Saulieu / Montsauche-les-Settons

At the start of this stage, you’re plunged back to the start of the 20th century, the gravel route following the former rail line that linked Saulieu to Corbigny via the slow Le Tacot train. Then enjoy a pleasant stretch dotted with hamlets set between patchworks of fields and small portions of hardwood forest. The route also takes you beside Chamboux Lake, the youngest of the Morvan’s great lakes. Stop to observe the many aquatic birds here, including kingfishers, crested grebes and grey herons. Get back on your bike to reach the edge of Settons Lake, cycling via an easy-rolling path, the highlight of this GTMC stage.

This is a short stage, the shifts in altitude spread out, making it very manageable and enjoyable on gravel bike. Also, this stage’s low level of difficulty allows you to focus more on the landscapes and the discoveries to be made along the way.
Between Saulieu and Alligny-en-Morvan, you ride along tracks and some beautiful paths beside the Chamboux lakes, up to the Lac de Settons. Take care on the parts leading you along bridges made of wooden planks, which can become slippery when wet.