The best traffic-free bike rides around Bousbecque
4.5
(1167)
10,521
riders
336
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Bousbecque are characterized by the flat, accessible terrain along the Lys River and its network of dedicated cycle paths. The region features a blend of open countryside, clear flowing streams, and meadows, offering a serene environment for cycling. Cyclists can navigate extensive networks of interconnected bike paths, including canal towpaths, which provide car-free environments. The landscape is generally gentle, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various cycling abilities.
Best no traffic touring…
Last updated: May 21, 2026
4.5
(49)
204
riders
26.3km
01:32
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(6)
119
riders
50.6km
03:26
100m
100m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
(13)
78
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
47
riders
72.3km
04:22
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(8)
89
riders
52.5km
03:05
260m
260m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Unfortunately, there are no more green paths in the vicinity. Let's leave this one rough and not pave it, please.
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asphalt cycle path.
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Of course, these are not the belfry and town hall of Tourcoing, as the name of the highlight initially indicated, but those of Menen. The belfry, incorporated into the town hall, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the Grote Markt. The historical function of this city tower was to warn of dangers such as fire with bells and to safely store important city documents. The foundation stone was laid in 1574 during the Wars of Religion. The building only acquired its current form in 1828. In the centuries before, the belfry was damaged several times. For example, during the siege of Menen in 1706, the spire was blown off. As a witness to a turbulent past, the 33-meter belfry still towers above the surrounding area today. It offers a magnificent view of Menen's city center and the border region. Beneath the belfry lies a bomb shelter from the Second World War. Source: information board on site
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Hill 60 is an authentic area from the First World War. The artificial hill, built in 1850, stood at a height of approximately 60 meters, hence the name Hill 60. Between 1914 and 1918, fierce fighting took place here between the Germans and the Allies. Starting in 1915, both sides dug tunnels under the hill in which mines were detonated. The explosion of the deep mines on June 7, 1917, created the current landscape of Hill 60. Many soldiers are still buried beneath this hill.
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Tyne Cot Cemetery is the largest Commonwealth cemetery in the world, located near Passchendaele. It was established in October 1917 and contains over 11,000 graves of soldiers who died during the First World War. The site was strategically important during the Battle of Passchendaele and was used as an advanced dressing station after its capture by the 3rd Australian Division on 4 October 1917. The cemetery was designed by Sir Herbert Baker and includes an impressive Cross of Sacrifice, built on a former German bunker. The cemetery was significantly expanded after the Armistice to include graves from nearby battlefields and smaller cemeteries.
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Mesen (also called Messines) is the smallest city in Belgium with only about 1075 inhabitants. Mesen has a rich history dating back to Roman times and played an important role in medieval trade, especially in the cloth and leather industry . The town is best known for the Battle of Mesen during the First World War, where it was a strategic location . Today, Mesen is home to several monuments and memorials, such as the New Zealand Division Memorial and the Irish Peace Tower, which commemorate the history and sacrifices of the soldiers during the war .
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An interesting anecdote concerns the explosion of one of the mines on 17 July 1955 by lightning. This mine had not been detonated during the war and was still underground. The explosion created a new crater and reminded the local population of the lasting impact of the war.
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The Spanbroekmolen crater, also known as the Pool of Peace, is an impressive mine crater in Wijtschate. This crater was formed on June 7, 1917, during the Second Battle of Messines, when British troops detonated 19 underground mines. The explosion created a crater 27 meters deep and 129 meters in diameter. After nearly 100 years of erosion, the crater is now a peaceful pool 12 meters deep and 76 meters in diameter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Bousbecque?
There are nearly 350 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Bousbecque, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. Over 170 of these are rated as easy, making them perfect for a relaxed ride.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these car-free cycling routes?
The routes around Bousbecque offer diverse landscapes, from the tranquil banks of the Lys and Bousbecque Rivers to picturesque rolling countryside, clear flowing streams, and meadows. You'll also find deciduous forests and flowering orchards, providing a scenic backdrop for your ride.
Are there any circular no-traffic cycling routes suitable for a full day out?
Yes, many routes are circular and can be combined for a full day. For example, the Old Leie – Broel Towers loop from Wervik offers over 62 km of moderate cycling, allowing you to explore the region without retracing your steps. Another great option is the Along the Lys – Leie River loop from Bousbecque, covering about 50 km.
What are some notable attractions or points of interest along the no-traffic routes?
Many routes follow the La Marque Canal Towpath, a dedicated cycleway. You can also visit the peaceful Port of Wambrechies. For history enthusiasts, the Hill 62 Canadian Memorial offers panoramic views and historical context, while the Zantvoorde British Cemetery provides a poignant stop.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites or castles?
Absolutely. While cycling, you might encounter local heritage sites like the Église Saint-Martin and the 19th-century Town Hall in Bousbecque. For a longer ride, consider the Lys–Yser Canal – Hill 60 Memorial loop from Wervik, which takes you past significant historical landmarks. You can also explore nearby castles such as Moeskroen Castle or the intriguing Polderhoek Château (Lost Castle).
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Bousbecque?
The Hauts-de-France region, including Bousbecque, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through autumn. Spring offers flowering orchards, while summer provides warm weather for longer rides. Autumn brings beautiful foliage to the deciduous forests. Winter cycling is possible, but check local conditions as some paths might be less maintained.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic routes?
Yes, there are over 170 easy routes around Bousbecque, many of which are flat and follow dedicated cycle paths like the La Marque Canal Towpath. These are ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride without significant elevation changes.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes around Bousbecque?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience around Bousbecque, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 1,100 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive network of car-free paths, the scenic river views, and the peaceful atmosphere that allows for a truly immersive outdoor experience.
Can I find routes that pass through forests or natural reserves?
Yes, the region offers routes that take you through natural settings. For instance, the Pont Rouge - La Leie - La Lys – Forest Path in Werwicq-Sud loop from Wervik incorporates forest sections. You can also find routes near natural beauty spots like Gasthuisbossen, providing opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna.
Is it possible to connect with wider cycling networks from Bousbecque?
Absolutely. Bousbecque is part of the wider Hauts-de-France region's 'points-nœuds' (node points) network, which spans over 500 miles and connects with Flemish and Walloonian counterparts. This allows you to design extensive itineraries and even link up with long-distance Eurovelo routes like the Scandibérique (Eurovelo 3) for broader exploration. For more information on the regional network, you can visit Hauts-de-France Tourism.
Are there any routes that follow river towpaths?
Many of the no-traffic routes in the area utilize the region's extensive network of river towpaths. The Towpath of the Lys – Pont Rouge loop from Wervik is a prime example, offering a flat and scenic ride along the Lys River, perfect for enjoying the tranquil waterside environment.
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