely flat and closed to motor traffic. As a result, the Trans-Ardennes Greenway is particularly well suited to families and leisure cyclists, offering stress-free riding and uninterrupted immersion in nature.
The South Ardennes Greenway: cycling at a gentler pace
Voie Verte Sud-Ardennes - Rethel, Quai Malmy, Rethel, France
Connecting seamlessly with the Trans-Ardennes Greenway, the South Ardennes Greenway explores the quieter southern reaches of the region. Starting in Pont-à-Bar, this 110-kilometre route follows the Canal des Ardennes, a waterway known for its long sequence of locks and peaceful atmosphere.
With minimal car traffic, the route is especially appealing for families. What truly sets it apart, however, is the number of rewarding detours just a short distance from the cycle path. These include the imposing Château de Sedan, the largest fortress in Europe, as well as the Voncq viewpoint, once frequented by Arthur Rimbaud. On warmer days, Lake Bairon offers a refreshing pause, its protected waters providing a haven for more than 150 bird species. Along this route, cycling blends seamlessly with discovery.
Cycling on the new Voie Verte Sud Ardennes cycling route: 7 surprising stages not to be missed
Rivers have a way of shaping journeys, and cycling alongside them often feels effortless. The Lesse and Semois cycle route embraces this idea fully, tracing a 178-kilometre loop through both the French and Belgian Ardennes. It’s a route that crosses borders with ease, weaving between limestone hills, forested slopes and winding valleys.
As the ride unfolds, one scenic panorama follows another, with historic towns such as Givet, Beauraing, Monthermé and Fumay punctuating the landscape. For a relaxed experience, the route is best divided into five stages, allowing time for unhurried riding and regular breaks. This is an ideal choice for a short cycling holiday immersed in nature, or even a first bikepacking adventure in France, with campsites conveniently spaced along the way.
The Trans-Semoysienne: an easy-going ride for all ages
The Trans-Semoysienne: an easy-going ride for all ages
For those short on time, or travelling with children, the Trans-Semoysienne offers a gentle introduction to cycling in the Ardennes. Covering around 20 kilometres with very little elevation gain, this route follows the meanders of the Semois and captures some of the most scenic sections of the longer Lesse and Semois circuit.
Built along a former railway line between Monthermé and Les Hautes Rivières, the route is largely paved and closed to car traffic. Historic bridges - including the 18th-century Saint-Lambert Bridge - add character, while the villages along the way offer plenty of opportunities to stop for lunch, a drink or a well-earned ice cream. There are even spots where you can cool off with a swim in the river, making this an ideal option for a relaxed family day out
By Yvonne Versteegh
Vertaler en contentmaker voor France.fr. Ontdekt Frankrijk het liefst op haar hardloopschoenen.
