The best traffic-free bike rides around Wannehain
4.5
(115)
575
riders
44
rides
Gravel biking around Wannehain offers diverse terrain across the Nord department of northern France. The region is characterized by pleasantly hilly topography with elevations ranging from 34 to 61 meters, featuring greenways, woodlands like Bois de la Fougère, and expansive agricultural fields. Proximity to the Deûle and Lys rivers provides additional no traffic gravel bike trails along towpaths. This varied landscape makes Wannehain a suitable destination for exploring gravel routes around Wannehain.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Wannehain
…Last updated: May 21, 2026
4.0
(5)
29
riders
64.8km
03:41
250m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
14
riders
47.9km
02:37
120m
120m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(3)
10
riders
32.9km
01:56
110m
110m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(4)
13
riders
51.8km
02:56
210m
210m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(2)
10
riders
51.1km
03:10
110m
110m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Wannehain
Tips from the Community
***** a journey of discovery through beautiful nature
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Please note: in summer the park is open every day (except Saturdays) from 10am to 7pm, but in winter it is only open on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, each time from 10am to 6pm.
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However dilapidated the castle may be, the future promises improvement: The current owners of the castle, Pierre and Annie Moulin-Duthoit and their children, are responsible for its restoration, particularly Olivier Moulin, who wrote a thesis on this heritage at the end of his architectural studies. ...that's why you can see signs of construction work from a distance (approaching close is not permitted). Source: leershistorique.fr
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The Château de Royères, probably around 1100, was a feudal motte with a wooden tower and a retractable walkway... which Havide de Néchin brought as a dowry to Lambert de Wattrelos. The inhabitants of Tournai submitted to Philip II Augustus. The Tournai region would belong to the French royal family for over 300 years (1187-1521). La Royère is located in the Château de Lille, in the Flanders region, on the hills of Leers and Néchin, on the edge of the Wattines forest, on the border with Tournaisis: it is the castle of the border. In 1227, it was probably a feudal motte with a stone tower that was purchased by Arnoul IV. Wealthier than the seller Hugues de Roubaix, he may have had Tournai's stone walls built. From 1500 onwards, the lords of Roubaix also became lords of La Royère through marriage: the de Werchin and the de Melun. Pierre de Melun, governor of Tournai, lord of Roubaix and La Royère, and a Protestant supporter, was considered civilly dead by Philip II, the Catholic king. His possessions passed to the Ligne family through Anne de Melun. As a supporter of the Edict of Nantes (Henry IV, 1598), Louis XIV returned La Royère to the de Melun family. This led to family disputes: the property first went to the de Ligne family and then back to the de Melun family. A Crombez from Tournai bought La Royère, 35 hectares (Popp map circa 1850). Miss Crombez de Remond de Montmort married Count Ferdinand Costa de Saint-Gérix de Beauregard… Everything was then sold to farmers. Source: leershistorique.fr
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Please note: the towpath on the south side is temporarily closed towards Leers between the Pont de Petix-Preux and Rue de Belva. A short detour along Rue de la Motterie is the solution.
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Also note the charming bridge keeper's house. Ten years ago (2015), it was for sale for €52,000. Source: lavenir.net
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The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free gravel bike trails are available around Wannehain?
There are over 35 traffic-free gravel bike trails around Wannehain, offering a variety of experiences. These routes range from easy to difficult, ensuring options for all skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails near Wannehain?
The region around Wannehain features a pleasantly hilly and diverse landscape. You'll encounter greenways, woodlands like the Bois de la Fougère and Bois de Mourdry, and expansive agricultural fields. While some paths are paved, many offer a mix of surfaces ideal for gravel bikes, including sections near the Deûle and Lys rivers with flatter towpaths.
Are there any easy, traffic-free gravel routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Wannehain offers several easy, traffic-free gravel routes. An excellent option is the Bois de Templeuve – Les 4 chemins paved sector loop from Baisieux, which is rated easy and provides a gentle introduction to the area's gravel paths. Another family-friendly choice is the Heron Lake – Greenway Hem-Anstaing loop from Gruson, which is also rated easy and offers scenic views.
What are the best seasons for gravel biking in Wannehain?
The region is generally accessible for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may vary, especially on unpaved sections.
What interesting natural sights can I see along the gravel trails?
Many routes will take you through or near beautiful natural features. You can explore the Heron Lake, which is featured on several routes, or ride through the tranquil Vert Bois de Blandain forest. The area is also close to the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Natural Park, known for its diverse ecosystems.
Are there any longer or more challenging traffic-free gravel routes?
For those seeking a longer and more challenging ride, consider the Bois de Templeuve – Bois du Fay loop from Baisieux. This route covers over 64 km with moderate elevation gain, offering a more extensive exploration of the region's diverse landscapes. Another challenging option is the Bois d'Infière Boardwalk – As the water flows loop from Rumes, which is rated difficult.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes around Wannehain?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Wannehain are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the As the water flows – Greenway Hem-Anstaing loop from Baisieux is a great circular option that follows greenways and waterside paths.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Wannehain?
The gravel trails around Wannehain are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the varied landscapes from woodlands to agricultural fields, and the accessibility for different skill levels.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest along the routes?
While primarily natural, the broader region has connections to the iconic Paris-Roubaix race. You might encounter sections like the Carrefour de l'Arbre cobbled sector or The cobbles at Vertain Mill, offering a taste of cycling history. The area also features charming villages and historical sites like La Grande Ferme.
Is it possible to access these trails using public transport?
While Wannehain itself is a smaller commune, the wider Hauts-de-France region has public transport options. It's advisable to check local bus or train schedules to nearby larger towns like Baisieux or Gruson, which serve as starting points for several routes, and then cycle to the trailheads. Specific public transport links directly to every trailhead may be limited.
Where can I find parking for the gravel bike trails?
Many of the routes start from towns or villages like Baisieux, Gruson, or Rumes, where public parking is generally available. It's recommended to check the specific route details on komoot for suggested starting points and potential parking information near the trailheads.
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