La Voie Bleue is
Cycle Route of the Year 2026

Utrecht, 13 February 2026

La Voie Bleue in France has been named Cycle Route of the Year 2026. The cycling jury announced the award on the opening day of the Fiets en Wandelbeurs (Cycling and Hiking Fair) at Jaarbeurs Utrecht.

The route stretches from the tri-border point of Germany, Luxembourg and France to Lyon, covering 730 kilometres. The name Voie Bleue (“blue way”) refers to the waterways the route follows: the Moselle, the Canal des Vosges and the Saône. Much of the itinerary runs along former towpaths and, for the greater part, consists of traffic-free cycle paths. The result is a relaxed and accessible route, suitable for cyclists of all ages.

Rich variety and magnificent cities

The jury — Bert Sitters, Mirre Oost and Jessica de Korte — praised the French route for its diversity and quality. “La Voie Bleue treats cyclists to a wide range of French landscapes and, in Burgundy, to Grand Cru-level wines. Highlights along the way include the beautiful cities of Metz and Nancy, both perfectly suited to exploring by bike. At the journey’s end lies the charming city of Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France. Between the cities, tranquillity and open space prevail. Almost every village has its own story,” the jury commented.

Multiple strengths

The jury also highlighted the excellent signposting with comprehensive information panels, attractive campsites along the route, good rail connections — allowing bicycles on board — and a clear, user-friendly website. In addition, La Voie Bleue connects seamlessly with other major cycling routes. At the starting point, it links with the German Mosel Radweg and EuroVelo 5 from Brussels. In Lyon, cyclists can continue south along the ViaRhôna towards the Mediterranean, with the scenic alternative of La Dolce Via through the Ardèche.

La Voie Bleue was selected from three nominees; the other two were La Vélidéale in France and Ode aan het Landschap in the Achterhoek region of the Netherlands. It succeeds Sweden’s Göta Canalleden, Cycle Route of the Year 2025.

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