The best road cycling routes around Liessies
4.4
(59)
2,209
riders
254
rides
Road cycling routes around Liessies traverse the distinctive landscapes of the Avesnois natural region in Nord, France. This area, often called the "little Switzerland of the North," features a hilly bocage landscape of meadows and hedgerows, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Extensive forests, such as the Bois de l'Abbé, cover a significant portion of the municipality, offering verdant backdrops. The Helpe Majeure River flows through Liessies, adding to the natural charm, while the Parc de l'Abbaye de Liessies includes ponds…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
3.5
(4)
160
riders
40.0km
02:09
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
18
riders
96.6km
04:41
560m
560m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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4.7
(3)
10
riders
64.2km
02:52
510m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
13
riders
47.4km
02:05
420m
410m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
57.1km
03:00
540m
540m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The Plate-Taille Dam is located in southern Belgium in Wallonia, on the border of the provinces of Namur and Hainaut. The dam is situated near the villages of Froidchapelle and Cerfontaine and forms the central element of the Lacs de l’Eau d’Heure lake district, the largest artificial lake complex in the country. This area covers approximately 1800 hectares and consists of several interconnected lakes that together form a unique landscape of open water, wooded hills, and extensive recreational zones. Due to its location between the Ardennes and the Fagne, the area has a varied and gently rolling terrain. The origin of the dam dates back to the 1970s when Belgium faced water management problems. The Sambre River, an important waterway for industry and shipping, experienced highly fluctuating water levels. During dry periods, the water level dropped too low, which had economic consequences. To solve this problem, an ambitious project was launched, including the construction of a series of dams on the Eau d’Heure River and its tributaries. The construction of the Plate-Taille dam began around 1974 and was completed in 1981. As a result of its construction, five lakes were created: * Plate Taille (the largest and deepest) * Eau d’Heure * Falemprise * Ry Jaune * Féronval The construction brought about a major change for the region. Certain areas were submerged, and residents had to relocate. At the same time, this project laid the foundation for a new economic model based on tourism and recreation. The Plate-Taille dam is the largest dam in Belgium and an impressive example of modern hydraulic engineering. The Plate Taille lake itself has a surface area of approximately 350 hectares and is the largest and deepest lake in Belgium. The dam holds back an enormous mass of water and literally forms the heart of the entire lake district. One of the dam's main functions is energy generation through a pumped-storage power plant. * Capacity: ± 140 megawatts * Number of turbines: 4 (reversible) * Type: pumped-storage power plant System Operation The system operates on a clever principle: * During low energy demand, water is pumped to a higher reservoir. * During high energy demand, the water flows back down through turbines, generating electricity. This makes the plant particularly valuable for stabilizing the electricity grid, especially in combination with renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Around the dam lies a surprisingly rich nature reserve. The combination of water, forests, and open plains ensures great biodiversity. The landscape is characterized by: * Dense deciduous and coniferous forests * Open grasslands * Reed beds along the banks * Quiet bays and small islands Animals found here include: * Roe deer * Foxes * Waterfowl such as grebes and cormorants * Birds of prey The creation of the lakes has led to new ecosystems where flora and fauna have adapted to the water-rich environment. For someone who enjoys long and challenging hikes, like myself, this area is ideal, and you can easily create routes of several hours here without much crowds. 🚴♂️ Cycling and Recreation Besides hiking, the area is also popular with: * Road cyclists (hilly terrain) * Mountain bikers * Families (flat cycling paths around the lakes) There are well-maintained cycling routes that connect the entire lake district. 🚤 Water Sports and Activities The Lacs de l’Eau d’Heure are the center for water sports in Belgium. Possibilities: * Sailing * Kayaking * Windsurfing * Diving (in certain zones) * Swimming Motorized water sports are permitted to a limited extent, which contributes to a relatively calm and natural atmosphere. 🧭 Tourist Facilities The area is highly developed for visitors without losing its natural charm. Key attractions: * Skywalk Plate-Taille – a panoramic tower with views over the entire area * Natura Parc L’Eau d’Heure – adventure park with climbing routes and zipline * Marinas and beach areas * Holiday parks and campsites This makes the area suitable for both day trips and longer stays.
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beautiful walk to do with the family
1
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Plenty of water sports to enjoy all around. Several cycling trails for all levels and bikes.
2
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Swimming area where a few brave souls took to the water for the New Year
1
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You cycle along the picturesque river Sambre. This is a quiet and picturesque river that flows through the south of Belgium and plays an important role in the Wallonia region. It rises in the French Ardennes and winds through cities such as Charleroi, Namur and Philippeville, before flowing into the Meuse.
0
1
Beautiful lake, a trip is worth it.
1
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Interesting and worth seeing old town of Chimay.
3
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Several art objects along the cycle path.
4
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Liessies?
Liessies is situated in the Avesnois natural region, often called the "little Switzerland of the North." You can expect a varied terrain characterized by hilly bocage landscapes of meadows and hedgerows, extensive forests like the Bois de l'Abbé, and the charming Helpe Majeure River. The area offers both smooth, dedicated cycling paths, such as sections of the EuroVelo 3, and routes with varied elevation through rolling hills.
Are there many road cycling routes available in Liessies?
Yes, Liessies offers a wide selection for road cyclists. There are over 240 road cycling routes in the area, catering to various skill levels. This includes 56 easy routes, 185 moderate routes, and 7 more challenging options.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while cycling in Liessies?
While cycling, you can explore the beautiful Parc de l'Abbaye de Liessies, which features ponds, meadows, and ancient hydraulic systems. The Voie verte de l'Avesnois, part of the EuroVelo 3, offers a blend of historical industrial elements and traditional hedgerow fields. You might also pass by the Val Joly Tourist Resort and enjoy views of the Étang de la Vieille Forge.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling options in Liessies?
The Avesnois Greenway (Voie Verte de l'Avesnois) is an excellent choice for families. It frequently uses former railway lines, providing smooth, compacted tracks or asphalt surfaces that are ideal for a comfortable and safe cycling environment away from vehicular traffic. This makes it suitable for various ages and abilities.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Liessies?
The region's extensive greenery and rolling hills are particularly enjoyable during the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. The smooth surfaces of the greenway make cycling accessible for much of the year, though winter conditions might require more caution.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Liessies?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops. For example, the Sambre Valley – Erquelinnes Marina loop from Liessies is a popular 95 km circular route. Another option is the Val-Joly Lake Loop – Eppe-Sauvage Village Square loop from Willies, which is a moderate 64 km path.
What do other road cyclists think about the routes in Liessies?
The road cycling routes in Liessies are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 2,200 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the picturesque landscapes and well-maintained paths.
Can I find routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging ride?
While the region is known for its rolling hills, you can certainly find routes with notable elevation gain. For instance, the Eau d'Heure Lakes – Lake Plate Taille loop from Willies features over 540 meters of elevation gain over its 57 km distance, offering a good challenge.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the cycling routes?
Absolutely. The area is rich in heritage. You can combine your rides with cultural discoveries, passing by historical sites such as ancient churches, like the Church of Liessies, and remnants of Liessies Abbey. Nearby towns also feature museums, and you might encounter landmarks like the Château de Trélon.
What is the Avesnois Greenway and how does it relate to road cycling in Liessies?
The Avesnois Greenway (Voie Verte de l'Avesnois) is a significant asset for cyclists in the region. It's a section of the EuroVelo 3, a major European cycle route. This dedicated path, often built on former railway lines, provides smooth, asphalted surfaces ideal for road cycling, allowing you to enjoy the scenery away from vehicular traffic. You can find more information about this route on France Vélo Tourisme.
Are there any routes that cross into Belgium from Liessies?
Yes, some routes in the Liessies area extend into neighboring Belgium, offering international cycling experiences. For example, the Eppe-Sauvage Village Square – Chimay loop from Willies is a 46 km route that leads towards Chimay in Belgium, allowing you to explore cross-border landscapes.
Where can I find information about the Parc de l'Abbaye de Liessies?
The Parc de l'Abbaye de Liessies is a central natural attraction, featuring paths, meadows, and ponds. It's classified as a Natura 2000 site, rich in flora and fauna. For more detailed information about the park, you can visit the Tourisme Avesnois website.
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