The best cycling routes around Sains-Lès-Marquion
4.4
(53)
420
riders
89
rides
Touring cycling around Sains-Lès-Marquion offers routes through the gently rolling landscape of northern France, characterized by agricultural fields, historical sites, and the Canal du Nord. The terrain is generally flat to moderately undulating, with occasional low hills providing varied cycling experiences. This region, part of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais, features a network of quiet country roads and canal-side paths, ideal for exploring historical memorials and local villages.
Best touring cycling routes around Sains-Lès-Marquion
- The most popular touring cycling route is Chemin du…
Last updated: July 16, 2026
4.0
(1)
8
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
15.7km
01:12
30m
30m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
12
riders
35.9km
02:11
120m
120m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
riders
47.1km
03:41
320m
320m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
8
riders
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
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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Parts of this gigantic abbey are interesting to visit. The church has disappeared but must have been enormous. Beautiful garden and shop with, among other things, abbey beer.
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The British cemetery of Sains-les-Marquion contains the graves of 255 soldiers who died during the First World War, mainly Canadians who liberated the village from German occupation in September 1918. You can admire the architecture of the cemetery, designed by W C Von Berg, and pay tribute to fallen heroes.
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The Thun Leveque lock is a double lock located on the Scheldt canal, between the municipalities of Thun-l'Évêque and Iwuy, in the Nord department. It allows boats to overcome a difference in height of 2.5 meters between the two reaches of the canal. It is part of a series of five double locks which were built between 1825 and 1830 to improve navigation on the canalized Scheldt1. The Thun Leveque lock has been classified as a historic monument since 19922. It is surrounded by a landscaped park which dates from the 19th century and which belongs to the domain of the Château de Hamel, an 18th century residence which is also protected as architectural heritage3. The Thun Leveque lock is a place of passage and discovery for boaters, cyclists and hikers who use the Scheldt canal or the greenway which runs along it.
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Vaucelles Abbey is a former monastery of Cistercian monks. Founded in 1131 by Saint Bernard himself.
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Super rolling gravel path, ideal for Gravel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Sains-Lès-Marquion?
There are over 85 touring cycling routes in the Sains-Lès-Marquion area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the region offers 35 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a more relaxed ride is the Cantimpre Canadian Cemetery loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame, which is 11.2 miles (18.1 km) long and leads through historical sites.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Sains-Lès-Marquion?
The terrain around Sains-Lès-Marquion is generally flat to moderately undulating, characterized by gently rolling agricultural fields and canal-side paths. You'll find occasional low hills that add variety to the cycling experience, but no major climbs.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For those seeking a more demanding ride, there are 10 difficult routes. One challenging option is the Canal du Nord – Lock No 4 – Canadian Bourlon Wood Memorial loop from Marquion, a 40.7 miles (65.5 km) path featuring sections along the Canal du Nord and through the historic Bourlon Wood area.
What are the typical lengths and durations of touring cycling routes in this area?
Route lengths vary significantly. Easy routes like the Cantimpre Canadian Cemetery loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame are around 11 miles (18 km) and take about 1 hour 15 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the Chemin du Canal – Hermies Hill British Cemetery loop from Boursies, can be up to 29 miles (47 km) and take nearly 4 hours to complete.
What historical sites or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The region is rich in history, particularly related to war memorials. Many routes pass by significant sites. You can also explore local landmarks such as The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone, The Big Rock, and the stone that grows. The Canal du Nord itself is a prominent feature with its locks, like Cantimpré Lock.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Sains-Lès-Marquion?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Canal du Nord – Lock No 4 – Lock No. 3 loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame and the Vaucelles Abbey – Bel-Aise cobblestone loop from Fontaine-Notre-Dame.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Sains-Lès-Marquion?
The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in this part of northern France. The agricultural landscapes are vibrant, and the canal paths are particularly enjoyable during these seasons.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Sains-Lès-Marquion?
The touring cycling routes in Sains-Lès-Marquion are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Cyclists often praise the tranquil canal paths, the historical significance of the area, and the open agricultural landscapes that define the region.
Is it possible to find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While the routes primarily traverse quiet country roads and canal paths, many pass through local villages where you can often find small cafes, bakeries, or shops to refuel and take a break. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify potential stops.
Are the touring cycling routes in Sains-Lès-Marquion generally crowded?
The region is known for its quiet country roads and canal-side paths, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a less crowded cycling experience. While popular routes might see more activity, many options offer a peaceful ride through the agricultural landscape.
Most popular routes around Sains-Lès-Marquion
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