The best gravel rides around La Capelle

There are several gravel bike trails around La Capelle, with 5 routes currently listed on komoot. These routes primarily utilize former railway lines and greenways, offering a mix of moderate and difficult options.

The terrain is characterized by rolling countryside, often passing through agricultural lands and alongside small rivers. You'll primarily ride on former railway lines and greenways like the Axe Vert de la Thiérache and the Avesnois Greenway, offering a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel bikes.

The routes around La Capelle are generally classified as moderate to difficult, with no easy trails currently listed. However, the greenways and former railway lines offer relatively consistent surfaces, which can be manageable for those with some gravel biking experience.

While no routes are specifically marked as "easy" for beginners or young children, the greenways and former railway lines, such as sections of the Ohis Railway Viaduct – Locomobile Salmson No. 3003 loop from Étréaupont, offer flatter, more consistent surfaces that might be suitable for families with older, experienced children.

For a challenging ride, consider the Avesnois Greenway – Château de Trélon loop from Fourmies, which is 46.7 miles (75.2 km) long and explores the varied terrain of the Avesnois region. Another difficult option is the 75.2 miles (121.0 km) Axe Vert de la Thiérache – Liessies Picnic Area loop from Rond-Point de Guise, offering extensive views.

Many routes follow former railway lines, offering glimpses of historical infrastructure like the Ohis Railway Viaduct. You might also encounter the Fortified Church of Saint-Martin of Wimy or enjoy a break at the Oise Riverside Picnic and Swimming Spot near Autreppes.

Yes, many of the gravel routes around La Capelle are designed as loops. Examples include the Ohis Railway Viaduct – Locomobile Salmson No. 3003 loop from Étréaupont and the Locomobile Salmson No. 3003 – Ohis Railway Viaduct loop from Clairfontaine, both offering convenient circular journeys.

The region's rolling countryside and greenways are generally enjoyable from spring through autumn. While winter conditions can vary, the relatively consistent surfaces of the former railway lines might still be rideable, though checking local weather and trail conditions is always recommended.

The routes often connect rural communities, which may offer opportunities for cafe stops or small shops. Planning your route in advance and checking for services in villages along your chosen path is advisable, especially for longer rides.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the unique experience of riding along former railway lines and greenways, appreciating the blend of natural scenery and historical points of interest.

Many routes start from towns or villages, where public parking is typically available. For example, routes like the Ohis Railway Viaduct – Former Wimy-Ohis station loop from Clairfontaine often begin from accessible points in communities like Clairfontaine or Étréaupont.