The best road cycling routes around Lens

There are over 140 road cycling routes documented around Lens, offering a wide range of experiences from gentle canal paths to more challenging rides through historical landscapes. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars.

The Lens region offers diverse terrain for road cyclists. You'll find gentle rides along canal towpaths and greenways, as well as routes that traverse the unique UNESCO-listed mining basin landscapes, including reforested slag heaps. While generally lacking extreme elevation changes, some routes incorporate more challenging sections, particularly those leading to panoramic viewpoints.

Yes, the region offers a good selection of easier routes. For instance, the View of Tourbillon Castle – Bramois Village loop from Ollon VS is an easy option. You can also find gentle rides along the expanding network of 'Voies Vertes' (greenways) and canal towpaths, which are ideal for a relaxed pace.

For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the Lens Village Center – Castles of Sion loop from Crans-Montana Gare offer significant distance and elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Forest Road to Col de Mayens – Col des Mayens de la Zour loop from Icogne, which features substantial climbs.

The region is rich in unique sights. You can cycle through the UNESCO-listed mining basin, featuring reforested slag heaps (terrils) that offer panoramic views. Historical sites like the Vimy Ridge Memorial are also visible from elevated points. For natural features, you might encounter highlights such as Simmen Falls or Lake Tseuzier on some routes.

Yes, many routes around Lens are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the From Crans-Montana to the Summit of Col de Crans Montana — hilly loop, which provides a complete circuit. The region's network of greenways and canal paths also offers numerous opportunities for circular rides.

April and August are particularly popular months for road cycling in Lens, offering generally favorable weather conditions. The Hauts-de-France region experiences varied seasons, so checking local forecasts is always recommended, but spring and late summer typically provide pleasant temperatures for riding.

Yes, despite the region's generally gentle landscape, some routes incorporate significant climbs and pass through areas with mountain features. For instance, the Col de Crans-Montana Summit – Lake Grenon loop from Icogne leads through mountainous landscapes. You can also explore nearby mountain passes like Col du Rawil (2,425 m) or Sanetsch Pass from Sion.

Road cycling in Lens offers a unique blend of historical and natural landscapes. Riders can explore the distinctive UNESCO-listed mining basin with its reforested slag heaps, cycle along tranquil canal towpaths, and discover routes integrated with World War I remembrance trails. This combination provides a rich cultural and environmental heritage alongside varied cycling experiences.

The region offers various spots for breaks. Parc de la Glissoire, a former pithead converted into a leisure center, provides a green stop. Aquaterra is another large green space suitable for a break. Many routes pass through villages and towns where cafes and pubs can be found, especially in areas like Béthune and Aire-sur-la-Lys.

Yes, the region offers options for longer rides. While specific long-distance routes are not detailed here, the extensive network of cycling trails and greenways, combined with the varied countryside, allows for the creation of longer journeys. Routes like the 'Véloroute 32 Remembrance Trail' extend between significant historical sites, offering opportunities for extended cycling adventures.