The best walks and hikes around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs
4.5
(244)
1,042
hikers
119
hikes
Hiking around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs offers varied terrain, situated on a hill with elevated views over the Canal de Saint-Quentin and the Somme river valley. The region's topography includes inclines and descents, with altitudes ranging from 67 to 102 meters. Its location provides access to canal towpaths, as well as proximity to marshland ecosystems and extensive forests, ensuring diverse natural experiences.
Best hiking trails around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs
- The most popular hiking route is Canal de St Quentin et cimetière britannique de Grand-Seraucourt —…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.6
(24)
49
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.9
(12)
8
hikers
14.7km
03:51
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
14
hikers
9.24km
02:23
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
"God loves every soul with an undying love. He approaches each one with repeated, unspeakably patient offers of redemption. Even a small sign of love is enough for him to forgive and redeem. Our dear departed ones lacked a life preserver for the body; but the spiritual life preserver was not lacking, the breath of God in which the soul can clothe itself in a tiny moment, much more quickly than the body could." (Text by Albino Luciani / Pope John Paul I)
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The British cemetery of Seraucourt was created from 1920 to 1926, where the remains of soldiers buried in graves located on the nearby battlefield were grouped together, most of them killed in 1918. The cemetery contains 1,378 bodies including: 1 371 British, 5 Canadians and 2 Australians. Among them are around twenty airmen shot down in 1944. Only 496 bodies have been identified.
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The Grand-Seraucourt British Cemetery is a historic site dating from the First World War, where nearly 2,000 British soldiers and airmen are buried. The cemetery covers an area of 4,732 m² and is surrounded by a stone wall. You can run along the paths that connect the different sections of the cemetery and admire the memorial stones and flowers that adorn them. You can also learn more about the history of the cemetery and the people buried there by reading the information panels or scanning the QR codes with your smartphone. The cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entry is free. Running in the Grand-Seraucourt British Cemetery is a way to honor the memory of those who fought for freedom, and to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this place.
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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.
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If you are interested in the history of the First and Second World Wars, you can visit the Grand-Seraucourt British Cemetery, a British military cemetery located in the commune of Seraucourt-le-Grand, in the department of Aisne. The cemetery contains 1,378 graves of soldiers who died mostly in 1918, as well as a few airmen shot down in 1944. The information panels and memorial stones will allow you to learn more about the battles that took place in this region and on the history of fallen soldiers. The cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entry is free. The cemetery is surrounded by a stone wall and has a staircase and a building at the entrance. There you can take a peaceful and respectful walk among the rows of white tombstones and admire the flowers and trees that adorn the site.
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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.
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Most of the soldiers who died senselessly in the First World War only lived to be 22 years old.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of terrain can I expect on hikes around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
The hiking trails around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs offer a varied landscape. You'll find routes with inclines and descents as the commune is situated on a hill, providing elevated views. Many paths follow the picturesque towpaths along the Canal de Saint-Quentin and the Somme river valley. The region also offers proximity to marshland ecosystems and extensive forests, ensuring a diverse natural experience.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, there are several easy trails. For instance, the Canal de Saint-Quentin Path – Fontaine les clercs lock loop from Seraucourt-le-Grand is a 4.7-mile (7.6 km) route that leads through pleasant canal-side landscapes and is generally completed in under two hours. Overall, about 50 of the 129 routes in the area are classified as easy.
Can I find circular hiking routes in the area?
Many of the trails around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Canal de St Quentin et cimetière britannique de Grand-Seraucourt — boucle depuis Seraucourt-le-Grand, which combines canal paths with a historical site, and the Fontaine les clercs lock – Old bridge loop from Gauchy, exploring local waterways.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking near Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
Hikers can explore the scenic Canal de Saint-Quentin and the Somme River, which offer picturesque towpaths. The area is also close to the Réserve Naturelle des Marais d'Isle, a significant marshland ecosystem near Saint-Quentin, providing unique flora and fauna. For historical interest, the Saint-Quentin war memorial and the British Cemetery of Grand-Seraucourt are notable sites.
Are there any long-distance hiking opportunities from Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
Yes, the region is part of the historic Via Francigena (GR145), a long-distance pilgrimage route. A stage of this route connects Saint-Quentin to Jussy along the Somme, offering opportunities for immersive, multi-day hiking experiences that pass through the broader area.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
The hiking routes in Fontaine-Lès-Clercs are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic canal paths, and the blend of natural beauty with historical sites.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
While specific family-friendly routes are not highlighted, the presence of numerous easy and moderate trails, particularly those along the flat canal towpaths, makes many routes suitable for families. The shorter circular walks are often a good choice for outings with children.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
The region is generally pleasant for hiking from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming nature, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer is also suitable, especially for shaded forest walks or routes along the canals where breezes can be refreshing. Winter hiking is possible, but conditions may vary.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting on the trails?
Given its proximity to the Somme River and the Réserve Naturelle des Marais d'Isle, the area offers good opportunities for wildlife spotting, particularly birds and aquatic species in the marshland and river environments. Forested areas may also reveal local woodland creatures.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
While specific parking locations for each trail are not detailed, routes often start from villages or towns like Seraucourt-le-Grand, Gauchy, or Savy. These locations typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for the most convenient parking options.
Are there any routes that include historical sites?
Yes, several routes incorporate historical sites. For example, the Canal de St Quentin et cimetière britannique de Grand-Seraucourt — boucle depuis Seraucourt-le-Grand specifically includes the British Cemetery of Grand-Seraucourt. The broader region also has historical significance, with nearby Saint-Quentin offering attractions like the Basilique Saint-Quentin.
How many hiking trails are available around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs?
There are over 120 hiking trails available around Fontaine-Lès-Clercs, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These include easy strolls along canals, moderate loops through the countryside, and longer routes that explore the wider region.
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