The best walks and hikes around Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise

There are over 15 hiking routes in the Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise area, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find a mix of easy, moderate, and difficult trails to explore the region's rural landscapes.

Yes, Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise offers several easy routes. While specific easy routes aren't highlighted in the top picks, the region's gentle hills and countryside paths make many sections suitable for a relaxed pace. Look for routes under 5 miles (8 km) for a more leisurely experience.

Hikes around Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise vary in length, from shorter paths of around 6-7 miles (10-11 km) taking about 3 hours, to longer, more challenging routes extending up to 17 miles (28 km) which can take over 7 hours to complete. Most routes fall into the moderate category, typically between 7-12 miles (11-20 km).

The region's gentle terrain and well-maintained paths make many routes suitable for families. For a moderate option that explores the local countryside, consider the St Pol sur Ternoise loop from Saint-Pol-sur-Ternoise, which is about 7.5 miles (12.1 km) long and offers a mix of open fields and quiet paths.

Many of the rural paths and trails in the Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise area are dog-friendly, especially those through open countryside and woodlands. Always ensure your dog is under control, and be mindful of agricultural land and any local signage regarding livestock or protected areas.

Yes, many of the hiking routes around Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Le Mont loop from Saint-Pol-sur-Ternoise, a 7.1-mile (11.4 km) trail through gentle hills and agricultural land.

The trails often lead through open countryside, agricultural fields, and scattered woodlands. You might encounter historical points of interest or natural features like the La Comté Waterfall. The region is known for its rural charm and tranquil landscapes.

Yes, the area around Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise has some interesting historical sites. You could visit the Bours Keep, a medieval fortress, or explore the town of St Pol sur Ternoise itself, which has its own historical character. Some routes, like the difficult Cross on the outskirts of Brias – Ruins of Moulin Blanc loop, pass through areas with historical significance.

The best time for hiking in Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise is generally from spring to autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and the countryside is in full bloom or displaying autumnal colors. Winter hikes are also possible, but paths might be muddy, and daylight hours are shorter.

The hiking trails in Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers often praise the peaceful rural landscapes, the variety of terrain, and the well-marked paths that make exploring the region enjoyable.

For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, there are a couple of difficult routes. The Cross on the outskirts of Brias – Ruins of Moulin Blanc loop from Brias is a demanding 17.4-mile (28 km) trail with significant elevation gain, offering a comprehensive exploration of the rural landscape.

Given the rural nature of the Saint-Pol-Sur-Ternoise area, parking is generally available near the starting points of many trails, especially in or around the main town and smaller villages. It's advisable to check specific route details for designated parking areas.