Best attractions and places to see around Croix include a mix of historical sites, significant waterways, and sporting landmarks. This region, located near the French-Belgian border, features canals that serve as both historical routes and modern cycle paths. Visitors can explore areas rich in industrial heritage and enjoy the tranquil settings of its rivers. The landscape offers opportunities for cycling and discovering architectural gems.
Last updated: July 29, 2026
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Smooth tarmac, but be carefull as nothing will stop you to fall into the canal, particularly for new skateboarders. One part of the track is halas closed for some months now.
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The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
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Super nice, and go inside the courtyard, you have old book sellers there.
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For a cycling tourist, the arrival at the Roubaix velodrome is also a great moment. Even after dozens of times!
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For the legend this race is, and how normal in fact the velodrome is...
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Built between 1652 and 1653, this former stock exchange is a jewel of Flemish architecture. It is made up of 24 identical houses surrounding an interior courtyard where book sellers and tango demonstrations take place today in summer.
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A very famous part of the Paris/Roubaix cycling race
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Families visiting Croix can enjoy several engaging spots. The Port of Wambrechies offers a peaceful river setting, perfect for a relaxed outing. The Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix is a unique spot where you can cross the border on a cycle path, which is also suitable for families. Additionally, the Roubaix Velodrome, a historic cycling landmark, and the Old Stock Exchange of Lille are also considered family-friendly attractions.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity around Croix. The Espierres Canal features a new cycle path and beautiful surroundings, making it ideal for a ride. The Canal de Roubaix, which forms part of the Belgium–France border, also has a cycle path. For more dedicated cyclists, the Cycling around Croix guide offers various routes, including easy loops like the Tourcoing loop – Canal de Roubaix loop from Croix Centre.
The region around Croix is rich in history. The Roubaix Velodrome is a significant historical site, famous as the finish line for the Paris-Roubaix cycling race since 1943. The Old Stock Exchange of Lille is another prominent historical landmark, showcasing beautiful 17th-century Baroque Flemish architecture. The Espierres Canal also has historical significance, originally built to connect the Deûle with the Scheldt for water and coal supply.
For scenic views and natural features, the Port of Wambrechies offers a quiet and peaceful river area. The canals, such as the Espierres Canal and the Canal de Roubaix, provide beautiful surroundings for walks and bike rides, showcasing the region's waterways and green spaces.
Yes, there are several options for walking and running. The canals, including the Espierres Canal and the Canal de Roubaix, offer pleasant trails along their banks. For more structured routes, the Running Trails around Croix guide lists options like the Canal de Roubaix Towpath loops, which are suitable for moderate runs.
Visitors appreciate the diverse offerings around Croix. The Port of Wambrechies is loved for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere, especially with nearby amenities like La Ginguette. The Roubaix Velodrome is highly regarded for its historical significance in cycling. The canals, like the Espierres Canal, are praised for their new cycle paths and beautiful surroundings, making them popular for outdoor activities.
Yes, for instance, near the Port of Wambrechies, you can find 'La Ginguette' for a drink. The Roubaix Velodrome also has a pub on-site. The towns themselves, such as Lille, offer numerous cafes and restaurants.
Absolutely. The Old Stock Exchange of Lille is a prime example, celebrated for its 17th-century Baroque Flemish architecture, featuring red brick, white natural stone, and lavish decorations. It's considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Lille.
Beyond cycling, the canal towpaths offer excellent opportunities for walking and running. The Running Trails around Croix guide provides various routes for joggers. The peaceful river areas, such as the Port of Wambrechies, are also great for leisurely strolls.
Yes, the Roubaix Velodrome is a municipal sports center and a popular destination for cyclists and visitors. It hosts various events, including the World Masters Championships, and is generally open for public viewing and use, though specific access might vary depending on events.
Yes, the Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix offers a seamless crossing point. The Euro Velo Route 5 leads along here, and you can cycle or walk across the border, noting the change in path surface from paved in Belgium to gravel in France.
The canals, such as the Espierres Canal and the Canal de Roubaix, are central to the region's character. They served historical purposes, like supplying Lille-Roubaix-Tourcoing with water and coal, and now function as important recreational routes for cycling and walking, connecting towns and offering scenic pathways.


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