Greenway of the saltworks (Arc et Senans - Salins les bains)
Description
The Salines Green Way, linking Arc-et-Senans to Salins-les-Bains, is a captivating 30-kilometer route that immerses you in the heart of the history and nature of Franche-Comté.
This section, following a former railway line, is a journey through varied landscapes, from lush forests and verdant meadows to mountains in the background. The route is ideal for cyclists of all levels, offering a peaceful and safe ride.
Along the way, you will discover two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the majestic Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, a masterpiece of industrial architecture, and the Saltworks of Salins-les-Bains, witnesses to a rich salt-making past.
This route, between heritage and nature, offers a unique experience where industrial history blends harmoniously with the wild beauty of the landscapes, for an unforgettable cycling adventure.
Map of the Greenway of the saltworks (Arc et Senans - Salins les bains)
The Salines Green Way is an ideal cycle path for a family outing. This cycle route connects the EuroVelo 6 to two major tourist sites, the saltworks of Arc-et-Senans and Salins-les-Bains.
At approximately 40 kilometers, it can be covered in a day without major difficulties. To begin this adventure, it is recommended to consult the map of the Salines Green Way to familiarize yourself with the route.
The cycle path begins in Rans, where you can easily find a gîte, hotel, campsite, or bed and breakfast for the night before setting off on the greenway. The first part of the path is a dedicated greenway that runs alongside the RD31 departmental road. This section is safe and separate from the road, allowing for a peaceful ride. You'll cross the magnificent Chaux Forest, populated with oaks, beeches, hornbeams, and birches. Children will be delighted to spot wild boar, red deer, and roe deer in their natural habitat.
Upon arriving in Arc-et-Senans, you'll join the main road leading to the Royal Saltworks. This impressive structure is well worth a visit, with its Salt Museum, guided tours, and exhibitions. After this cultural experience, you'll rejoin the cycle path that follows a bend in the Loue River, offering magnificent views of the waterway. The village of Champagne-sur-Loue is passed through before reaching Port-Lesney.
Leaving the town, the cycle path runs alongside the departmental road, then the busy former National Route 83. Despite the road environment, the path is very well laid out, separated from the road by grass and a ditch. The scenery remains pleasant and safe. Upon reaching Mouchard, it's possible to leave the greenway to go to the train station or into town. For those who wish to continue their journey, the Voie des Salines continues along the departmental road RD 472. Although this section has a few narrow sections, safety is guaranteed.
After passing under a former railway line, you reach a new section of the greenway, this time wide and separated from the road. The scenery is breathtaking, allowing you to admire the surrounding nature in complete tranquility. The route takes a different turn as it joins the small departmental road that climbs to Aiglepierre. This climb is the only real challenge on the greenway. Once at the top, you are rewarded with a ride through a charming village and a stunning view of Mont Poupet.
Heading down towards Marnoz, you take an unpaved path that offers a pleasant descent. After passing through the village, you reach a smooth, flat departmental road that joins the RD 472. From there, the greenway resumes and follows the old railway line in the Furieuse valley. After crossing a viaduct and a small tunnel, the greenway narrows slightly as it approaches Salins-les-Bains.
Unfortunately, there are no more signs from this point, but it is possible to follow the Chemin des Margiliens to access the city centre.
Salins-les-Bains offers many accommodations, such as cottages, hotels, campsites and bed and breakfasts, for those who wish to extend their stay and explore more of the region.