In forest
15,73 Km
1 h 02 min
I begin / Family
15,73 km cycling route from Ranchot to Arc-et-Senans
Leaving from Ranchot and crossing Chaux Forest, making the return trip between the Doubs and Loue rivers to see the Saline Royale at Arc-et-Senans is really worth the effort. These neo-classical saltworks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982, prove magnificent both for their architecture and setting, a gem not to be missed on EuroVelo 6. A further detour is highly recommended if your curiosity is pricked by the history of “white gold” (a nickname for salt); ride along the Voie des Salines to Salins-les-Bains to visit the historic Grande Saline saltworks (also UNESCO listed) and the Musée du Sel. So there’s a salty tang to this stage, even if the easy cycling doesn’t work up a sweat!
Elevation of the stage
55 m 81 m
Waytypes of the stage
Cycle path: 10,30 km By road: 5,43 km
Surface of the stage
Smooth: 12,01 km Unknown: 3,72 km
The route
From Ranchot, follow the signs marked Voie des Salines (VDS), towards Rans. Leaving Rans, a fine cycle track runs beside the D31 road, crossing through the forest. There are some slopes, but they are modest. Reaching the end of the cycle track, signposting indicates the way to the Saline Royale to the right.
It’s possible to continue up to the town of Salins-les-Bains via the Voie des Salines route, the way here shared with the Tour du Jura loisirs route.
SNCF station
Ranchot
Dont' miss
Ranchot: there are several restaurant terraces where you can eat beside the canal
Arc-et-Senans: La Saline royale UNESCO World Heritage Site
Beyond the route :
Salins-les-Bains : La Grande Saline reached via the Voie des Salines from Arc-et-Senans
Travellers’ reviews