The best road cycling routes around Bonningues-Lès-Calais
4.5
(244)
7,323
riders
441
rides
Road cycling routes around Bonningues-Lès-Calais are characterized by diverse landscapes, ranging from coastal cliffs to undulating farmland. The region, situated in the Pas-de-Calais department, offers varied terrain with altitudes from 22 to 131 meters, providing both gentle and challenging ascents. Proximity to the Côte d'Opale and the Grand Site de France des Deux Caps, including Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, defines many of the area's cycling experiences. Inland routes traverse quieter rural roads, offering a contrast to the coastal climbs.
…Last updated: June 4, 2026
5.0
(2)
65
riders
109km
05:21
1,310m
1,310m
This difficult 67.4-mile road cycling loop in the Parc naturel régional des caps et marais d'Opale offers diverse scenery and climbs.
34
riders
65.7km
03:05
650m
650m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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32
riders
113km
05:24
1,370m
1,370m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
22
riders
85.6km
04:28
1,020m
1,020m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
37
riders
32.2km
01:22
160m
160m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Magnificent articulated dragon that you can ride on
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In 1882, Father Debras was already thinking about building a sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Seeing the deplorable state of the district known as "Cailloux", he intended to echo the Marian devotion of Father G. Bellanger (1861-1902) within this somewhat isolated space, north of the city, while paying homage to the Patron Saint of soldiers. Having never seen the completion of his work, it was Father Debout who took over the work in 1906. The new parish therefore acquired a vicar, Father Peugnet, who launched the bulletin "Notre-Dame des Armées" and a subscription to raise funds to continue the work on the church. However, the 1914-1918 war forced him to delay the work. Subscriptions declined, partly due to the devaluation, but, as a parish bulletin mentions, the number of faithful praying "for the salvation of France, for the protection of their soldiers, to obtain the grace of courage and resignation" increased. After the war, with numerous appeals in the local press and the Voix de Notre-Dame, Father Peugnet relaunched a special subscription for donors of 500 francs: "the godfathers and godmothers of Notre-Dame." Postcards with the caption "Subscribe in memory of our soldiers" were published at each stage of construction. Indeed, from an estimated cost of 100,000 francs in 1914, the expenditure rose to over a million francs. On December 2, 1940, the Kommandantur requisitioned the Cailloux Church for a service in memory of 18 teenage members of the Hitler Youth, killed the previous morning by a bomb from a lone plane, while they were gathering at the end of Cosmorama Street (Rue Monseigneur Piedfort) waiting for trucks to transport them to the construction sites on the coast. After the German occupation, the church was returned to worship.
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The lakeside walkway has been resurfaced. It's still gravel but is no longer rutted.
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This vast beach stretches for nearly eight kilometers between Calais and Cape Blanc-Nez. It is also known for the first successful aerial crossing of the English Channel by Louis Blériot on July 25, 1909.
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A beautiful climb! Route used by the Tour de France in 2022.
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Very smooth gravel path to avoid the main road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
There are over 400 road cycling routes around Bonningues-Lès-Calais, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored more than 430 routes in the area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
The region offers diverse terrain, from the dramatic coastal cliffs of the Côte d'Opale, including challenging ascents like Cap Blanc-Nez, to gentler, undulating rural roads inland. You'll find a mix of climbs, descents, and flatter sections, with altitudes ranging from 22 to 131 meters.
Are there challenging road cycling routes with significant climbs near Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
Yes, the area is known for its challenging coastal climbs. For instance, the ascent to Cap Blanc-Nez features an average gradient of 7.9% with a maximum of 9.4%. Routes like the Two Caps and Opal Marshes Loop and Route de la Fontaine – Aleanout loop from Pihen are rated as difficult, offering significant elevation gains of over 1300 meters.
Are there easy or family-friendly road cycling options in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a more relaxed ride, there are over 70 easy road cycling routes. Inland routes, such as those south of Calais, tend to have gentler reliefs, traversing farmland and countryside. An example is the Bunker & Lac du Fond Pignon – Our Lady of the Armies Church loop from Fréthun, an easy 27.3 km path exploring historical sites and a lake.
What landmarks or viewpoints can I see while road cycling around Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
Road cycling routes often provide stunning views of the English Channel and the iconic cliffs. You can pass by landmarks such as Cape Blanc-Nez, offering panoramic vistas, and the Dover Patrol Monument. The route between Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez also offers varied coastal scenery.
Can I find circular road cycling routes around Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in the region are designed as loops. Examples include the challenging Two Caps and Opal Marshes Loop and the scenic Cap Blanc Nez – Geese Point loop from Peuplingues, which offers over 1000 meters of elevation gain.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
The region is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Summer offers longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, ideal for coastal rides. However, coastal winds can be a factor, so checking weather conditions is always advisable. Spring and early autumn provide cooler temperatures and often less crowded routes.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Bonningues-Lès-Calais?
The road cycling routes in Bonningues-Lès-Calais are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 200 reviews. More than 6,800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain, often praising the stunning coastal views and the mix of challenging climbs and scenic inland roads.
Are there any routes that combine coastal views with historical sites?
Yes, several routes offer a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. For example, the Bunker & Lac du Fond Pignon – Our Lady of the Armies Church loop from Fréthun explores inland areas, passing by historical sites. The Côte d'Opale itself is dotted with remnants from World War II, adding a cultural dimension to coastal excursions.
Can I find longer road cycling tours that cover significant distances?
Absolutely. The region is home to sections of the Vélomaritime (EuroVelo 4), a recognized cycling network suitable for longer tours. Routes like the Calais Town Hall and Belfry – Coquelles Tour loop from Pihen, at 72.2 km, or the even longer Two Caps and Opal Marshes Loop (108.5 km), provide extensive rides through varied scenery.
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