The best cycling routes around Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon
4.3
(190)
1,473
riders
82
rides
Touring cycling routes around Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon traverse the varied terrain of France's Aisne department. The region features green landscapes and rolling fields, with elevations ranging from 70 to 194 meters. Cyclists encounter both climbs and descents, particularly along the Chemin des Dames ridge, which offers panoramas over the Aisne and Ailette valleys. This area provides a mix of challenging and flatter sections suitable for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon
- The most popular touring cycling route is View of…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
4.4
(28)
117
riders
18.5km
01:16
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(15)
75
riders
35.2km
02:21
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(3)
23
riders
8.63km
00:34
40m
40m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
21
riders
34.6km
02:20
430m
430m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
7
riders
15.8km
01:03
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
An Art Deco church, particularly representative of the revival of sacred art in the 1920s. A masterpiece among the churches of the Reconstruction period, visitors will be captivated by the frescoes, mosaics, stained-glass windows and superb bell tower supported by angels. Built between 1928 and 1932 under the direction of architect Paul-Albert Müller, the church is both modern and back to basics. The use of reinforced concrete, a material already used by some architects before the war, is combined with early Christian symbols such as the fish or the pelican
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Louis Astoul: Along the D18 on the Chemin des Dames, between Cerny-en-Laonnois and the Caverne du Dragon, stands a modest monument to Louis Astoul, a young French second lieutenant in the 70th regiment of tirailleurs sénégalais. He was killed on 16 April 1917, on the first day of the disastrous Nivelle Offensive, at the age of just 24. The monument honours not only him, but also his comrades – mostly colonial soldiers from West Africa – who gave their lives in this region in the hope of a breakthrough that never came. Astoul was reported missing near the village of Paissy, and his body was never found. Today, this memorial recalls the often forgotten role of colonial troops in the Great War, and the personal drama behind the great history.
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During the First World War, Cerny-en-Laonnois was a strategic point along the Chemin des Dames, a ridge fiercely contested by French and German troops. In September 1914, the village was taken by the Germans, who used it as a defensive post. They dug deep underground networks in the limestone, which served as shelters and munitions stores. In the spring of 1917, the area became the scene of the Nivelle Offensive, a large-scale French attack that resulted in heavy losses and eventually led to mutinies within the French army. Cerny-en-Laonnois was completely destroyed by artillery fire and fighting. After the war, the village was rebuilt a little further south. Today, the military cemeteries, the memorial chapel and the “Lanterne des Morts” bear witness to the immense human suffering that took place here.
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Ailette Lake is a haven of tranquility surrounded by greenery. Its calm and clear waters invite you to relax, whether for a stroll along the lake, a canoe trip or a picnic break. The preserved natural setting offers magnificent views of the surrounding wooded hills and the developed beaches.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon?
There are over 75 touring cycling routes around Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easier loops to more challenging paths with significant elevation changes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon?
The terrain in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon is varied, characteristic of the Aisne department. You'll encounter green landscapes and rolling fields, with elevations ranging from 70 to 194 meters. Routes along the Chemin des Dames ridge feature both vertiginous climbs and descents, as well as flatter sections, providing an engaging and scenic ride.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are 21 easy touring cycling routes in the area. An excellent option is the Lake Ailette – View of Lake Ailette loop from Chermizy-Ailles, an 8.6-mile (13.8 km) trail that leads through rolling fields and pastoral scenes. Another easy route is the Vauclair Abbey – Monks' Pond loop from Bouconville-Vauclair, which is 9.4 km long.
What historical landmarks or attractions can I visit along the cycling routes?
The region is rich in history. You can cycle past significant sites like the Vauclair Abbey Ruins and the Ferme d'Hurtebise War Memorial. The famous Caverne du Dragon, a former underground quarry and WWI museum, is also directly in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon and accessible from cycling routes along the Chemin des Dames.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Many routes in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon are designed as loops, perfect for touring cyclists. For example, the View of Lake Ailette – Lake Ailette loop from Bouconville-Vauclair is a popular 11.5-mile (18.5 km) circular route offering views of Lake Ailette. Another option is the Ailette Lake – Monks' Pond loop from Neuville-sur-Ailette.
What do other cyclists say about the touring routes in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon?
The touring cycling routes in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 225 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the green landscapes, and the scenic panoramas, especially along the Chemin des Dames.
Can I find routes that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. The Chemin des Dames ridge, which many routes traverse, is known for its superb panoramas overlooking the Aisne and Ailette valleys. These elevated sections provide breathtaking views of the surrounding green landscapes and rolling fields, making for a very scenic ride.
Is Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon well-connected by public transport for cyclists?
While specific public transport details for cyclists directly to Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon are not readily available, the broader Aisne department and France, in general, are increasingly supporting cycle tourism. It's advisable to check regional transport services for options that accommodate bicycles, especially for connections to larger towns in the Aisne department.
Where can I park my car when starting a cycling tour?
Parking availability can vary by starting point. For routes beginning in villages like Bouconville-Vauclair or Chermizy-Ailles, you can often find public parking areas. It's recommended to check specific starting points on your chosen komoot tour for detailed parking information or local signage upon arrival.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Oulches-La-Vallée-Foulon, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather. Always check the local forecast before heading out.
Are there any routes that pass by Lake Ailette?
Yes, Lake Ailette is a prominent feature in many touring cycling routes. For instance, the Lake Ailette – View of Lake Ailette loop from Bouconville-Vauclair is a moderate 21.9-mile (35.2 km) path that includes varied terrain and offers views of the lake.
Can I find routes with significant elevation changes for a more challenging ride?
Yes, the region offers routes with notable elevation changes, particularly along the Chemin des Dames. The terrain includes both climbs and descents, providing a challenging yet rewarding experience for touring cyclists seeking more strenuous rides. The average elevation in the commune itself ranges from 70 to 194 meters.
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