The best traffic-free bike rides around Bois de Bourlon
4.3
(83)
717
riders
155
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Bois de Bourlon traverse a landscape characterized by dense woodlands and surrounding agricultural fields. The area features a mix of geological compositions, including sand, clay, and sandstone overlying a chalk base, contributing to varied terrain. Cyclists can explore shaded forest paths within the wood itself, or venture into the wider countryside which includes views of the Canal du Nord and Canal de l'Escaut. The elevation changes are generally moderate, making it suitable for a…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
3
riders
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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4.0
(1)
8
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
12
riders
35.9km
02:11
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
4
riders
35.9km
02:27
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Bois de Bourlon
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 Thun Leveque lock is a double lock located on the Scheldt canal, between the municipalities of Thun-l'Évêque and Iwuy, in the Nord department. It allows boats to overcome a difference in height of 2.5 meters between the two reaches of the canal. It is part of a series of five double locks which were built between 1825 and 1830 to improve navigation on the canalized Scheldt1. The Thun Leveque lock has been classified as a historic monument since 19922. It is surrounded by a landscaped park which dates from the 19th century and which belongs to the domain of the Château de Hamel, an 18th century residence which is also protected as architectural heritage3. The Thun Leveque lock is a place of passage and discovery for boaters, cyclists and hikers who use the Scheldt canal or the greenway which runs along it.
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Vaucelles Abbey is a former monastery of Cistercian monks. Founded in 1131 by Saint Bernard himself.
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In Neuville Saint-Remy I discovered this photo on a house wall. The owner of the house happened to walk out the door. So I asked in my bad French if I could take a picture of the picture. He was visibly proud and agreed to my request.
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Magnificent brick church very impressive. It was built after the First World War following the destruction of the previous church. Closed for several years, a team of enthusiasts is struggling within an association to save it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic touring cycling routes are available in Bois de Bourlon?
Bois de Bourlon offers nearly 140 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 56 easy, 68 moderate, and 14 difficult options to explore.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic cycling routes in Bois de Bourlon?
Yes, Bois de Bourlon has numerous family-friendly options. Many of the 56 easy routes are suitable for families, offering shorter distances and minimal elevation gain. For example, the Bike loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame is an easy 7.7 km ride, perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What historical landmarks can I visit along the no traffic touring cycling routes?
The most significant historical landmark is the Canadian Bourlon Wood Memorial. This poignant tribute to World War I offers serene paths and views of former battlefields. While not directly on a route, many cycling paths traverse the surrounding area, allowing for a visit. The Cantimpre Canadian Cemetery loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame, an 18.1 km easy route, brings you close to another significant historical site.
Are there any circular no traffic touring cycling routes in the Bois de Bourlon area?
Yes, many of the no traffic touring cycling routes in Bois de Bourlon are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Bike loop from Bourlon, an easy 9.9 km route that takes you through the local landscape.
What are the best seasons for no traffic bike touring in Bois de Bourlon?
The wooded environment of Bois de Bourlon makes it pleasant for cycling in spring, summer, and autumn. Spring offers blooming flora, while summer provides shaded trails. Autumn is particularly beautiful with changing foliage. Even in winter, some routes can be enjoyed, though conditions may vary.
What kind of landscapes will I encounter on these routes?
You'll experience a diverse range of landscapes. The routes often weave through the dense, shaded woodlands of Bois de Bourlon itself, featuring ancient trees and varied vegetation. Beyond the forest, you'll cycle through the open countryside and fields around Cambrai, with occasional views of the city's steeples on clear days. Some routes also follow the tranquil watersides of the Canal du Nord and Canal de l'Escaut.
Are there any challenging no traffic touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 14 difficult routes available. These typically feature longer distances and more significant elevation gains. While specific difficult routes are not listed here, you can find them among the nearly 140 options on komoot.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Bois de Bourlon?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 83 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the beautiful wooded scenery, and the historical significance of the region, particularly the Canadian Bourlon Wood Memorial.
Are there any routes that pass by canals or waterways?
Yes, some routes incorporate the region's waterways. The Canal du Nord – Lock No 4 – Lock No. 3 loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame is a moderate 35.9 km route that offers excellent waterside cycling along the Canal du Nord.
Can I find routes that combine historical sites with natural beauty?
Absolutely. The Bois de Bourlon region is unique for its blend of history and nature. Many routes allow you to experience the serene woodlands and open fields while being in close proximity to significant historical sites like the Canadian Bourlon Wood Memorial. The Vaucelles Abbey – Bel-Aise cobblestone loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame, a moderate 45.3 km route, offers a journey through varied landscapes with historical points of interest nearby.
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