The best traffic-free bike rides around Masny

There are over 50 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Masny, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the region's diverse landscapes away from cars.

Many routes will take you past beautiful natural features. A prominent one is Étang des Argales, a large lake formed from a former mining site, perfect for scenic loops. You can also explore the Towpath Along the Scarpe, offering flat, unpaved paths alongside the river.

Yes, for those interested in history, you can incorporate a visit to the stone that grows, a prehistoric megalith, into your ride. The region's industrial heritage also means you might encounter unique landscapes like the converted routes of former coal mines and terrils, such as Terril des Argales.

Absolutely. Masny offers a good selection of easy gravel routes, with 21 trails specifically categorized as 'easy'. These often include flat towpaths and well-maintained paths, making them ideal for families or those new to gravel biking. A great example is the Bridge Over the Scarpe loop from Somain.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse trail network that allows them to escape busy roads, the unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage, and the peaceful experience of riding along towpaths and through forests.

Yes, the region is well-known for its towpaths, particularly along the Scarpe River. These paths provide excellent, flat, and traffic-free gravel biking opportunities. Consider the Scarpe towpath – Scarpe towpath loop from Somain for a dedicated canal path experience.

Many of the gravel routes in Masny are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point without retracing your steps. For instance, the Trouée d'Arenberg – Étang des Argales loop from Montigny-en-Ostrevent offers a comprehensive circular ride.

Yes, parking is generally available in towns and villages that serve as common starting points for these routes. For example, The Orangery Castle is noted as a parking location, which can be a convenient spot to begin your adventure.

You can expect a varied terrain, typical of gravel biking. This includes unpaved paths along rivers, forest tracks, and converted industrial routes. While generally not overly technical, some trails, like parts of the Witches' Singletrack, offer a more engaging off-road experience suitable for gravel bikes.

Yes, for more experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are 32 moderate and 5 difficult routes available. These longer routes, such as the Étang des Argales – Marchiennes State Forest loop from Somain, often cover greater distances and may include more varied elevation or slightly more technical sections, all while remaining traffic-free.