Cycling along the Maas: Belgium - France

Welcome to Maastricht, the Netherlands' oldest city. Make your own way here and take the opportunity to walk through the historic city centre, settle down at a café, or enjoy the lively atmosphere along the Maas before the cycling adventure begins the next morning.

The journey begins along the small river Jeker towards the picturesque village of Kanne. Soon you reach the locks at Lanaye before joining the well-signposted Maas cycle route. Via the pleasant small town of Visé, you continue into Belgium and Liège. The last kilometres pass the city's old industrial areas, where the history of coal and steel is still clearly present.

A longer but highly varied stage awaits today. You leave Liège via nice cycle paths and pass the impressive blast furnaces of Seraing. Those who appreciate glass art can make a stop at Val Saint-Lambert. After that, you cycle through typical Walloon villages and reach Huy, a perfect spot for lunch. The closer you get to Namur, the greener the landscape becomes, and industry is replaced by river, forests and open views.

Today's shorter stage follows the Maas southward. You pass Wépion, known for its strawberries, and the beautiful gardens of Annevoie before reaching the spectacularly situated town of Dinant. Here, the citadel and the distinctive collegiate church dominate the cityscape. Take your time to enjoy the town's cosy riverside cafés. Overnight in Dinant or Anhée.

You soon pass the elegant Freÿr castle before the route follows an old railway embankment through the green landscape. At the border, you are welcomed to France and the town of Givet, with the mighty Charlemont fortress towering above the river. After that, you continue along the Voie Verte Trans-Ardennes to the small village of Haybes. Settle down at a café and feel like you've arrived in France!

All day you follow the scenic Voie Verte Trans-Ardennes. The Maas winds through the forests of the Ardennes, and one of today's highlights is the charming town of Monthermé. In the afternoon, you reach Charleville-Mézières with its elegant historic centre and the famous Place Ducale.

The last day of cycling goes through a beautiful river landscape to Sedan. Since 2015, the Maas cycle route has run all the way here. The grand finale of the trip is Europe's largest medieval fortress, which rises above the town and offers a fascinating insight into the region's history.

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Sedan before the trip comes to an end. If you have booked our bus transfer, you will return comfortably to Maastricht together with your bike and luggage. Otherwise, you continue your journey on your own.