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Walking, cycling, breathing Lac du Der close to nature

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With its 4,800-hectare lake, 5,000 hectares of forest, 250 km of signposted footpaths and almost 100 km of greenways, Lac du Der is undoubtedly the ideal place to recharge your batteries and go green in Champagne. Nestled between the Marne and Haute-Marne rivers, Lac du Der is a veritable nature sanctuary. A Natura 2000 area, it is also one of the Ramsar sites of the Champagne wetlands. The flora and fauna that inhabit the lake and its shores, as well as the surrounding forests and ponds, offer a biodiversity that is unique in the Grand Est region. You can observe and appreciate this unspoilt natural environment in the heart of the Champagne region on a walk, a stroll around Lac du Der or a bike ride.

Ecotourism at Lac du Der an adventure to live

Would you like to organize an environmentally-friendly holiday in Champagne? A true paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Lac du Der offers a range of sustainable experiences.

The best way to discover this precious natural heritage is by walking or cycling. Economical and carbon-free, they also have the advantage of taking you to isolated spots with spectacular landscapes inhabited by numerous plant and animal species. Indeed, what better way to explore the biomes of the Champagne bocage than on a beautiful hike in Haute-Marne or a cycling trip in Champagne, on cycle paths or mountain bike trails. From its forested expanses to its wetlands and small country villages, Lac du Der offers a multitude of possibilities for walking, cycling and breathing deeply.

Take a look at our top suggestions, including not-to-be-missed walks, the unmissable bicycle tour of the lake, and our outdoor escape games for fun with friends and family.

Other eco-responsible activities in Champagne

After a walk or bike ride, why not try a water-based getaway? Several of our partners offer activities that limit their environmental impact, giving you the chance to navigate Lac du Der using non-polluting craft such as electric boats, canoes, stand-up paddles or pedalos. These means of navigation are perfect for enjoying the waters of the lake in complete peace of mind.

If you’re not too keen on the sea, you can continue your adventures on dry land. The region’s nature guides and birdwatchers will take you as close as possible to the local ecosystem, helping you to understand and respect it. You can also visit the Musée du Der village, a playful and educational eco-museum that showcases both local history and natural heritage through its themed gardens. Then, in a more unusual vein, we suggest a trip in an e-swincar, an atypical 100% electric vehicle!

Last but not least, for lovers of wine tourism, Champagne and good food, several winegrowers and producers have signed up to an environmental approach and have been awarded the sustainable viticulture label. Don’t hesitate to go and meet them to visit a Champagne cellar or taste local products and find out more about their production methods.

Getaways 100% slow tourism

Slow tourism is the art of traveling while taking one’s time, fully immersing oneself in the surrounding nature and rich heritage. The cycle paths and cycle routes of Lac du Der and the surrounding region allow you to rethink the way you travel, organize your stay and connect fully with our tourist destination. Travelling with your bike in Champagne, you can take your time to explore the treasures of Lac du Der, such as its timber-framed heritage, unspoilt natural areas, art workshops and local producers.

Find out more about the main cycle routes to prepare your getaway to Lac du Der.

De Vitry-le-François au Lac du Der
22.1km
  • 1h 15minEasy
De Vitry-le-François au Lac du Der
De Saint-Dizier au Lac du Der
13.3km
  • 40minVery easy
De Saint-Dizier au Lac du Der
Du Lac du Der à Montier-en-Der
10.4km
  • 30minVery easy
Du Lac du Der à Montier-en-Der
De Vitry-le-François à Saint-Dizier
31.0km
  • 1h 45minEasy
De Vitry-le-François à Saint-Dizier

Eco-labelled accommodation at Lac du Der

Would you like to spend your vacation in Champagne in an eco-tourism-labeled accommodation? Why not stop off at Lac du Der and take advantage of a selection of comfortable or unusual accommodations. Whether you’re bringing friends and family together, or enjoying a little bubble of oxygen for your loved ones, there are solutions to help you plan and organize your trip in the most sustainable way possible: large-capacity gîtes, wooden cabins, gypsy caravans…

SAS Le Deroscope
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