Lac du Der bicycle pathTwo friends cycling on the cycle path around Lac du Der
©Véronique Montané

CYCLING AROUND THE LAKE Escape guaranteed

Experience Lac du Der in Champagne by bike. A relaxing and exotic experience around one of France’s largest lakes.

An adventure not to be missed

If there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss at Lac du Der, it’s this safe cycling itinerary, suitable for all levels. Whether you’re out with friends or family, it’s an easy, accessible circuit that can be completed at your own pace, and allows you to enjoy breathtaking views. You can discover the nooks and crannies of the lake and explore the abundance of nature in the heart of the Champagne region.

36 km of pure pleasure

The Lac du Der tour covers 36 kilometers and can be completed in half a day. However, if you’d like to take time to contemplate the scenery, watch the birds, visit the Village-Musée du Der or sunbathe on a beach, you’re in for a full day of discovery. A gourmet break can be taken with a packed picnic or in a small restaurant around the lake.

Landscapes breathtaking

The Lac du Der tour can be done in any season, offering a rare diversity of landscapes. As you make your way along the dykes, you’ll discover surprising views not only of this gigantic lake, but also of the surrounding countryside and nature. You can get close to nature by crossing the majestic oak forest that surrounds the Dervois shores to the east of the lake (Dervos meaning “oak” in Celtic), and to the west of the lake, at the Chantecoq site, a popular spot for birdwatchers and naturalists.

Finally, the lake’s appearance varies according to the season. In spring and summer, the lake is filled with sparkling water, while in autumn and winter, the lake is almost empty, revealing large mudflats and wild expanses much appreciated by the Common Cranes.

Parents love

The safe walk, beaches and picnic areas along the way.

Kids love it

Surprise a small family of Great Crested Grebes, enjoy the playgrounds, or visit the Village-Musée du Der.

Rent your bike

Don’t have a bike or can’t transport one? No problem, there are plenty of bike rental companies in and around Lac du Der offering you a multitude of solutions. Electrically-assisted bikes, mountain bikes and even child seats and trailers for your four-legged friends are all available for you and your little tribe to enjoy.

Testimonial from Fabien, Emilie and their two daughters

  • Why did you cycle around the lake?

    “We saw that the lake lent itself fully to family cycling and had planned to book a day for the ride around the lake. We took the bikes and trailers in the car, which was well loaded…”

  • How was your day?

    “Awesome! The sun was out, the lake… magnificent!
    In fact, we took our time so the girls could enjoy it.
    At the halfway point, we took a long break at the Port de Nuisement, in Sainte-Marie-du-Lac, for a picnic lunch and a swim at the beach.
    Back at the Station Nautique, our starting point, the ice cream stop was a must. Zoé, in great shape (she pedaled in her trailer…), wanted to stay on the playgrounds.
    A beautiful day, with a few sunburns and lots of great pictures!”

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