The best traffic-free bike rides around Harnes
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6,252
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118
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No traffic road cycling routes around Harnes explore a landscape primarily characterized by its network of canals, agricultural plains, and gentle rolling terrain. The region features greenways and former towpaths, offering car-free cycling opportunities. While generally flat, some routes include minor elevation changes, particularly around areas like Parc d'Olhain.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Harnes
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Ruins of Mont-Saint-Eloi Abbey – Abbey of Mont Saint-Éloi loop from Pont-à-Vendin, a…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
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75
riders
102km
04:26
640m
640m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
20
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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19
riders
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
7
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
8
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Harnes
Tips from the Community
The battle of Fromelles on 19 July 1916 was a bloody initiation for Australian soldiers to warfare on the Western Front. Soldiers of the newly arrived 5th Australian Division, together with the British 61st Division, were ordered to attack strongly fortified German front line positions near the Aubers Ridge in French Flanders. The attack was intended as a feint to hold German reserves from moving south to the Somme where a large Allied offensive had begun on 1 July. The feint was a disastrous failure. Australian and British soldiers assaulted over open ground in broad daylight and under direct observation and heavy fire from the German lines. Over 5,500 Australians became casualties. Almost 2,000 of them were killed in action or died of wounds and some 400 were captured. This is believed to be the greatest loss by a single division in 24 hours during the entire First World War. Some consider Fromelles the most tragic event in Australia’s history. https://www.awm.gov.au/articles/encyclopedia/fromelles
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The ruins of the old church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire are an impressive and symbolic remnant of the First World War. This church, built in the 16th century in flamboyant Gothic style by Jacques Le Caron, was heavily damaged during the fighting in 1915. The ruins have been preserved as a monument to commemorate the horrors of war.
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This British cemetery and memorial were built in memory of the Australian soldiers who died during the Battle of Fromelles on 19-20 July 1916. There are 410 Australian soldiers buried here, none of whom have been identified. Although the graves are individual, they are not marked with individual headstones, but the names of some 1,200 missing are recorded on the Memorial, a memorial wall at the rear of the cemetery. Two large concrete crosses have been placed on the grassed area. In front of the memorial wall is the Cross of Sacrifice.
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Near the front line in 1916, a fierce battle was fought between the British (Australians) and the Germans. To commemorate 'la bataille' and the wounded who were brought back from the battlefield, a monument/statue was erected here.
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A remarkable story about the ruins concerns the decision not to rebuild the church after the war. Although the church had been classified as a historical monument in 1908, the Commission for Historical Monuments decided that the ruins should remain as a testimony to the German destruction. Ironically, it was the French guns that had destroyed the church, but the ruins became a symbol of the war and the reconstruction.
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The Musée de la Bataille de Fromelles is dedicated to the Battle of Fromelles of 19–20 July 1916, which pitted British and Australian troops against a Bavarian division. The museum offers a comprehensive exhibition on the battle, the 2009 archaeological excavations that unearthed the bodies of 250 soldiers, and the identification campaign that followed.
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Anecdote: During the battle, Sergeant Simon Fraser heard a wounded soldier cry out, "Don't forget me, cobber!" Despite the danger, Fraser returned to the battlefield to save the man, an act of bravery that was later immortalized in the statue. This event emphasizes the sacrifice and strong bond between soldiers during the horrors of war.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Harnes?
There are over 110 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes. These routes offer a variety of distances and terrains, ensuring a pleasant and safe experience away from vehicular traffic.
What are the difficulty levels of the no-traffic road cycling routes near Harnes?
The routes around Harnes cater to various skill levels. You'll find 17 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 83 moderate routes offering a good balance of challenge and enjoyment, and 13 difficult routes for experienced cyclists seeking a more demanding adventure.
What do other cyclists enjoy about no-traffic road cycling around Harnes?
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes, with an average score of 4.35 out of 5 stars. Cyclists often praise the peaceful environment, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to explore the region's natural beauty and historical sites without the disturbance of cars.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes?
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Ruins of Mont-Saint-Eloi Abbey – Abbey of Mont Saint-Éloi loop from Pont-à-Vendin offers a challenging circular ride, while the Fampoux - Canalized Scarpe – View of the Harnes Lagoons loop from Pont-à-Vendin provides a moderate option.
When is the best time of year to go road cycling around Harnes?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling around Harnes, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter cycling is possible, but be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
What kind of scenic views or natural features can I expect on these routes?
The no-traffic routes around Harnes often take you through diverse landscapes. You can expect to see tranquil canal paths, open countryside, and areas with historical significance. Some routes might offer views of the region's unique slag heaps, which are now often reforested and form part of the natural landscape, such as the Ostricourt slag heap or the Leforest slag heap.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the no-traffic routes?
Absolutely! Many routes pass by significant historical sites and natural monuments. You might encounter the impressive Canadian National Vimy Memorial, the Vimy Foundation Centennial Park, or the Loos-en-Gohelle slag heap. These offer great opportunities to pause and explore during your ride.
Are the no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes suitable for families?
Yes, many of the easy and moderate no-traffic routes are ideal for families. These paths often follow canal towpaths or dedicated greenways, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for cyclists of all ages. Look for routes with lower elevation gains for a more relaxed family outing.
Can I bring my dog on these no-traffic cycling routes?
While many greenways and canal paths are generally dog-friendly, it's always best to check local regulations for specific sections or parks. If you bring your dog, ensure they are on a leash and that you carry waste bags. Always be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians.
Where can I find parking near the no-traffic road cycling routes in Harnes?
Many popular starting points for these routes, especially those along greenways or near larger parks like Parc d'Olhain, offer designated parking areas. It's recommended to check the route details on komoot for specific parking information at the trailhead or starting point of your chosen ride.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the no-traffic road cycling routes for a break?
While the routes themselves are car-free, many pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, bakeries, and pubs to refuel. Planning your route with komoot allows you to identify points of interest, including places to eat and drink, along your chosen path.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes?
The no-traffic road cycling routes around Harnes primarily feature paved surfaces, making them ideal for road bikes. You'll find a mix of flat sections, particularly along canal paths, and some rolling hills, especially on routes like the Côte du parc d'Ohlain – Fresnicourt coast loop from Pont-à-Vendin, which includes more significant elevation changes.
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