The best cycling routes around Douvrin

There are over 25 touring cycling routes around Douvrin, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars.

The cycling routes around Douvrin are predominantly flat, following tranquil canal towpaths and greenways like those along the Canal d'Aire and Canal de la Deûle. However, you can also find unique landscapes featuring re-naturalized spoil tips, which are former mining waste heaps that offer gentle ascents and panoramic views of the surrounding plains.

Yes, Douvrin offers several easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Cuinchy Fishing Pond – Next to the towpath loop from La Bassée is an easy 19.9 km (12.4 miles) route that takes you along the towpath, offering a relaxed journey. The flat canal paths are generally traffic-free and suitable for all skill levels.

While cycling, you can explore various points of interest. The routes often follow the scenic Canal de la Deûle. You might also encounter historical sites like the Hill 70 Canadian Memorial or the Calvary of Captain Paul Adrian Kennedy. For unique natural features, look out for the re-naturalized spoil tips, such as the Loos-en-Gohelle slag heap, which offer elevated views.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Douvrin are designed as loops. A popular option is the Deûle Canal – Deûle Canal loop from La Bassée, a 38 km (23.6 miles) route that follows the tranquil canal towpaths. Another great circular route is the Canal de la Deûle – Marsh Pond loop from La Bassée, which explores sections of the canal and passes by a marsh pond.

Absolutely. Douvrin is well-integrated into the broader regional and European cycling networks. The area is crossed by major EuroVelo routes, including EuroVelo 5 (Via Romea Francigena), which allows cyclists to embark on longer journeys directly from or through Douvrin, connecting to a rich tapestry of European history and culture.

The best time for touring cycling in Douvrin is generally from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, making for comfortable riding conditions along the canal paths and greenways. The natural landscapes are also at their most vibrant.

Yes, the re-naturalized spoil tips in the region provide excellent scenic viewpoints. For instance, the Beuvry Water Sports Center – Verquigneul spoil tip loop from La Bassée takes you past the Verquigneul spoil tip, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and the mining basin. You can also find a dedicated View of the mining basin and the hills of Artois highlight.

'Voies vertes' are greenways or traffic-free paths, often repurposed from former railway lines or canal towpaths, ideal for cyclists and walkers. Douvrin benefits from being part of a network of such paths, including the Chemin des Cavaliers, a former railway line now used as a multi-use path. These provide safe and scenic routes through the region's natural and historical settings.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil canal towpaths, the flat and accessible terrain suitable for all levels, and the unique blend of natural beauty with the region's industrial heritage, particularly the re-naturalized spoil tips offering great views.

Yes, some routes offer varied scenery including natural water features. The Canal de la Deûle – Marsh Pond loop from La Bassée specifically passes by a marsh pond, providing opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy a different natural environment alongside the canal.

Yes, you can explore the Harnes Lagoons on a touring cycling route. The Harnes Lagoons – Canal de la Deûle loop from La Bassée is a moderate 46.8 km (29.1 miles) trail that takes you through this area, combining the lagoons with sections along the Canal de la Deûle for a diverse ride.