Attractions and Places To See around Izel-Lès-Équerchin - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Izel-Lès-Équerchin include a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. The area features significant megalithic sites, offering glimpses into ancient history and local legends. Visitors can explore the scenic Scarpe and Sensée valleys, which provide picturesque settings for outdoor activities. Repurposed industrial features, such as slag heaps, also offer unique recreational opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Izel-Lès-Équerchin
- The most popular attractions is The Scarpe by bike…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Les Bonnettes
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Terril de Drocourt
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The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone
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The Scarpe by bike
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Gœulzin Castle.
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During the Great War, this castle was occupied by German troops, pillaged and abandoned. Its ruined state dates from this period.
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Medieval Gœulzin Castle from the 17th century. During the Great War, this castle was occupied by German troops, pillaged and abandoned. Its ruined state dates from this period.
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The Seven Bonnettes are a fascinating megalithic site, surrounded by legends and mysteries. Located in a picturesque valley, this 75 meter high mound is crowned with standing stones forming a crown. According to legend, these stones represent six young girls and a musician, transformed into statues by Heaven for having danced instead of attending vespers.
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They are part of the unknown treasures of Arras and the Pays d'Artois. The various megalithic sites are good for a beautiful walk, among mysteries and legends, history and extraordinary landscapes. Set sail for the Scarpe valley and the Sensée valley, in the wake of the megaliths of the Pays d'Artois.
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Small mythical location. The stone pillars on top have already made many passers-by think. They are part of the unknown treasures of Arras and the Pays d'Artois. The various megalithic sites are good for a beautiful walk, among mysteries and legends, history and extraordinary landscapes. Set sail for the Scarpe valley and the Sensée valley, in the wake of the megaliths of the Pays d'Artois.
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If you are looking for a nice bike ride along the Scarpe, you can go to Lock No. 30 in Athies, a lock that regulates the water level and allows the passage of boats . Lock No. 30 at Athies is part of the Scarpe Supérieure, a canalized section of the river which connects Arras and Douai. It is also a hydrographic area which contributes to the water quality and biodiversity of the region. Lock No. 30 in Athies is a privileged place to appreciate the technical and environmental aspects of the Scarpe.
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The ruins of Goeulzin Castle are what remains of a medieval fortress which was burned down twice in the 16th century and rebuilt by a Count of Bucquoy. The castle, located in the marshy Sensée valley, played a defensive role until the 18th century, when it was abandoned and pillaged. We can still see the remains of its walls, its towers and its main facade with this characteristic plan of stepped gables. You can also admire the neighboring tower which served as an ice house and dovecote in the 18th century.
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The story goes that once the people of the country showed the scratches produced, according to legend, by the claws of the demon when he seized the stone. Streaks do indeed appear on two sides of the menhir… But are they the same as before or do they come from the destruction of the stone in 1918
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Izel-Lès-Équerchin?
The region is rich in ancient history, featuring several fascinating megalithic sites. You can visit Les Bonnettes, known for its local legends, and The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone, which is classified as a historical monument and steeped in tales of the devil's claws.
Are there any ancient legends associated with the attractions in the area?
Yes, several sites are intertwined with local folklore. Les Bonnettes is famous for the legend of a violinist and village girls. Similarly, The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone has stories of the devil's claws and a farmer's pact, making these sites intriguing for those interested in local myths.
What cycling opportunities are there around Izel-Lès-Équerchin?
The area offers diverse cycling experiences. You can explore the scenic Scarpe river via The Scarpe by bike route, which passes Lock No. 30 in Athies. For a more energetic ride or to improve technique, the repurposed slag heap Terril de Drocourt functions as a bike park. Additionally, there are numerous cycling routes available, such as the 'Vauthier Marker No. 39 loop from Drocourt' or the 'Singletrack of the Scarpe – Lock loop from Izel-lès-Équerchin', which you can find in the Cycling around Izel-Lès-Équerchin guide.
Are there any unique natural landscapes to discover?
Beyond the historical sites, the Scarpe and Sensée Valleys offer picturesque natural settings ideal for walks and exploration. You can also experience a unique landscape at Terril de Drocourt, a former slag heap transformed into a recreational area, offering an almost lunar setting.
Where can I find mountain biking trails near Izel-Lès-Équerchin?
Mountain biking enthusiasts can head to Terril de Drocourt, a repurposed slag heap that serves as a bike park, perfect for improving technique. For more extensive rides, explore routes like the 'Les Bonnettes – Biache-Saint-Vaast marshes loop' or 'View from Terril 81 – Murals Under the Bridge loop' in the MTB Trails around Izel-Lès-Équerchin guide.
Are there options for hiking or walking in the area?
Yes, the region provides beautiful settings for walks. The megalithic sites, such as Les Bonnettes and The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone, are excellent starting points for scenic walks amidst history. The Scarpe and Sensée Valleys also offer picturesque natural trails. For specific routes, check out the Hiking around Izel-Lès-Équerchin guide, which includes routes like 'The Sculpture Island loop from Drocourt' and 'Towpath Along the Scarpe – Blue Lake loop'.
What cultural experiences are available in the wider region near Izel-Lès-Équerchin?
While Izel-Lès-Équerchin offers local historical sites, nearby cities provide significant cultural experiences. Arras hosts the Main Square Festival and features the historic Grand Place. Lens is home to the renowned Louvre-Lens Museum and the Stade Bollaert-Delelis. The Canadian National Vimy Memorial is also a notable attraction in the broader area.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do along the Scarpe river?
The Scarpe river is ideal for outdoor activities, particularly cycling. The Scarpe by bike route allows you to explore its scenic banks. You can also observe Lock No. 30 in Athies, which plays a crucial role in regulating water levels and facilitating boat passage, highlighting the river's technical and environmental aspects.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Izel-Lès-Équerchin?
The region offers several spots suitable for families. The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone is categorized as family-friendly, providing an engaging historical site with intriguing legends. Exploring the natural settings of the Scarpe and Sensée Valleys also offers pleasant outdoor experiences for all ages.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Izel-Lès-Équerchin?
Visitors appreciate the blend of history, mystery, and natural beauty. The megalithic sites like Les Bonnettes are considered 'unknown treasures' offering walks among legends. The Terril de Drocourt is loved for its unique bike park experience, allowing riders to improve technique or enjoy an energetic two-hour ride in an almost lunar setting.
Are there any challenging trails for experienced cyclists or mountain bikers?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Terril de Drocourt offers a bike park experience with exhilarating descents and technical sections. Additionally, the Single Evin Malmaison is a hidden single track along the towpath, known for tricky poplar roots and potentially waterlogged holes, making it a more demanding ride.
Can I find easy walking trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are several easy walking options. The megalithic sites provide opportunities for gentle strolls amidst historical landscapes. For specific easy routes, you can consult the Hiking around Izel-Lès-Équerchin guide, which includes trails like 'The Sculpture Island loop from Drocourt' with an easy difficulty grade.
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