The best cycling routes around Bois de Bourlon
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Touring cycling around Bois de Bourlon offers routes through a landscape characterized by dense woodlands and gentle, rolling terrain. The region features a mix of forested paths and open countryside, providing varied scenery for cyclists. Elevation changes are generally mild, making it suitable for a range of abilities. The area is known for its historical significance, with memorials and cemeteries often integrated into the routes.
Best touring cycling routes around Bois de Bourlon
- The most popular touring cycling route is…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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4
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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29.2km
01:43
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9.93km
00:51
70m
70m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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8
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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.
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The British cemetery of Sains-les-Marquion contains the graves of 255 soldiers who died during the First World War, mainly Canadians who liberated the village from German occupation in September 1918. You can admire the architecture of the cemetery, designed by W C Von Berg, and pay tribute to fallen heroes.
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Tortequesne is surrounded by lakes and marshes on the border of the Nord and Pas de Calais departments. The Church of St. Martin, dating from the nineteenth century, is a sight to behold.
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Arleux is a commune in the north of France, between Douai and Cambrai, in the heart of the Sensée valley. It is a green oasis and a true haven of peace with vast ponds, swamps as far as the eye can see, rivers and canals that delight nature lovers with their exceptional biodiversity. The municipal pond of Arleux is a popular spot for fishermen, where pontoons have been installed for people with reduced mobility. There are many coarse fish such as roach, bream, tench, carp, eel, bleak and gudgeon, but also predatory fish such as pike, zander and perch.
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Arleux is a commune in the north of France, between Douai and Cambrai, in the heart of the Sensée valley. It is a green oasis and a true haven of peace with vast ponds, swamps as far as the eye can see, rivers and canals that delight nature lovers with their exceptional biodiversity. The municipal pond of Arleux is a popular place for fishermen, where pontoons have been installed for people with reduced mobility. There are many white fish such as roach, bream, tench, carp, eel, eel and goby, but also predatory fish such as pike, pike-perch and perch.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Bois de Bourlon?
There are over 160 touring cycling routes documented in Bois de Bourlon, offering a wide range of options for exploring the region's woodlands and countryside.
What is the overall difficulty level for touring cycling in Bois de Bourlon?
The routes in Bois de Bourlon are generally characterized by gentle, rolling terrain and mild elevation changes. You'll find a good mix, with 66 easy routes, 83 moderate routes, and 18 more challenging options, making it suitable for various skill levels.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Bois de Bourlon?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Bois de Bourlon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, you can try the Bourlon Wood Memorial – Canadian Bourlon Wood Memorial loop from Graincourt-lès-Havrincourt or the shorter Bike loop from Bourlon.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Bois de Bourlon?
Yes, the region's gentle terrain makes it ideal for family cycling. Many of the 66 easy routes are suitable for families. The Bike loop from Bourlon is a short, accessible option perfect for a leisurely family ride.
What kind of historical landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Bois de Bourlon is rich in historical significance. Many routes integrate memorials and cemeteries. For instance, the Cantimpre Canadian Cemetery loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame passes by significant historical sites, offering a chance to reflect on the area's past.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Bois de Bourlon?
The best seasons for touring cycling in Bois de Bourlon are typically spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its most vibrant. Summer also offers pleasant conditions, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but requires appropriate gear for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Are there any longer touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Bois de Bourlon offers several options. The Vaucelles Abbey – Bel-Aise cobblestone loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame is a moderate 45.3 km route that provides a more extended exploration of the area.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bois de Bourlon?
The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in Bois de Bourlon, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's dense woodlands, gentle inclines, and the integration of historical landmarks into the routes, providing varied scenery and points of interest.
Can I find routes that follow canals or waterways?
Yes, some routes incorporate sections along local waterways. The Canal du Nord – Lock No 4 – Lock No. 3 loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame is a great example, offering scenic views along the canal.
Is it possible to find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes are not always directly on every trail, many routes pass through or near villages where you can find local establishments for refreshments. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify potential stops in advance.
What are the typical weather conditions for cycling in Bois de Bourlon?
Bois de Bourlon experiences a temperate climate. Summers are generally warm and pleasant, while winters can be cold and damp. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, but rain is possible year-round. It's always advisable to check the local forecast before heading out.
Most popular routes around Bois de Bourlon
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