Penchard

After the gravelled lane, the road once again becomes tarred. Continue straight on, then left at the stop sign. In the town centre, make a sharp right along the town hall. The narrow road climbs steeply up to a path that snakes its way through the Penchard wood. You’ve entered the nature reserve of La Butte de Montassis. This hill was a strategic position during the Great War. The setting of a bloody battle early in the war, the site is today a peaceful 46-hectare nature reserve and paradise for birds. After a steep drop, make a right-left at the landmark illustrating a soldier from the Moroccan brigades that fought here. Pedal down the road, then turn right at the intersection. Admire the panoramic view of the plain, with its rolling fields dotted with villages. At the end of the road, continue straight on to the railway. The rough path provides a glimpse of what the soldiers had to deal with.