The best cycling routes around Mons

There are over 200 touring cycling routes available around Mons, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 12 easy routes, 65 moderate routes, and 124 difficult routes for those seeking a challenge.

The Mons region offers diverse terrain. You can enjoy mostly paved surfaces along the Canal du Centre, which is great for relaxed rides. For more rugged experiences, the Havré Woods provide gravel paths, while the Borinage Hills offer varied terrain and elevation gains for more strenuous rides. The extensive Vhello node-point network connects many of these varied landscapes.

Yes, Mons offers several options for easier rides. The routes along the Canal du Centre are generally flat and mostly paved, making them suitable for various fitness levels. The Vhello node-point network also includes many segments designed for relaxed exploration. There are 12 routes specifically rated as easy in the area.

For more challenging rides, consider routes that venture into the Borinage Hills or through the Havré Woods, which feature gravel paths and significant elevation changes. An example of a demanding route is the Gorges de la Siagne – Hauts de callian/montauroux loop from Mons, which covers nearly 30 km with over 700 meters of elevation gain. Overall, there are 124 difficult routes in the region.

The touring cycling routes around Mons are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 240 reviews. Cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from scenic canal paths to challenging hilly sections, and the well-developed cycling infrastructure.

Mons is rich in history. While cycling, you can pass by the iconic Belfry of Mons, a UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views, or the magnificent Collegiate Church of Sainte-Waudru. The city's Grand Place is also a notable historical hub. Some routes may also lead you past the Castellaras Pass, which offers historical significance and scenic views.

Absolutely! The region offers several natural highlights and viewpoints. You might encounter the Ray Waterfall or the unique Tuves Bridge and Cave. For stunning vistas, look for routes that include the Viewpoint over the Siagne valley or the Beautiful road from Mons toward Grasse.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Mons are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Calanques of Anthéor – Le Trayas loop from Fayence is a challenging 100 km circular route. The Vhello node-point network also makes it easy to create your own circular routes by connecting various points.

Yes, Mons is home to the Belfry of Mons, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which can be easily integrated into a cycling tour of the city. Additionally, there's a dedicated UNESCO cycling route that guides cyclists through the cultural and natural treasures of southern Belgium, including sites around Mons.

The best time for touring cycling in Mons is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, with less extreme heat than summer and fewer rainy days than winter, making for ideal cycling conditions.

Yes, the region offers family-friendly options, particularly along the Canal du Centre, which provides flat, mostly paved paths away from heavy traffic. The Vhello node-point network also allows for shorter, customizable routes suitable for all ages and skill levels. For an interactive experience, the Parc d'Aventures Scientifiques (PASS) is a great stop for families.

Mons is well-equipped for cyclists. The region is part of the extensive Vhello node-point network, which boasts 1,200 km of signposted cycling routes across 24 municipalities. You can find more detailed information about cycling in Mons, including maps and practical advice, on the official tourism website: visitmons.be/en/mons-by-bike.