4.5
(2)
18
riders
8
rides
No traffic gravel bike trails around Contalmaison, located in the Somme department of northern France, offer a unique blend of historical landscapes and rural charm. The region is characterized by extensive fields and greenery, with an elevation ranging from 87m to 161m, providing varied terrain suitable for gravel biking. Agricultural land use means a network of farm tracks and rural paths crisscrosses the landscape, ideal for traffic-free cycling. This allows riders to explore the tranquil countryside and significant World War…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
4.0
(1)
3
riders
28.2km
02:10
260m
260m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
46.0km
02:46
250m
250m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
3
riders
52.3km
03:31
430m
430m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
30.9km
02:12
220m
220m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
40.9km
02:56
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Contalmaison
Nice view of the ponds and the villa "Les étangs".
0
0
The Nymphe d'Aveluy is a historical monument in Aveluy, France, commemorating the artwork created by French soldiers during World War I. During periods of rest between battles, soldiers created sculptures and engravings, including the famous "Nymphe d'Aveluy". These works were often photographed and sent to their families on postcards.
1
0
Grove Town Cemetery in Méaulte contains 1,392 graves: 1,365 British, 12 Canadian, 14 Australian, and 1 New Zealander. In September 1916, during the Battle of the Somme, two dressing stations were established at this site, which was known to the troops as Grove Town (grove = grove / town = town), where those who did not survive their wounds were buried until April 1917. In August and September 1918, following the victorious Allied counteroffensive, other bodies were also buried in this cemetery.
0
0
The Méaulte Military Cemetery was built in December 1915 and was in use until February 1917, although after the fighting of 1918 and the armistice, more bodies were buried there. It contains 312 graves (303 British, 2 Canadian, 1 Australian, and 6 Indian), including 21 unidentified bodies. The village of Méaulte was occupied by the British from 1915 until March 26, 1918, when it was captured by the Germans. It was finally liberated by the British 12th Division, supported by tanks, on August 22, 2018.
0
0
The extension to the Mesnil-Martinsart Communal Cemetery was built in July 1916, at the time of the Battle of the Somme, and contains 333 graves: 321 British, 5 Canadians, and 7 New Zealanders. Since the village of Mesnil was located near the front until September 1916, and again from March to August 1918, this cemetery was begun in July, at the time of the Battle of the Somme. Although bodies were still being buried in 1918, it was mainly after the armistice that a large number of bodies from the nearby battlefield, located northeast of Mesnil, were gathered here. This was the case for 141 British sailors and soldiers, as well as the Canadians from Mesnil Dressing Station Cemetery. This cemetery was located during the war to the west of the village, near a small railway line, which was mainly used to transport munitions. It was used from June 1916 to February 1917, and again from March to July 1918, mainly by the 63rd Division: the Royal Naval Division
0
0
Inaugurated in 1930 at a location known as Red Cross Corner, the Pozières Memorial comprises a cemetery with 2,756 graves (1,828 British, 708 Australian, 219 Canadian, and 1 German), including 1,374 unidentified, as well as a memorial commemorating 14,649 victims (14,328 British and 321 South African) who have no known grave, who fell during the German counterattack of March 1918. Their names are engraved on the walls surrounding it. Pozières was attacked on July 23, 1916, by the 1st Australian Division and the 48th (South Midland) Division, and was captured the following day. It was lost on March 24 and 25, 1918, during the major German advance, and recaptured by the 17th Division on August 24. Quote on the entrance pediment: "In memory of the officers and men of the 5th and 4th Armies who fought on the battlefields of the Somme between March 21 and August 7, 1918, and of those of their dead who have no known grave"
0
0
The extension of the Aveluy communal cemetery was built by the French, who occupied the village until July 1915. Then relieved by British troops, the latter continued to use it until November 1917. It contains 613 bodies: 549 British, 54 Australian, 7 Canadian, 1 South African, and 2 Indian - the latter three being part of labor units. The thirty graves of French soldiers were moved after the war to a necropolis
0
0
The foundations of the blockhouse, captured by the Australians on July 14, 1916, are still visible. It was actually an old cellar that had been reinforced and accessed through a concrete entrance. The village of Pozières had been heavily fortified by the Germans (defended by nearly 200 machine guns). It was located on a ridge (elevation 160) crossed by a double network of trenches. Two enormous blockhouses dominated the battlefield: "Gibraltar" at the southern entrance (coming from Albert), and "Le Moulin à Vent" at the northern entrance from Bapaume (which would not be captured until August 4).
0
0
This guide features 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Contalmaison. These routes are designed to offer a peaceful cycling experience away from vehicular traffic, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the region's unique landscapes and history.
The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Contalmaison are generally rated as moderate. This means they offer a good balance of challenge and accessibility, suitable for cyclists with some experience looking for engaging rides. Expect varied terrain, including farm tracks and rural paths, with gentle elevation changes.
You can expect a diverse landscape characterized by 'fields and greenery,' with an elevation ranging from 87m to 161m. The trails primarily utilize rural paths and farm tracks, perfect for gravel bikes, offering a tranquil journey through agricultural areas and historical sites. The region's gentle hills provide varied, yet manageable, terrain.
The region is rich in World War I history. Many no-traffic gravel routes pass by significant memorials and battlefields. For example, the Newfoundland Memorial – Beaumont-Hamel trails loop from Albert takes you past the poignant Newfoundland Memorial. Other notable sites in the area include the impressive Lochnagar Crater and the Thiepval Memorial, which can be incorporated into your rides.
Yes, the rural nature of the trails offers many scenic moments through fields and greenery. While not mountainous, the gentle elevation changes provide pleasant vistas. The Thiepval Memorial itself offers a significant viewpoint, and the Vaux Viewpoint is another spot to take in the surrounding landscape. The tranquility of the countryside, with its agricultural fields, provides a consistently picturesque backdrop.
Given their moderate difficulty and focus on traffic-free paths, many of these gravel trails can be suitable for families with older children who are comfortable with longer rides and varied terrain. The absence of car traffic makes for a safer and more relaxed experience. Always check the specific route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
While the trails are traffic-free and pass through rural areas, it's important to keep dogs under control, especially when passing through agricultural land or near livestock. Always check local regulations regarding dogs on trails and be mindful of other users. Ensure your dog is fit enough for the distance and terrain.
Yes, several of the featured routes are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Miraumont – Lavoir de St Pierre Divio loop from Miraumont and the Ulster Tower – Newfoundland Memorial loop from Miraumont are excellent circular options for exploring the region without retracing your steps.
Many of the routes start from towns like Albert or Miraumont. These towns typically offer public parking options where you can safely leave your vehicle. It's advisable to check specific starting points on the route pages for detailed parking information, as rural access points may have limited facilities.
The duration varies depending on the route length and your cycling pace. For instance, the Gravel loop from Albert is approximately 31 km and can take around 2 hours and 15 minutes, while the longer Newfoundland Memorial – Beaumont-Hamel trails loop from Albert, at over 52 km, might take closer to 3 hours and 30 minutes. Always factor in time for stops at historical sites or scenic viewpoints.
The routes often start or pass through small towns and villages like Albert and Miraumont, where you can find local amenities, including cafes, bakeries, or small shops to refuel. It's always a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer stretches between villages, as services can be sparse in the more rural areas.
Contalmaison and its surroundings offer a unique blend of historical significance and tranquil rural landscapes, making it ideal for no-traffic gravel biking. The extensive network of farm tracks and quiet paths allows for peaceful exploration away from cars. The region's rich World War I history provides a poignant backdrop, turning a bike ride into a journey through time amidst serene fields and greenery.


Browse the best Gravel rides in other regions.