The best traffic-free bike rides around Marcoing
4.3
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2,085
riders
11
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No traffic road cycling routes around Marcoing are characterized by a landscape shaped by waterways and wooded sectors. The region is traversed by the Canal de Saint Quentin, the Escaut river, and the Eauette, which often feature accompanying towpaths. These areas provide generally flat to gently undulating terrain, suitable for various cycling abilities. Wooded sections like Bois Couillet and cultivated plains offer diverse scenery for road cyclists.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Marcoing
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Vaucelles Abbey loop from Masnières, a 12.2 miles (19.6 km) easy trail that takes 49 minutes to complete. This route passes by the historic Vaucelles Abbey, offering a cultural point of interest.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Cantaing-sur-Escaut Lock – Thun-l'Évêque loop from Masnières, a moderate 32.2 miles (51.8 km) path. This route follows the scenic canal and river systems, providing a mix of open views and waterside riding.
- Local road cyclists also love the Roadbike loop from Rumilly-en-Cambrésis, a 6.7 miles (10.8 km) trail leading through cultivated plains and rural landscapes, often completed in about 26 minutes.
- Road cycling around Marcoing is defined by its extensive network of paths along canals and rivers, wooded areas, and cultivated plains. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more moderate distances.
- The routes in Marcoing are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from more than 30 reviews. More than 1,500 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Marcoing's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 2, 2026
27
riders
39.0km
01:38
270m
270m
Moderate road ride. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
102km
04:22
850m
850m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
50.5km
02:11
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
8
riders
54.0km
02:18
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(2)
7
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Marcoing
Tips from the Community
Short stop for history.
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Pleasant canal with a good number of locks.
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For bikepacking trips, A magnificent base for cycle touring. It's a place steeped in history, peaceful, and surrounded by lush greenery. Don't miss the hamlet of Revelon or a visit to the source of the Scheldt River in Gouy (right next door). Happy riding! 🚴♀️ Franck
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Some very beautiful remains to discover during a hike 😉.
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This watering trough is probably a distant legacy of the Cistercian monks of Vaucelles. Nestled in the pastures surrounding the farm, it is fed by the nearby fountain, which filters the water and is itself fed by water from the Saint-Bernard spring, via an aqueduct. Hence the name of the bicycle trail "des sources" 😎.
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The Écluse de Selles in Cambrai is a historic lock located on the Scheldt River. This lock dates back to the 18th century and is one of many locks in the region that were built to manage the waterways and facilitate navigation. The lock is located near the Château de Selles, a medieval castle originally built in the 13th century and later modified and expanded. The castle and lock are important historical monuments in Cambrai and attract many visitors interested in the history and heritage of the region.
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The Château d'Esnes is a historic castle located in the picturesque French village of Esnes. Dating back to the 18th century, the castle is surrounded by lush gardens and a charming park, giving it a picturesque and peaceful feel. The Château d'Esnes is known for its classical architecture, with impressive facades and elegant interiors that reflect the grandeur of that time.
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This Cistercian abbey was founded in 1132 by Bernard of Clairvaux and grew into a large and influential community within a century. Royal armies camped there as in a fortress and Charles V signed peace with Henry II in 1556. In addition to the sick and outcasts, travellers and pilgrims also found shelter in the hospital. The largest abbey church in Europe stood here with an extraordinary length of 135 metres. On feast days, 3000 meals were provided to the needy in the wide area. After the French Revolution, it was declared national property and an inglorious end followed as an open-air quarry. Now, restored parts remain, such as the abbot's palace with the dormitories and monks' halls with the chapter house next to it. The 7-hectare abbey park is being restored to its former glory. Open March to November (Tue-Sat 10am-12pm and 2pm-5.30pm, Sun 3pm-6.30pm, closed Mondays).
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Marcoing?
Marcoing offers a wide selection of no-traffic road cycling routes, with over 260 tours available. The majority are moderate, but there are also nearly 60 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no-traffic road cycling routes in Marcoing?
The terrain around Marcoing is generally flat to gently undulating, making it ideal for road cycling. Many routes follow the picturesque towpaths along the Canal de Saint Quentin, the Escaut (Scheldt) river, and the Eauette river, providing smooth and scenic rides.
Are there any easy, shorter no-traffic road cycling routes for beginners or families?
Yes, there are many easy routes suitable for beginners. For example, the Roadbike loop from Rumilly-en-Cambrésis is an easy 10.8 km ride, and the Roadbike loop from Masnières offers a gentle 13.5 km option.
What are some notable landmarks or points of interest I can see along these routes?
You can integrate several historical and natural points of interest into your rides. Consider visiting the historic Vaucelles Abbey, or the impressive Belfry of Cambrai, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Cantimpré Lock on the canal also offers a scenic stop.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic road cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For those seeking a longer ride, the Cantaing-sur-Escaut Lock – Thun-l'Évêque loop from Masnières is a moderate 51.7 km route that offers a good distance while still enjoying traffic-free sections along the waterways.
What do other cyclists say about the no-traffic road cycling routes in Marcoing?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling experience around Marcoing, with an average score of 4.3 stars from 39 ratings. Cyclists often praise the peaceful routes along the canals and rivers, as well as the charming natural scenery.
Can I find routes that pass through wooded areas or offer diverse scenery?
Yes, beyond the waterways, Marcoing is bordered by wooded sectors like 'Bois Couillet'. These areas, along with cultivated plains and bocages, provide a diverse natural setting for exploration, offering shaded paths and varied landscapes for your ride.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Many of the routes around Marcoing are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Vaucelles Abbey loop from Masnières, an easy 19.5 km circular tour.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Marcoing?
The region's flat terrain and scenic waterways make it enjoyable for cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural colors, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Are the no-traffic routes well-suited for a leisurely ride with stops at attractions?
Absolutely. The gentle gradients and scenic nature of these routes, especially those along the canals, are perfect for leisurely rides. You can easily plan stops at attractions like the Porte Notre-Dame de Cambrai or simply enjoy the tranquility of the waterways and wooded areas.
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