The best road cycling routes around Lens
4.3
(248)
5,533
riders
514
rides
Road cycling routes around Lens feature a distinctive landscape shaped by its industrial heritage. The region is characterized by "terrils" (slag heaps), which are artificial hills offering varying elevations for climbs and descents. Numerous green routes and converted mining areas provide extensive paths through redeveloped natural spaces. The broader Artois hills also contribute to the varied terrain, offering additional scenic views.
Best road cycling routes around Lens
- The most popular road cycling route is Phalempin State Forest – Le pas Roland loop from Libercourt, a 62.9 miles (101.3 km) trail that takes 4 hours 12 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores forested areas and open landscapes.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Phalempin Forest – Phalempin State Forest loop from Ostricourt, a moderate 56.7 miles (91.3 km) path. This route offers a mix of forest roads and rural scenery.
- Local road cyclists also love the Vimy Ridge – Zivy Crater - Thelus loop from Liévin, a 26.9 miles (43.4 km) trail leading through historical sites and gentle hills, often completed in about 1 hour 49 minutes.
- Road cycling around Lens is defined by its terrils, green routes developed from former mining sites, and the rolling Artois hills. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Lens are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 240 reviews. More than 5400 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Lens's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
5.0
(2)
142
riders
59.2km
02:35
420m
420m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
135
riders
99.5km
04:05
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4.0
(6)
89
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
89
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
76
riders
42.9km
01:46
270m
270m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(4)
73
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
60
riders
104km
04:43
830m
830m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
68
riders
137km
05:41
490m
490m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
3.5
(2)
61
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
48
riders
101km
04:08
570m
570m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The battle of Fromelles on 19 July 1916 was a bloody initiation for Australian soldiers to warfare on the Western Front. Soldiers of the newly arrived 5th Australian Division, together with the British 61st Division, were ordered to attack strongly fortified German front line positions near the Aubers Ridge in French Flanders. The attack was intended as a feint to hold German reserves from moving south to the Somme where a large Allied offensive had begun on 1 July. The feint was a disastrous failure. Australian and British soldiers assaulted over open ground in broad daylight and under direct observation and heavy fire from the German lines. Over 5,500 Australians became casualties. Almost 2,000 of them were killed in action or died of wounds and some 400 were captured. This is believed to be the greatest loss by a single division in 24 hours during the entire First World War. Some consider Fromelles the most tragic event in Australia’s history. https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/fromelles
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not bad for stimulating your legs if you are fed up with tar!
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Small climb accessible to all
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The ruins of the old church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire are an impressive and symbolic remnant of the First World War. This church, built in the 16th century in flamboyant Gothic style by Jacques Le Caron, was heavily damaged during the fighting in 1915. The ruins have been preserved as a monument to commemorate the horrors of war.
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This British cemetery and memorial were built in memory of the Australian soldiers who died during the Battle of Fromelles on 19-20 July 1916. There are 410 Australian soldiers buried here, none of whom have been identified. Although the graves are individual, they are not marked with individual headstones, but the names of some 1,200 missing are recorded on the Memorial, a memorial wall at the rear of the cemetery. Two large concrete crosses have been placed on the grassed area. In front of the memorial wall is the Cross of Sacrifice.
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Near the front line in 1916, a fierce battle was fought between the British (Australians) and the Germans. To commemorate 'la bataille' and the wounded who were brought back from the battlefield, a monument/statue was erected here.
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A remarkable story about the Vimy Memorial concerns its unveiling in 1936. More than 50,000 people, including 6,200 Canadians, attended the ceremony. The presence of so many veterans and survivors underscored the profound impact of the war and the enduring bond between Canada and France. The memorial has since become a symbol of Canadian courage and sacrifice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Lens?
There are over 500 road cycling routes available around Lens, catering to various skill levels. You can find options ranging from easy, gentle rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation.
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling in the Lens region?
The Lens region offers a distinctive and varied terrain for road cycling. You'll encounter unique 'terrils' (slag heaps), which are artificial hills providing climbs and descents, as well as extensive green routes developed from former mining areas. The broader Artois hills also contribute to the varied landscape, offering rolling terrain and scenic views.
Are there challenging climbs for experienced road cyclists in Lens?
Yes, experienced road cyclists can find challenging climbs in the Lens area, particularly on and around the 'terrils'. These former mining spoil tips, like the terril du 11/19 in Loos-en-Gohelle, offer significant elevation gains and panoramic views. Routes such as Climb of Mons-en-Pévèle – Mons-en-Pévèle climb loop from Libercourt are rated as difficult, providing a good test for advanced riders.
Can I find easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Lens?
Absolutely. Lens offers a good selection of easy road cycling routes, perfect for beginners or those looking for a more relaxed ride. Many green routes and converted mining areas provide flatter, accessible paths. An example of an easy route is Vimy Ridge – Zivy Crater - Thelus loop from Liévin, which covers historical sites with gentle hills.
Are there circular road cycling routes around Lens?
Yes, many road cycling routes around Lens are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This includes popular options like Phalempin State Forest – Le pas Roland loop from Libercourt and Phalempin Forest – Phalempin State Forest loop from Ostricourt, which offer convenient circular journeys through varied landscapes.
What historical landmarks or cultural sites can I visit while cycling in Lens?
The Lens region is rich in history and culture. Cycling routes often pass by significant First World War memorials such as the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Notre Dame de Lorette cemetery. You can also explore the UNESCO-listed mining basin, with preserved sites like the Base 11/19 in Loos-en-Gohelle. The Louvre-Lens museum, built on a former coal mine, is another cultural highlight surrounded by a beautiful park.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints along road cycling routes in Lens?
For panoramic views, head to the 'terrils' (slag heaps) which are prominent features in the landscape. The terril du 11/19 in Loos-en-Gohelle, for instance, offers extensive vistas of the surrounding area. Another excellent spot is the View of the mining basin and the hills of Artois, providing a broad perspective of the region's unique blend of natural and industrial heritage.
What are the best times of year for road cycling in Lens?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Lens, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's advisable to cycle earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Winter can be cold and wet, making it less ideal for road cycling.
Is it possible to access road cycling routes in Lens using public transport?
While specific public transport connections to every trailhead may vary, Lens itself is well-connected by regional train services. From the city center, many routes are accessible, especially those utilizing the extensive network of green routes and converted mining paths. It's recommended to check local transport schedules for the most convenient access points to your chosen route.
Are there family-friendly road cycling options in the Lens area?
Yes, the region offers family-friendly road cycling options, particularly along the numerous green routes and converted mining areas. These paths are often flatter and provide a safer environment away from heavy traffic. The park surrounding the Louvre-Lens, for example, offers pleasant cycling opportunities for families.
What do other cyclists say about road cycling in Lens?
The road cycling routes in Lens are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 240 reviews. Cyclists often praise the unique landscape shaped by the 'terrils' and the historical significance of the routes, which offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural exploration.
Are there specific attractions or natural monuments worth seeing near the cycling routes?
Beyond the historical sites, the region boasts several natural monuments that are worth exploring. The Leforest slag heap and Loos-en-Gohelle slag heap are notable examples, offering unique landscapes and challenging ascents. The Parc de la Glissoire, an old mining pithead, is now a large park with a viewpoint overlooking the twin slag heaps of Loos-en-Gohelle.
Where can I find parking for road cycling routes in Lens?
Parking is generally available near many of the starting points for road cycling routes, especially in towns and villages surrounding Lens. For routes that begin in or near larger parks or attractions like the Louvre-Lens, dedicated parking facilities are often provided. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations.
Most popular routes around Lens
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