The best traffic-free bike rides around Tortequesne
4.4
(25)
203
riders
18
rides
Gravel biking around Tortequesne offers diverse landscapes characterized by a network of waterways, wetlands, and woodlands. The region features the Sensée valley, canals like the Canal du Nord and Canal de la Sensée, and natural areas such as the Sensée marshes and Étangs communaux d'Arleux. Riders can expect a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with routes winding through varied terrain including hills and false flats.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Tortequesne
- The most popular no traffic gravel…
Last updated: November 5, 2026
4.2
(5)
19
riders
51.6km
02:43
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
19
riders
99.0km
05:18
260m
260m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
66.0km
04:26
460m
460m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
9
riders
71.3km
04:45
490m
490m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
7
riders
32.4km
02:06
220m
220m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
World War I military cemetery, located in the municipality of Saint-Léger.
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Super memorial of Arras. It's worth the detour.
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A memorial that should not be missed
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Quiet path with uneven surface. Abandoned locks.
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Splendid memorial. It is worth the detour, to the point of meeting many Canadians.
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Wancourt was captured on 12 April 1917 after very heavy fighting and the advance was continued on the following days. The cemetery, called at first Cojeul Valley Cemetery, or River Road Cemetery, was opened about ten days later; it was used until October 1918, but was in German hands from March 1918 until 26 August, when the Canadian Corps recaptured Wancourt. At the Armistice, the cemetery contained 410 graves, but was very greatly increased in the following years when graves were brought in from a number of small cemeteries and isolated positions on the battlefields south-east of Arras. The cemetery now contains 1936 burials and commemorations of the First World War. 829 of the burials are unidentified but there are special memorials to 76 casualties known or believed to be buried among them, and to 20 who were buried in Signal Trench Cemetery whose graves were destroyed in later battles.
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Hibers Trench Cemetery, situated just north-west of Wancourt near Arras, was begun in April 1917 by the 50th (Northumbrian) Division shortly after the area was captured by British forces at the Battle of Arras. The cemetery contains 136 graves, six of which are unidentified, and also includes three Canadian graves added later in 1918. The simple design is by G.H. Goldsmith and reflects the understated dignity of this memorial. Its position on the Wancourt-Arras road makes it a silent witness to the fierce fighting that took place here, and the presence of personal inscriptions on some of the headstones emphasises the human story behind the numbers. A place of peace, remembrance and reflection.
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Tigris Lane Cemetery is located in Wancourt, near Arras, and was named after a nearby trench. The cemetery was established in May 1917 by the 14th (Light) Division, shortly after the village was captured on 12 April 1917, and reused during its recapture by the Canadian Corps in August 1918. It contains the graves of 119 First World War soldiers, nine of whom are unidentified. Most of the graves belong to British (86) and Canadian (33) soldiers, underlining the international commitment to the region. The sober design is by G.H. Goldsmith and its location close to the TGV railway line emphasises the contrasts between past and present in this quiet place of remembrance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Tortequesne?
There are 16 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Tortequesne, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find 5 easy routes, 10 moderate routes, and 1 difficult route to explore.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these traffic-free gravel routes?
The no-traffic gravel routes around Tortequesne traverse a rich mix of landscapes. You can expect to ride through the scenic Sensée valley, alongside canals like the Canal du Nord and Canal de la Sensée, and explore wetlands such as the Sensée marshes and Étangs communaux d'Arleux. Woodlands like the Bois Duquesnoy also offer shaded sections and varied terrain.
Are there any easy, family-friendly gravel routes without traffic?
Yes, there are several easy, traffic-free gravel routes suitable for families. One great option is the Towpath of the Scarpe – Parc Jacques Vernier loop from Douai, which is 24 km long and offers a gentle ride along the Scarpe towpath.
What are some interesting historical or natural landmarks I can see along the trails?
The region is rich in history and natural beauty. Along the trails, you might encounter megalithic sites such as The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone and Hamel Dolmen or the Sorcerers' Kitchen (Pierre Chavatte). Other notable features include The Big Rock and the stone that grows, adding a unique cultural dimension to your ride.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, the Part of Chemin des Galibots – Argalles spoil tip and pond. loop from Douai is a difficult 39.7 km route with significant elevation changes. Another moderate option for a longer ride is the Biache-Saint-Vaast marshes – Scarpe riverbanks loop from Vitry-en-Artois, spanning over 51 km.
What do other gravel bikers say about the no-traffic trails in Tortequesne?
The no-traffic gravel trails around Tortequesne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 36 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse terrain, the peacefulness of the car-free paths, and the beautiful natural scenery, especially along the canals and through the wetlands.
Can I find circular gravel routes that avoid traffic?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Tortequesne are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Towpath of the Scarpe – Scarpe towpath loop from Douai is a moderate 44.5 km circular route that follows the canal, offering a continuous, car-free experience.
What is the best time of year to gravel bike in Tortequesne to enjoy the quiet trails?
While gravel biking is enjoyable year-round, spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for exploring the quiet trails around Tortequesne. The weather is generally mild, and the natural landscapes, from blooming marshes to colorful woodlands, are particularly vibrant. Summer can also be great, especially for shaded routes.
Are there any routes that pass by significant water features or wetlands?
Absolutely. The region is known for its waterways and wetlands. Routes frequently follow the banks of canals like the Canal du Nord and Canal de la Sensée. You can also explore areas like the Sensée marshes and the Étangs communaux d'Arleux, which are rich in aquatic fauna and offer unique natural scenery. The Argalles spoil tip and pond. – Étang des Argales loop from Douai is a great example, featuring a pond and varied terrain.
Are there any specific routes that offer a mix of terrain, including some hills?
While many routes are along towpaths, some trails do offer more varied terrain with gentle ascents. The Sensée valley, for instance, features 'hills and false flats that will challenge your calves.' Routes like the difficult Part of Chemin des Galibots – Argalles spoil tip and pond. loop from Douai will provide more elevation changes compared to the flatter canal paths.
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