The best cycling routes around Aisne
4.3
(1445)
9,934
riders
1,524
rides
Touring cycling around Aisne offers diverse landscapes, from flat routes along canals to more challenging climbs through forests and vineyards. The region features extensive river valleys, such as the Aisne and Marne, providing scenic paths. Cyclists can explore tranquil forests like Retz and Saint-Gobain, or the vineyard-covered hills in the southern part of the department. Terrain varies, including paved surfaces and unpaved sections along towpaths.
Best touring cycling routes around Aisne
- The most popular touring cycling route is Ribemont -…
Last updated: May 10, 2026
3.5
(2)
3
riders
31.6km
01:58
150m
150m
Cycle the easy 19.6-mile Ribemont - Canal de la Sambre à l'Oise Loop, enjoying scenic towpaths, historic locks, and the Bloucard Cliff.
4.4
(25)
165
riders
17.7km
01:10
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(10)
181
riders
29.9km
01:56
340m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(15)
108
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(15)
104
riders
42.3km
02:27
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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.
3.8
(5)
154
riders
19.0km
01:11
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
140
riders
46.7km
02:57
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(9)
46
riders
36.4km
02:15
250m
250m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(11)
42
riders
45.0km
03:01
400m
400m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Aisne
Tips from the Community
Attention, multi-track vehicles. A maximum of 80 cm wide can pass through. The wheel in the picture is 78 cm.
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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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On the eastern edge of the Chemin des Dames plateau lies the Ferme d’Hurtebise, a place that played a crucial role during both the Napoleonic Wars and the First World War. In 1814, it was the scene of the Battle of Craonne, and exactly a century later it again became a strategic junction in the struggle between French and German troops. From September 1914 onwards, fierce fighting took place here. The farm overlooked the Ailette and Aisne valleys, making it a fiercely contested observation post. French units, including Zouaves and the 12th and 49th Infantry Regiments, tried to hold or retake the farm, often with heavy losses. The family that owned the farm sheltered in the cellar for days while the building was under fire. After months of fighting and bombardment, the farm was reduced to ruins, crisscrossed by trenches. Today the site is a symbol of resistance and sacrifice, and is part of the Chemin des Dames memorial landscape.
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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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an absolute must... unfortunately I couldn't go in and see the windows from the inside.
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The Église Saint-Martin et Sainte Anne de Macquigny is one of the westernmost fortified churches in the region and is often considered part of the Thiérache. Built in the 12th century, it still retains elements of the original Romanesque structure, such as the south wall with two now bricked-up arcades and a simple entrance with the date "1501" indicating the fortification of the tower. The building has imposing buttresses and unique watchtowers with loopholes and machicolations. The choir was restored in 1754 and inside are 15th century baptismal fonts, a 16th century wooden statue of Christ and stained glass windows by master glassmaker Carl Mauméjean. Although the church is usually closed to the public, guided tours are organised by the municipality from April to September.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Aisne?
Aisne offers a wide variety of touring cycling routes, with over 1,500 options available. These routes cater to different skill levels, including easy, moderate, and difficult trails.
What are the different difficulty levels for touring cycling in Aisne?
The touring cycling routes in Aisne are categorized into three main difficulty levels: easy, moderate, and difficult. There are approximately 450 easy routes, over 830 moderate routes, and nearly 290 difficult routes, ensuring options for all experience levels. The terrain varies from flat canal paths to more challenging climbs in forested and vineyard areas.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Aisne?
The best times to visit Aisne for touring cycling are generally during late spring (May to June) and early fall (September to October). During these periods, the weather is mild, and the countryside is vibrant, offering ideal conditions for exploring the region's natural beauty and historical sites.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Aisne?
Yes, Aisne offers several family-friendly cycling options. Routes like the Voie Verte de l'Ailette are particularly suited for family bike rides due to their safety and absence of cars. Many easy routes, such as the Ribemont - Canal de la Sambre à l'Oise Loop, which follows the scenic Canal de la Sambre à l'Oise, are also great choices for families.
What kind of terrain can I expect when cycling in Aisne?
Aisne's cycling terrain is diverse, ranging from flat routes along canals and river valleys to more challenging climbs through lush forests and picturesque vineyards. You'll encounter a mix of paved surfaces and unpaved sections, particularly along towpaths. The region features 81 climbs, with elevations up to 261m above sea level, providing varied experiences for cyclists.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
Aisne is rich in history. Many routes pass by significant sites such as the medieval city of Laon with its hilltop cathedral, and various castles like the unfinished Château de La Ferté-Milon. You can also explore WWI memorials and battlefields, particularly along the Chemin des Dames. For example, the Monks' Pond – Ferme d'Hurtebise War Memorial loop from Laon integrates these poignant historical sites. The region also features charming villages like Parfondeval and unique structures like the Les Fantômes de Landowski.
Are there natural attractions to explore by bike in Aisne?
Absolutely. Aisne boasts extensive forests like Retz, Saint-Gobain, and Vauclar, offering tranquil cycling environments. The Aisne and Marne river valleys provide scenic routes, and the southern part of the department is known for its vineyards. You can also discover unique geological sites such as the Hottée du Diable forest with its unusual sandstone blocks, or visit the Source of the Somme.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or rivers?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Aisne feature scenic views of lakes and rivers. The region is characterized by its river valleys, including the Aisne and Marne. You can find routes that offer views of Lake Ailette, such as the Monks' Pond – View of Lake Ailette loop from Bourg-et-Comin, or pass by the tranquil Monks' Pond.
Are there long-distance cycling routes in Aisne?
Aisne is part of the EuroVelo 3 'Pilgrims Route,' making it an ideal thoroughfare for long-distance touring cyclists. Additionally, routes like the Along the EuroVelo3 – Familistère of Guise loop from La Jonqueuse offer a taste of these longer journeys, often incorporating sections of regional greenways.
What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Aisne?
The touring cycling routes in Aisne are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,400 reviews. More than 10,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the region. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the tranquility of the forests, and the well-maintained paths along canals and greenways.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Aisne?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Aisne are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. Examples include the Axe Vert de la Thiérache – Old Marly-sur-Oise Station loop from Marly-Gomont and the Ohis Railway Viaduct – Locomobile Salmson No. 3003 loop from Étréaupont, which offer convenient circular options for exploration.
Is public transport available to access cycling routes in Aisne?
While specific public transport options directly to every trailhead may vary, major towns in Aisne are generally well-connected by regional trains and buses. It's advisable to check local transport schedules and bike carriage policies in advance, especially if you plan to use public transport to reach your starting point or return from your destination.
Where can I find parking for my car when starting a cycling tour?
Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as common starting points for cycling routes in Aisne. Many routes begin near public parking areas, especially in proximity to popular attractions or greenways. For specific routes, it's recommended to check the route details on komoot, as users often share information about parking availability in the comments or descriptions.
Most popular routes around Aisne
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