The best cycling routes around Maroilles

Maroilles offers a diverse selection of touring cycling routes, with over 30 options available. These range from easy rides to more challenging paths, ensuring there's something for every fitness level. Specifically, you'll find 21 easy routes, 8 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route.

The touring cycling routes in Maroilles primarily traverse the picturesque Avesnois bocage, characterized by small fields, hedges, and woodlands. Many paths follow the serene Sambre river and its towpaths, or the gentle banks of the River Helpe Mineure. You can also expect to cycle through alternating villages and open meadows, and some routes include sections of the Forest of Mormal with varied terrain, including some climbs and descents.

Yes, Maroilles is well-suited for cyclists of various skill levels, including beginners and families. There are 21 easy routes available. An excellent option for a relaxed ride is the Maroilles – Lieu dit Hachette, Maroilles loop from Maroilles, an easy 12.1-mile (19.5 km) path that navigates through charming villages and open meadows.

As you cycle around Maroilles, you can encounter several interesting landmarks and natural features. The historic Grand Fayt Mill and the Watermill in Parc Naturel Régional de l'Avesnois are notable sights. You might also pass the Weir at L'Auberge du Puits des Prés or explore sections of the beautiful Chemin Planté forest road within the Mormal forest. The village of Maroilles itself features a beautifully renovated 17th-century abbey mill.

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Maroilles are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For instance, the Maroilles Mill – Maroilles loop from Maroilles is a 14.3-mile (23.1 km) trail that takes you through the historic mill site and along the River Helpe Mineure, bringing you back to your starting point.

The touring cycling experience in Maroilles is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's blend of picturesque landscapes, historical attractions, and serene natural features, particularly the charming Avesnois bocage and the peaceful river towpaths.

While many routes are easy, Maroilles also offers options for cyclists seeking a more moderate challenge. There are 8 moderate routes and 1 difficult route available. A good example of a moderate route is the Maroilles – Carrefour du Croisil loop from Maroilles, which covers 32.4 km (20.1 miles) with a notable elevation gain of 188 meters.

Absolutely. The region is rich in waterways, offering scenic routes along rivers and canals. Many paths follow the Sambre river and its towpaths, allowing you to discover its meandering course, locks, and small canal sections. The River Helpe Mineure also provides gentle cycling paths along its banks, such as those found on the Lock No. 5 of Pont-sur-Sambre – Towpath loop from Maroilles.

Yes, some touring cycling routes in the Maroilles area allow you to explore sections of the beautiful Forest of Mormal. You can encounter the well-known Chemin Planté forest road, which offers a mix of climbs and descents on a good surface, providing varied terrain for your ride.

Maroilles is famous for its namesake cheese. After a rewarding bike ride, you can conclude your tour by visiting one of the local cheese factories for a tasting, adding a delicious gourmet dimension to your outdoor adventure.

The most popular touring cycling route among the komoot community is Cycling and eating out in the Maroilles region. This 16.7-mile (26.9 km) trail offers a delightful blend of scenic landscapes and opportunities to experience local attractions and cuisine.