La FrancoVéloSuisse connects the foothills of the Vosges with the Swiss Jura through Belfort and the Allaine valley. France Vélo Tourisme presents the 55 km itinerary as two sections, from Giromagny to Belfort and onward across the border to Porrentruy.
From Giromagny to Belfort
The northern section begins at Giromagny, below the Ballon d’Alsace, and connects with Belfort via the Malsaucy area. The peninsula is a place to pause by the water and explore the outdoor activities around the leisure centre. It is also known as the site of the Eurockéennes music festival.
France Vélo Tourisme describes the link as mainly cycle paths, with the remainder on local roads. In Giromagny, its suggestions include Fort Dorsner and the mining trail. Belfort offers a contrasting urban stop: its historic centre, citadel and Bartholdi’s lion sit close to the route’s transition towards Switzerland.
Belfort to the Swiss Jura
South of Belfort, the route follows the Savoureuse before a wooded passage leads towards Bourogne and the Rhône–Rhine Canal. Here it meets EuroVelo 6, making Bourogne a useful junction for riders planning a longer journey. The FrancoVéloSuisse then heads towards Delle and the Swiss border, with the Allaine guiding the journey towards the Jura foothills.
Beyond the border, the countryside around Buix gives way to the broader Allaine valley and the approach to Porrentruy. Allow time for its old streets and castle. On the French side, Delle’s historic centre and Maison des Cariatides provide another reason to stop and explore on foot.
Choosing a ride
The complete itinerary is signed La FrancoVéloSuisse, or V64, in both directions. Riders can choose the whole Giromagny–Porrentruy route or use Belfort as a starting point for the cross-border section. France Vélo Tourisme identifies stations at Belfort and Porrentruy; its section guide also lists Meroux, Delle and Boncourt.
Expect a mixture of cycle facilities and shared roads. France Vélo Tourisme recommends the overall route for riders with some experience because parts use fairly busy roads. Its Belfort–Porrentruy guide notes road sections through built-up areas between Bourogne and Morvillars and between Buix and Porrentruy, as well as more pronounced gradients when travelling from Porrentruy towards Belfort.
Cold winter temperatures can limit riding, so check conditions before setting out. The publisher’s route planner allows a trip to be organised around either of its two sections, leaving room for a shorter outing or a longer stop in Belfort.