The best cycling routes around Ecques
4.3
(350)
2,806
riders
392
rides
Touring cycling around Ecques, located in the Pas-de-Calais department of France, is characterized by a low-lying agricultural landscape with elevations ranging from 25 to 80 meters. The region is part of the Flandre-Artois territory, featuring farming villages and gentle terrain suitable for longer distances. Proximity to natural reserves like the Romelaëre Ponds and historical towns provides varied points of interest for cyclists. This area offers a network of routes that cater to different skill levels, primarily on paved surfaces.
Best…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
32
riders
38.8km
02:50
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
riders
37.7km
02:50
360m
350m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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19
riders
50.8km
03:53
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
14
riders
50.2km
03:28
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
11
riders
56.8km
04:03
380m
380m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful cycle path along the canal, EV5.
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Thérouanne was Sigeric's 77th stop on his return from Canturbey's pilgrimage to Rome. In the 19th century, this fortified town was a French enclave within the German Empire, but was razed by Charles V in 1553. On the hill north of the town are the remains of one of the first cathedrals built in the Gothic style in France. The famous Great God of Thérouanne, which adorned one of the portals, is now housed in Saint-Omer Cathedral.
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Renescure is home to the castles of Zuthove and Philippe de Commynes. The first seduces with its elegant architecture, while the second recalls the famous chronicler who lived there. A pleasant detour for heritage lovers.
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From 1859 onwards, the permanent church was built and in 1860 the tower was built. In 1865 the choir was restored and in 1866 a new sacristy was built. This church was consecrated in 1872. The stained glass windows of this church show the coats of arms of the bishops of the former diocese of Thérouanne. They were installed in 1901-1902.
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Thérouanne is stop 77 of Sigeric on his return journey from Canterbury to Rome. The town is also located on the historic road between Boulogne and Arras (Chaussée Brunehaut). In the 16th century, this fortified town was a French enclave within the German Empire, but was razed to the ground by Charles V in 1553. On the hill to the north of the town lie the remains of one of the first cathedrals built in the Gothic style in France. The famous Grand dieu de Thérouanne, which once adorned one of the portals, is now in the cathedral of St-Omer.
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The neo-Gothic church was built before 1597 and replaced another building from the 11th century, which stood near the current chapel of Notre-Dame des Affligés. It was partially rebuilt in 1855. The tower dates from 1683. The originality of this construction lies in the fact that the bell tower is not above the entrance door, but above the choir. The door is simply formed by a pointed arch decorated with a pentacle. The first two bays of the nave are built of red brick and the last two in chalk. The four bays of the nave also have a pointed arch. The bell tower is formed by a gable wall that projects above the nave. The buttresses on this side are placed in line with the wall, creating a flat surface. The buttresses of the bell tower on the choir side are well placed on the corners
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The Église St Léger in Cléty is a Catholic church located in the heart of the village, surrounded by a cemetery1. The church is of simple design, with a single nave and a semicircular apse2. It dates from the 16th or early 17th century and has a tower built in 1662 or 16651. The church has a benitier with a basin in brown marble in Louis XV style, a 0.68 m wooden statue from the 16th century of Sainte Anne, the Virgin and the Child Jesus, and a staircase to the top of the tower where a bell can be seen - there used to be two - with a diameter of 1.10 m, cast by Pierre Voulemin in 1678 and donated by Mary, wife of Adrien de Mames (Mametz), lord of Cléty
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The Saint-Omer church. Its bell dates from 1462 and is classified as a historical monument.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ecques?
There are over 380 touring cycling routes available around Ecques, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection, from easy loops to more challenging moderate routes.
What is the typical terrain like for touring cycling near Ecques?
The terrain around Ecques is generally low-lying and agricultural, with elevations ranging from 25 to 80 meters. This means you can expect mostly gentle gradients, making it suitable for longer distances. Routes are primarily on paved surfaces, passing through farming villages and open fields.
What natural attractions can I explore while touring cycling near Ecques?
You can discover several natural attractions. The Romelaëre Ponds Nature Reserve, located about 12 km from Ecques, is a beautiful area with ponds, canals, and diverse flora and fauna. Other natural highlights include Harchelle Lake and the Pihem Ravine.
Are there any historical towns or landmarks to visit along touring cycling routes?
Yes, several historical towns and landmarks are within cycling distance. Saint-Omer, just 9 km away, offers cultural and historical interest with its Cathedral and the ruins of St. Bertin Abbey. You can also visit the impressive Boat Lift of Fontinettes in Arques, a unique piece of hydraulic engineering.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Ecques?
Absolutely. Ecques offers over 150 easy touring cycling routes, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed ride. An example is the Chapelle Beaudelle loop from Ecques, an easy 24.4 km route with minimal elevation gain.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ecques?
The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through early autumn. The low elevation and agricultural landscape mean less extreme weather, making it enjoyable for touring cyclists who prefer longer distances without steep climbs. Always check the local forecast before heading out.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Ecques?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 300 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet village roads, the scenic agricultural fields, and the proximity to natural reserves like the Romelaëre Ponds, which offer varied points of interest.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available around Ecques?
Yes, many routes around Ecques are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Popular circular routes include the Saint Martin Church – Saint-Léger, Herbelles loop from Ecques and the Étang de Rebecques loop from Heuringhem.
Is public transport available for cyclists in the Ecques area?
Ecques itself is a rural commune, but its proximity to larger towns like Saint-Omer (9 km away) suggests potential connections. Saint-Omer has a train station (Saint-Omer station), which may offer options for transporting bicycles, depending on the service. It's advisable to check specific train or bus operator policies regarding bikes.
Where can I find parking for my touring cycling trip in Ecques?
As a rural area, Ecques and its surrounding villages typically offer public parking spaces, especially near town centers or local amenities. For specific routes, you can often find parking near the starting points in villages like Ecques or Heuringhem. Always ensure you park responsibly and respect local regulations.
What is the average length and duration of touring cycling routes in Ecques?
The routes vary, but many popular touring cycling routes around Ecques range from 25 km to 50 km in length. For example, the Saint-Léger, Herbelles loop from Ecques is 29.5 km and takes about 2 hours 13 minutes, while the Saint Martin Church – Étang de Rebecques loop from Heuringhem is 26.2 km.
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