The best gravel rides around Tournai

Gravel biking around Tournai offers a diverse mix of landscapes. You'll find routes along the scenic Scheldt River Valley, featuring mills, farms, and limestone quarries. The region also includes extensive interconnected cycling networks within the Plaines de l'Escaut & Pays des Collines Natural Parks, as well as tranquil greenways and rural roads. Some areas, like Mont-Saint-Aubert and Kluisberg, offer more challenging climbs and varied terrain.

There are over 45 gravel bike trails around Tournai listed on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

Yes, Tournai offers several challenging routes. For instance, the Plaines de l'Escaut & Pays des Collines Natural Parks loop from Tournai is a difficult 41.7-mile (67.1 km) trail with significant elevation gain. Another challenging option is the Mont-Saint-Aubert – Moulin de Barbissart loop from Froyennes, which includes the notable climb of Mont-Saint-Aubert.

The region is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the Scheldt River Valley with its ornithological reserves and typical lakes, or discover the varied landscapes of the Plaines de l'Escaut & Pays des Collines Natural Parks. The Kluisbos forest area near Kluisberg - Mont de l'Enclus also offers beautiful surroundings and challenging climbs.

Many routes offer glimpses of historical sites. You might pass by the iconic Pont des Trous, a medieval bridge over the Scheldt, or see the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady and the Belfry of Tournai (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites) from various points. Some routes, like the Belfry of Tournai – Pont des Trous loop from Blandain, specifically incorporate these landmarks. You can also find several castles in the wider area, such as Antoing Castle.

The gravel biking routes in Tournai are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.45 stars from over 180 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful rural roads, and the scenic beauty of the natural parks and river valleys.

While many routes are moderate to difficult, the extensive network of greenways (RAVeL) and tranquil country roads provides gentler options suitable for families. These paths often follow old railway lines or canals, offering flat and traffic-free cycling experiences. For example, the Blaton–Ath Canal – RAVeL 4 – Escaut Canal loop from Leuze offers a moderate ride along canal paths and greenways.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around Tournai are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Plaines de l'Escaut & Pays des Collines Natural Parks loop from Tournai and the Étang Chabaud-Latour – Étang d'Amaury loop from Antoing.

The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.

Absolutely. The Scheldt River Valley is a defining feature of the Tournai landscape and many gravel routes incorporate its banks. You'll find scenic paths alongside the river, passing by mills, farms, and even ornithological reserves. The Blaton–Ath Canal – RAVeL 4 – Escaut Canal loop from Leuze is one such route that utilizes canal paths, which are often connected to the river system.

Many routes start from towns or villages that offer public parking facilities. For routes originating directly from Tournai, you can typically find parking within the city or at designated trailheads on the outskirts. Specific parking information is often available on individual route pages on komoot.

Yes, the region's landscape includes typical lakes and cut-off Scheldt arms. The Étang Chabaud-Latour – Étang d'Amaury loop from Antoing is a moderate route that specifically explores tranquil waterways and rural paths, including these scenic ponds.