4.3
(41)
248
hikers
25
hikes
Hiking around Villers-Plouich offers an opportunity to explore the rural landscapes of the Nord department in France. The region is characterized by vast expanses of meadows, farmland, and small woods, providing a tranquil environment for walkers. Hikers can expect to traverse field paths, with the broader department featuring varied terrains including peat bogs, plateaus, plains, and valleys.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.4
(5)
34
hikers
12.7km
03:20
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.0
(1)
10
hikers
8.20km
02:06
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
hikers
8.07km
02:05
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
5
hikers
16.8km
04:25
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This Cistercian abbey was founded in 1132 by Bernard of Clairvaux and grew into a large and influential community within a century. Royal armies camped there as in a fortress and Charles V signed peace with Henry II in 1556. In addition to the sick and outcasts, travellers and pilgrims also found shelter in the hospital. The largest abbey church in Europe stood here with an extraordinary length of 135 metres. On feast days, 3000 meals were provided to the needy in the wide area. After the French Revolution, it was declared national property and an inglorious end followed as an open-air quarry. Now, restored parts remain, such as the abbot's palace with the dormitories and monks' halls with the chapter house next to it. The 7-hectare abbey park is being restored to its former glory. Open March to November (Tue-Sat 10am-12pm and 2pm-5.30pm, Sun 3pm-6.30pm, closed Mondays).
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Parts of this gigantic abbey are interesting to visit. The church has disappeared but must have been enormous. Beautiful garden and shop with, among other things, abbey beer.
1
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Vaucelles Abbey is a former monastery of Cistercian monks. Founded in 1131 by Saint Bernard himself.
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Vue of the canal as you ride over the top.
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Magnificent paved area in superb condition. It is uphill coming from Lesdain and is about 1000m long.
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Pretty well rolling gravel greenway.
1
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Splendid view, maximum astonishment when arriving there! 😍
2
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The region around Villers-Plouich is characterized by picturesque rural scenery, including vast expanses of meadows, farmland, and small woods. Hikers will primarily traverse field paths, offering a tranquil environment. The broader Nord department also features varied terrains such as peat bogs, plateaus, plains, and valleys, providing diverse hiking experiences.
There are nearly 30 hiking trails around Villers-Plouich documented on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult options.
Yes, many routes in the area are circular. For example, you can explore the Bois de Talma loop from Masnières, which is a moderate 8.2 km path. Another option is the Étang Masset loop from Marcoing, an 8.1 km trail through varied rural scenery.
Hiking routes in Villers-Plouich range from easy to difficult. There are 11 easy trails, 17 moderate trails, and 1 difficult trail, ensuring options for all experience levels.
The routes in Villers-Plouich are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.25 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet rural landscapes, well-maintained field paths, and the opportunity to explore historical sites like the Abbey of Vaucelles.
Yes, several hiking routes incorporate historical sites. The Vaucelles Abbey – Abbaye de Vaucelles loop from Bantouzelle, for instance, passes by the historical Abbey of Vaucelles. Other notable attractions in the vicinity include Esnes Castle and the Canadian Bourlon Wood Memorial.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the Vaucelles Abbey loop from Bantouzelle is a difficult 22.5 km trail. This route offers an extended exploration of the area's landscapes and historical elements.
Beyond the immediate rural landscapes, the broader region offers significant natural reserves. These include the Réserve naturelle des Marais d'Isle and the Réserve naturelle régionale du Marais de Wagnonville, which are within a reasonable distance and provide diverse ecosystems and wetlands. The Forest of Mormal, the largest forest in the region, is also accessible for extended nature exploration.
Yes, you can hike through several wooded areas. The Bois de Talma loop from Masnières takes you through the Bois de Talma (Talma Wood). Another option is the Bois de Gramont loop from Bantouzelle, offering a moderate 13.3 km hike through woodland scenery.
The region's rural landscapes, meadows, and woods are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to autumn, when the weather is mild and the paths are dry. However, the tranquil environment can be appreciated year-round, with winter walks offering a different, quieter perspective.
While not explicitly detailed in every route, walks starting from villages like Masnières can reveal glimpses of the area's industrial past. These paths often follow old canals and railway lines, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical context.


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