Cycling in the Avesnois region: nature, heritage and local flavors
In summary
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Sports
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Duration2 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationHauts-de-France / North
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AgeFrom 8 - 90 years
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CO₂-Emissions16.5 kg CO2
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Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Embark on a two-day cycling adventure in the heart of the Avesnois Regional Natural Park and the Hainaut countryside. This touring trip takes you along 90 km of picturesque roads , winding through forests, authentic villages, and historical sites . Your adventure begins with the discovery of Le Quesnoy , a fortified town surrounded by magnificent ramparts . You'll continue your journey through the Mormal Forest , the largest in the region, before exploring the iconic village of Maroilles , famous for its cheese and typical charm. Between unspoiled nature and local culture , this route offers an immersion into the soul of the Hauts-de-France region . And to complete this experience, dinner in a traditional estaminet , a true local institution, awaits you, where you can savor local specialties in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. An ideal trip for those new to cycle touring , combining sport, discovery, and gastronomy , all amidst rejuvenating landscapes.
The highlights
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Exploring the Avesnois Regional Natural Park by bike
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Crossing the majestic Mormal Forest
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Relax amidst the hidden waterfalls of Hainaut-Avesnois
Photos
Sport
Level
Leisure Cycling
For those wishing to cycle around 40 km a day over gently rolling terrain. The route follows cycle paths and greenways for the most part. A trip suitable for families and occasional cyclists.
In figures
PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Average duration/day: 4h
- Average distance/day: 48 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 178 m
- Predominant type of terrain : Road
Program
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From Famars to Maroilles: between fortifications and nature
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 3h30
- Distance 45 km
- Positive elevation gain 185 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Accommodation Bed and Breakfast
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Starting from Famars , a few kilometers south of Valenciennes, you pass the restored castle before venturing into the countryside of Hainaut . This region, traversed each spring by a section of the legendary Paris-Roubaix , offers landscapes typical of the race.
After passing through Le Quesnoy , a fortified town with imposing ramparts , you can stroll along its walls before continuing south. Your route then takes you to the Mormal Forest , where the arboretum will delight nature lovers.
At the end of the day, you reach Maroilles , renowned for its famous AOC cheese. Before evening, a break by the mill built on the Helpe Mineure river will offer you a moment of relaxation in the heart of this peaceful setting.
Day 1 -
From Maroilles to Avesnois: between river and valleys
- Activity PRIVATE HIRE VEHICLE
- Duration of the activity 4h
- Distance 50 km
- Positive elevation gain 170 m
- Predominant type of terrain Road
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
You continue your journey towards the Mormal forest , before following the Sambre river for several kilometers. The route offers beautiful nature breaks, ideal for a picnic by the water or a meal in one of the local inns .
Continuing north through the Avesnois region , the route becomes hillier and passes through several picturesque villages . Among old mills, wash houses , and winding country lanes, you'll enjoy an authentic atmosphere. Along the way, a few secluded waterfalls will surprise you, adding an unexpected touch to this final section of the itinerary.
Day 2
Accommodation
You will be staying in a bed and breakfast. The accommodations have been carefully selected for their quality, the warm welcome they offer, and their ability to securely store bicycles overnight. Furthermore, they are located near a restaurant. You won't need to cycle to dinner, as the restaurant is only 500 meters from the room.
Access
There is no strict end-of-stay time requirement if you are using your own bikes.
Bikes must be returned by 5:00 PM if rented.
Go to the starting point
The starting point is at the Valenciennes tram terminus (Université de Famars stop). Free public parking.
Upon request, the departure can also take place in front of the Valenciennes TER train station. The two cycling stages will then be extended by 7 kilometers.
From the A23 coming from Lille or Paris, exit at Universités Mont Houy (exit 21 A) and follow Université Mont Houy (Famars).
Price details
The price includes
- A video presentation of the trip and how to use the application
- The digital roadbook via the Roadbook for Discovery app
- Bed and breakfast accommodation, in a double room
- Breakfast
- Dinner in a traditional restaurant in the heart of Maroilles
- 7/7 support
The price does not include
- Bike rental (electric or traditional hybrid bikes, your choice, with different sizes available and equipment included)
- Luggage transfer (optional)
- Lunches
- Drinks
- Personal expenses
Options
- Luggage transfer : CHF54.89 / person
- Luggage transfer : CHF109.78 / person
- Bike rental - Hybrid bike - Adult : CHF74.10 / person
- Bike rental - E-bike - Adult : CHF128.99 / person
- Bike rental - 24-inch mountain bikes - Children under 1.50m : CHF41.17 / person
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
Upon arrival, if you have chosen the bicycle option, the service provider will provide you with:
- 1 traditional bicycle or electric-assist bicycle adapted to your height
- 1 helmet
- 1 smartphone holder
- 2 pairs of rear panniers for adult bicycles
- 1 anti-theft device
- Essentials for simple repairs: inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tool, rag
Equipment to bring
- Smartphone and phone charger + external charger, as the navigation app drains the battery quickly.
- Smartphone holder
- Sunscreen
- Payment methods for various purchases along the route (meals and other items)
- Small first aid kit
- Essentials for the picnic if needed (knife, corkscrew, etc.)
- Toiletry bag
Clothing to bring
- Clothing suitable for cycling
- For optimal comfort, consider a pair of gloves and cycling shorts.
- For safety, don't forget a fluorescent vest.
- Warm/fleece clothing for the road in cool weather or for the evening
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of comfortable sneakers for riding
They traveled with us
