Getting your feet wet in the Land of the Three Borders

Let's set off on the first leg of your cycling trip along the Voie Bleue! From Sierck-les-Bains to Thionville, this warm-up will delight heritage and wine lovers.

Your adventure begins in Apach, at the crossroads of the 3 borders (French, Luxembourg and German)! Get on your bike: your first turns of the wheel will soon take you to Sierck-les-Bains. Here, the 11th-century remains of the castle of the Dukes of Lorraine stand on a rocky outcrop. Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere by visiting the site, which was one of the favourite residences of the Dukes of Lorraine, and don't miss the panoramic view over the Moselle valley below.

And if you're a lover of old stones, take advantage of your stay in Moselle to make a diversion to the Château de Malbrouck in Manderen or the medieval town of Rodemack, voted one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. These are not-to-be-missed cultural and historical stops just a few kilometres from the Voie Bleue!

Next, leave Sierck-les-Bains and follow the meandering Moselle. As you head towards Contz-les-Bains, the vineyards come into view and the Stromberg hill dominates the landscape. Pinot noir, pinot gris or auxerrois, the local AOC Moselle grape varieties will reveal all their flavours!

The Voie Bleue route follows the winding course of the Moselle and passes through typical Lorraine villages. Continue on to the Kœnigsmacker wide-gauge lock, which opened up the Moselle to Rhine traffic. A final refreshing stop at the Basse-Ham leisure centre will delight cyclists in search of water-based activities.

In its green setting, Thionville marks the end of this first stage. Stroll through the historic centre and push open the doors of the Tour aux Puces museum. This former dungeon of the castle of the Counts of Luxembourg takes its original name from a legend: a princess met her doom there, devoured by fleas... Inside, retrace the course of history in the various themed rooms.