Toulon-sur-Arroux / Bourbon-Lancy

The GTMC Gravel here alternates between stretches on paths and on quiet country roads. There are many points from which you can admire the Bocage Bourbonnais, with its hedge-divided fields. Don’t miss the short detour by bike to the top of Mont Dardon, at an altitude of 506m – in very clear conditions, you may even spot the summit of the iconic Mont Blanc, a vast distance away! Take a refreshing break at Montperroux Lake, then head on to the Signal du Mont and its tower-cum-belvedere, 10m in height. Complete this stage with a long descent to Bourbon-Lancy, a thermal spa resort with a medieval heart, including the Quartier de l’Horloge, with its memorable belfry.

On this stage, you branch off from the mountain bike route in several spots in order to avoid technical difficulties. 
In fact, leaving Toulon sur Arroux, you quickly leave the mountain-biking trail to join a minor road for a time, before rejoining the mountain-biking route up to the village of Uxeau.
You avoid the difficulties of crossing the forest around the Signal de Mont by going along the road, but with the option of riding to the Signal on a little detour to get there and back.
Overall, this is a hilly stage involving some good climbs but it is generally easy, without any particular technical difficulties for gravel bikes.