The best traffic-free bike rides around Bray-Saint-Christophe

Nice rest and picnic area

As a memorial to the many dead, such a "MONUMENT AUX MORTS" (usually called a "Central Memorial" or "War Memorial" in German-speaking countries) is still very important today. "Now, Lord, you let your servant depart in peace, as you have said..." it says in the so-called "Hymn of Simeon" (Luke's Gospel, Chapter 2, Verse 29). However, the people who are remembered here did not depart in peace, but became victims of war and tyranny. Therefore, the term "fallen memorial" is now sometimes used instead of the "war memorial" that was previously common in German. In the French-speaking world, however, this aspect of commemoration of the dead has long been included in the most commonly used term "MONUMENT AUX MORTS". Regardless of language and nation, such a memorial has two important and at the same time everlasting tasks: -1- to keep the memory of the suffering and horror of war alive, -2- and to remind people of the need to maintain peace in the long term.

If you're looking for a scenic and historic route, you can try the Saint-Quentin Canal in northern France. This canal connects the Escaut, the Oise and the Somme, and crosses the watershed at a summit level 20.4 km long with two tunnels. You can run along the towpath, admire the views of the countryside and the waterway, and discover the towns and villages along the route. The canal was built in the 18th century and was an important link for trade and transport. You can learn more about its history and engineering at the Musée du Touage in Riqueval, where you can also see the electric tugboats that pull the boats through the long tunnel. The Saint-Quentin canal is an ideal destination for runners who love culture and adventure.

The Saint-Quentin war memorial is a unique memorial dedicated to the city's soldiers who fell in combat during different wars. The monument is located near the train station and features a large granite wall with three bas-reliefs depicting scenes from 1557, 1870 and 1914-19181. You can admire the work of architect Paul Bigot and sculptors Henri Bouchard and Paul Landowski, who created this impressive structure in 1927. The monument is also a tribute to the resilience of the residents of Saint-Quentin, who endured the destruction and exodus caused by conflicts.

The path that follows the Saint-Quentin Canal from Saint-Quentin to Fontaine-lès-Clercs is approximately 13 kilometers long and will allow you to enjoy views of the water, bridges, locks and the surrounding countryside. The trail is largely flat and easy, with some gentle inclines.

Hotel de Ville

Memorial to first and second world wars

This cycle path to and from Saint-Quentin is only part of the much longer cycle path that follows this canal. It is a perfect way to cycle through the landscape car-free. Cycling along the canal you will come across locks several times, which makes cycling extra fun. Please note that the asphalt is not in good condition everywhere. There are many loose stones and sometimes the asphalt is broken or even gone (gravel). This is doable with a racing bike, but keep your eyes on the path.