The best traffic-free bike rides around Wallers

There are over 300 dedicated traffic-free touring cycling routes around Wallers, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. This includes more than 160 easy routes, 100 moderate routes, and nearly 50 challenging options.

The no-traffic routes around Wallers often feature relatively flat terrain, making them ideal for relaxed touring. Many routes follow old railway lines (Voies Vertes) or canal towpaths, providing smooth, car-free surfaces. While generally flat, some routes might include gentle inclines, especially those exploring former mining areas like the terrils (spoil tips).

Yes, Wallers offers many family-friendly options, particularly the numerous easy-grade routes. These often utilize dedicated cycle paths or quiet country lanes, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages. Routes along the Scarpe towpath or around local ponds are typically very suitable for families.

Many of the traffic-free routes around Wallers are dog-friendly, especially those on wider paths like towpaths and Voies Vertes. Always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you carry water for them. Specific routes like those around Étang des Argales or Goriaux Pond are popular choices for cycling with pets.

The region around Wallers is rich in natural and historical features. You can cycle past beautiful lakes such as Étang des Argales and Goriaux Pond. The landscape is also dotted with unique natural monuments like the former mining spoil tips, known as terrils, including Terril des Argales and Terril 125 of Sainte-Marie, which offer panoramic views like the View from Terril Sabatier Nord.

Yes, many of the no-traffic touring routes around Wallers are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the easy Drève de Wallers – Gibus Bridge loop from Hasnon, which offers a pleasant 33 km ride.

The best time to cycle in Wallers is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, with less rainfall, making for comfortable touring conditions. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while spring and autumn provide beautiful scenery with fewer crowds.

Parking is generally available at the start points of many popular routes, especially in towns and villages near the Voies Vertes or canal towpaths. For example, you can often find parking near the starting points for routes like the Trouée d'Arenberg – Arenberg Creative Mine loop from Mine de Wallers-Arenberg.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.37 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility and safety of the car-free paths, the scenic beauty of the lakes and former mining landscapes, and the accessibility for all fitness levels. The well-maintained surfaces and clear signage also contribute to a positive experience.

While many routes are easy, there are options for more experienced cyclists seeking longer distances and moderate challenges. For example, the Trouée d'Arenberg – View of the Mare à Goriaux loop from Denain is a moderate 59 km route, and the View of the Mare à Goriaux – Belfry of Tournai loop from Wallers offers a challenging 130 km ride with significant elevation gain.

Yes, many routes pass through or near charming villages and towns where you can find cafes, bakeries, and restaurants for refreshments. For accommodation, look for options in Wallers itself or nearby towns like Saint-Amand-les-Eaux, which cater to visitors and cyclists. Planning your route in advance can help identify suitable stops.