The best walks and hikes around Liévin
4.6
(580)
3,159
hikers
33
hikes
Hiking around Liévin offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage within the former Nord-Pas de Calais mining basin. The landscape is characterized by transformed mining sites, known as terrils or slag heaps, which now provide elevated perspectives and trails. Significant green spaces, such as the Riaumont Woods, offer tranquil retreats with well-maintained paths amidst diverse flora. This region provides a distinctive backdrop for outdoor activities, combining reclaimed industrial areas with natural havens.
Best hiking trails around Liévin
- The most popular hiking route is Canadian Memorial – Heather Wood loop from Cité des Bouviers, a 9.7 miles (15.7 km) trail that takes 4 hours 11 minutes to complete. This moderate trail takes hikers through both natural and historical sites.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Pinchonvalles spoil tip. loop from Liévin, an easy 4.1 miles (6.7 km) path. This path offers accessible routes on a reclaimed industrial landscape, suitable for various fitness levels.
- Local hikers also love the Glissoire Pond and Stream – Mining Basin Greenway loop from Liévin, a 9.2 miles (14.8 km) trail leading through the Mining Basin Greenway, often completed in about 3 hours 51 minutes.
- Hiking around Liévin is defined by reclaimed industrial landscapes, terrils, and tranquil green spaces like Riaumont Woods. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
- The routes in Liévin are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 560 reviews. More than 3000 hikers have used komoot to explore Liévin's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 27, 2026
4.6
(9)
72
hikers
15.6km
04:11
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
68
hikers
4.79km
01:22
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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4.0
(5)
48
hikers
6.66km
01:44
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
26
hikers
15.1km
03:57
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
26
hikers
6.38km
01:39
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Very interesting place to learn about the industrial history of the city
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Before the Canadians captured Vimy Ridge from the Germans in April 1917, other soldiers had already set foot there but were unable to hold their ground due to a lack of reinforcements and sufficient artillery support. These "forerunners" were the Moroccan Zouaves and riflemen, wearing red chechias and baggy trousers, accompanied in the Moroccan Division by Foreign Legion volunteers from 52 countries. To the men of the Moroccan Division who set out to assault Vimy Ridge On the morning of May 9, 1915, they broke through the German lines, crossed Folie Wood, and reached Vimy Ridge. To track their advance and adjust artillery fire, squares of white cloth were sewn to their backs, making them prime targets for the Germans on their flank. Furthermore, the artillery was running low on ammunition, and reinforcements were not forthcoming: the order to withdraw came in the evening. The Moroccan soldiers were forced to abandon the conquered ground at the cost of heavy losses. The riflemen of the Moroccan Division were among the approximately 820,000 men mobilized in French colonies or protectorates during the First World War, including 636,000 sent to France as soldiers or laborers. Of the 449,000 engaged in combat, the majority came from Algeria (150,000), and the rest from sub-Saharan Africa (135,000), Indochina (43,000), Tunisia (39,000), and Morocco (34,000). 70,000 of them would perish on French soil. Plaques affixed to the monument pay tribute to other French army fighters from Greece, Sudan and Czechoslovakia.
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The Vimy Memorial is the most prestigious Canadian monument in Europe. It is located on the very site of the 1917 fighting near Vimy in the Pas-de-Calais region of France. Erected on the highest point of the hill, Hill 145, the objective of the operations that began on April 9, 1917, it overlooks the Douai Plain. In 1921, architect and sculptor Walter S. Allward (1875-1955) won the competition from the Canadian Battlefield Memorials Commission. The significance of the battles at the site and the favorable location at the top of the hill allowed Vimy to receive the most prestigious work.
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The Canadian National Vimy Memorial (Vimy, Pas-de-Calais department) is a memorial dedicated to those who were missing or killed in World War I in the Canadian Expeditionary Force. The monument is located on the site of a well-preserved or partially reconstructed battlefield, including trenches and tunnels. Guided tours are offered in French and English, there are several memorials, a permanent and a temporary exhibition, a museum shop and a marked hiking trail that conveys the history of the site.
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I went there late one evening, a calm that does you good, a great panorama night and day
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beautiful journey, beautiful scenery
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there in Liévin?
There are over 35 hiking trails around Liévin, offering a diverse range of experiences from easy strolls to more challenging routes. You'll find options suitable for various fitness levels and interests.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes around Liévin?
The terrain around Liévin is unique, characterized by a blend of reclaimed industrial landscapes and tranquil natural areas. You'll encounter 'terrils' (slag heaps) which offer elevated perspectives, as well as green spaces like the Riaumont Woods with well-maintained paths. The region's mining heritage is a constant backdrop, transforming into natural beauty.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Liévin?
Yes, Liévin offers 17 easy hiking trails perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Pinchonvalles spoil tip. loop from Liévin, an easy 6.7 km path that provides accessible routes across a reclaimed industrial landscape.
Can I find circular walks in the Liévin area?
Many of the trails around Liévin are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Canadian Memorial – Heather Wood loop from Cité des Bouviers is a 15.7 km loop, and the Glissoire Pond and Stream – Mining Basin Greenway loop from Liévin is another popular circular option.
What are the main natural features or landmarks to look out for while hiking in Liévin?
Hikers in Liévin can explore the distinctive 'terrils' (slag heaps) like the Terril de Pinchonvalles, which offer panoramic views. You'll also find serene green spaces such as the Riaumont Woods. The region's industrial past is visible through sites like the Saint-Amé coal mine, with its 43-meter-high headframe, and the iron headframe of the Fosse n° 1 - 1 bis, marking the first coal mine in the area.
Are there any lakes or ponds accessible from hiking trails in Liévin?
Yes, several hiking routes in Liévin pass by or lead to beautiful water features. You can explore areas around Marsh Pond, Marais de la Galance, or Etang de Wingles. The Glissoire Pond and Stream – Mining Basin Greenway loop from Liévin specifically highlights a pond and stream along its path.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Liévin?
The hiking trails in Liévin are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 560 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse options available for all skill levels, from tranquil woods to elevated terrils with views.
Are there any historical sites or monuments along the hiking routes?
Absolutely. Liévin's history is deeply intertwined with its landscape. Many trails traverse the former Nord-Pas de Calais mining basin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can encounter historical sites like the Vimy Ridge Shell Craters and the Vimy Foundation Centennial Park. The region's mining past is also evident in structures like the Saint-Amé coal mine headframe.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Liévin?
Liévin offers pleasant hiking experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming flora or vibrant fall colors. Summer is also suitable, especially in the shaded areas of the Riaumont Woods. Even in winter, some trails on the terrils can offer unique, crisp views, though conditions may vary.
Are there any moderate hiking trails for those looking for a bit more challenge?
Yes, Liévin has 13 moderate hiking trails that offer a good balance of distance and elevation. A popular choice is the Canadian Memorial – Heather Wood loop from Cité des Bouviers, a 15.7 km trail with an elevation gain of 180 meters, taking approximately 4 hours to complete.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Liévin?
Many trails in Liévin are dog-friendly, especially those in natural areas like the Riaumont Woods and the reclaimed terrils. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near agricultural land, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
Are there any trails that offer good viewpoints or panoramic vistas?
The 'terrils' (slag heaps) are the primary locations for panoramic views in Liévin. These man-made hills, now covered in vegetation, provide elevated perspectives over the surrounding landscape, including the former mining basin. The Spoil heaps 74 and 74a – The 11/19 pit loop from Loos-en-Gohelle is an example of a trail that takes you over these unique elevated features.
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