South from Metz, La Voie Bleue alternates between the Moselle and a series of lakes before reaching Jouy-aux-Arches and its Roman aqueduct. Take in the Rochers de la Fraze boulders, as well as the vine-covered slopes at Ancy-Dornot. Arnaville marks your arrival in the département (or French county) of Meurthe-et-Moselle. From Pagny-sur-Moselle, the route runs peacefully parallel to the Canal Latéral à la Moselle, up to Pont-à-Mousson. This town boasts fine architectural treasures, such as its triangular square, Place Duroc, and the magnificent Prémontrés Abbey.

Along this La Voie Bleue stage, you reach the confluence of the Moselle and Meurthe Rivers, the latter leading you to the gates of the historic ducal town of Nancy. This city is a gem at which to stop, with its three splendid 18th-century squares listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the most famous, Place Stanislas. However, there is another option – at Custines, you can embark on a route bypassing Nancy, taking you via the Boucle de la Moselle, enabling you to discover the AOC des Côtes de Toul vineyards and the little medieval town of Liverdun.