The best traffic-free bike rides around La Vallée-Au-Blé

There are 18 dedicated no traffic touring cycling routes around La Vallée-Au-Blé. These include 5 easy routes, 11 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels.

The routes in La Vallée-Au-Blé and the surrounding Thiérache region feature a picturesque "bocage" landscape. This means you'll cycle through rolling terrain with small fields enclosed by hedges and woods, generally at low altitudes (164 to 186 meters). The Axe Vert de la Thiérache, for example, follows a former railway track, providing a smooth path through diverse landscapes.

Yes, several routes are suitable for families. The region's low-altitude, rolling terrain and dedicated cycle paths make it accessible. An easy option is the Old locomotive – Picnic loop from Flavigny-le-Grand-et-Beaurain, which is just over 10 km long and offers a gentle ride.

The routes often pass by historical and natural points of interest. You can discover unique fortified churches, characteristic of the Thiérache region. Along the Ohis Railway Viaduct – Old railroad loop from Erloy, you'll encounter the impressive Old railroad infrastructure. The Old railroad – Lavoir de Malzy loop from Proisy takes you past the historic Lavoir de Malzy. Many routes also offer views of the Oise river valley, with spots like the Oise Riverside Picnic and Swimming Spot near Autreppes.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from 50 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil, rural nature of the routes, the well-maintained paths like the Axe Vert de la Thiérache, and the blend of natural beauty with historical discoveries, particularly the fortified churches and charming villages.

Yes, the region is traversed by the EuroVelo 3 route, also known as the Scandibérique in France. This major long-distance route utilizes dedicated cycle paths and low-traffic secondary roads. A challenging option that incorporates part of this route is the Axe Vert de la Thiérache – Along the EuroVelo3 loop from Vervins, which spans over 150 km.

The best time to visit for touring cycling is typically from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, making for comfortable riding conditions through the region's green landscapes. The "bocage" scenery is particularly vibrant in spring and summer.

Yes, many of the no traffic routes around La Vallée-Au-Blé are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Axe Vert de la Thiérache – Old Marly-sur-Oise Station loop from Marly-Gomont, offering a moderate 41 km circular ride.

While specific cafes or pubs are not detailed for every route, the charming villages along the routes, such as those near Vervins and Guise, offer opportunities to sample local produce like Maroilles cheese and cider. The Old Marly-sur-Oise Station, for instance, is listed as a restaurant highlight, indicating potential refreshment stops.

The Thiérache region, while rural, has some public transport options connecting its towns. For detailed information on public transport access to specific starting points for cycling routes, it's advisable to consult local transport schedules. For general information on cycling in the region, you can refer to Tourisme Thiérache à Vélo.

Many of the routes start from villages or towns that typically offer public parking. For example, routes originating from Marly-Gomont, Erloy, Vervins, Flavigny-le-Grand-et-Beaurain, or Proisy would likely have parking available within the village centers, allowing easy access to the trails.