The first stage of this Grande Traversée du Rhône à VTT in the heart of the Beaujolais region, and already the first climbs to get into the swing of things. From the outset, mountain bikers will be immersed in the atmosphere of the vineyards and enter the realm of wine-growing terroirs with charming, renowned crus: Morgon, Régnié and many more to come...

The mountain bike route continues through the vineyards, and once you've reached Saint-Lager, you'll gain altitude to take in Mont Brouilly and its wine-growing hillsides. Then it's on steep, steady trails that you'll climb over the Beaujolais moors, before descending to Le Perréon, the finishing village of the stage.

Short but steady, this stage of the GTR by mountain bike, lightened by descents and restorative flats, reaches the Col de la Croix de Montmain. You leave the vineyards behind and enter the Pyramide forest. The descent after the pass offers fine views. After a short effort, you reach the village of Grandris, where you can enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the village.

You'll discover the green Beaujolais on trails surrounded by douglas firs, the tall pines that populate the region, before crossing the Grandes Mollières and climbing up to their eponymous "Seuil". On the way back down, Lac des Sapins gradually takes shape in front of you. After enjoying this haven of nature, head for the Col de la Croix de l'Orme via an ascent through the beautiful Saint-Appolinaire forest.