The best traffic-free bike rides around Le Catelet
3.6
(10)
338
riders
37
rides
Road cycling around Le Catelet features a landscape characterized by gentle terrain, canal systems, and verdant areas within the Hauts-de-France region. The area offers numerous no traffic road cycling routes, particularly along canal towpaths, providing flat and scenic options. Cyclists can explore routes that utilize the Saint-Quentin Canal and its associated infrastructure, such as the path above the Riqueval Tunnel. The region's topography includes rolling hills and extensive natural spaces, making it suitable for various road cycling abilities.
Best no…
Last updated: May 6, 2026
2.0
(1)
23
riders
87.3km
03:43
630m
630m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
13
riders
96.8km
04:02
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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11
riders
9.88km
00:28
90m
90m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
19
riders
57.9km
02:26
400m
400m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Joncourt British Cemetery is a serene military cemetery located in Joncourt, France, and contains the graves of British soldiers who died during the First World War. Designed by William Cowlishaw, the cemetery is situated on the road from Joncourt to Levergies, approximately half a mile south of the village centre1. With a rectangular plan and surrounded by a stone wall, the cemetery provides a peaceful place for reflection. The Cross of Sacrifice, a hallmark of British military cemeteries, stands in the western corner1. The graves of 61 soldiers, three of whom are unidentified, belong to the 10th Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders1. The cemetery is lovingly maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, who ensure that the memory of these soldiers is kept alive.
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This Cistercian abbey was founded in 1132 by Bernard of Clairvaux and grew into a large and influential community within a century. Royal armies camped there as in a fortress and Charles V signed peace with Henry II in 1556. In addition to the sick and outcasts, travellers and pilgrims also found shelter in the hospital. The largest abbey church in Europe stood here with an extraordinary length of 135 metres. On feast days, 3000 meals were provided to the needy in the wide area. After the French Revolution, it was declared national property and an inglorious end followed as an open-air quarry. Now, restored parts remain, such as the abbot's palace with the dormitories and monks' halls with the chapter house next to it. The 7-hectare abbey park is being restored to its former glory. Open March to November (Tue-Sat 10am-12pm and 2pm-5.30pm, Sun 3pm-6.30pm, closed Mondays).
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The Romanesque tower, seemingly lost along the road, was once part of a huge fortification wall, 7 kilometres long and 5 to 6 metres high, built between 1204 and 1238 around the area of Vaucelles. In the 15th century, it was provided with 8 towers, but demolished in 1550 for the construction of the fortifications of Cambrai.
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Parts of this gigantic abbey are interesting to visit. The church has disappeared but must have been enormous. Beautiful garden and shop with, among other things, abbey beer.
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If you are on your bike for a long-distance cycling trip, this scene is wonderful.
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Vaucelles Abbey is a former monastery of Cistercian monks. Founded in 1131 by Saint Bernard himself.
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Vue of the canal as you ride over the top.
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Splendid view, maximum astonishment when arriving there! 😍
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no traffic road cycling routes are available around Le Catelet?
There are over 35 dedicated no traffic road cycling routes around Le Catelet, offering a variety of options for different skill levels. You'll find 6 easy routes, 28 moderate routes, and 2 more challenging options.
What kind of terrain can I expect on no traffic road cycling routes in the Le Catelet area?
The region around Le Catelet offers a mix of relatively gentle landscapes. You can expect flat sections, particularly along the scenic canal towpaths like those of the Saint-Quentin Canal, as well as some rolling hills. This variety provides both leisurely rides and more engaging challenges.
Are there any family-friendly no traffic road cycling routes near Le Catelet?
Yes, the area is well-suited for family cycling, especially along the canal systems. These routes are often flat and peaceful, away from vehicle traffic. For an easier option, consider the San-Martin's church loop from Joncourt, which is just under 10 km and rated easy.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling around Le Catelet?
Many routes pass by significant historical and natural sites. You can cycle past the impressive Vaucelles Abbey with its beautiful gardens, or the historic Tour de l'Échauguette. The Pont de Riqueval, part of the canal system, is also a point of interest. For a poignant historical stop, the Joncourt British Cemetery - World War 1 is also nearby.
Are there any circular no traffic road cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the routes are designed as loops. For example, the Tour de l'Échauguette – Vaucelles Abbey loop from Gouy offers a substantial circular ride of over 87 km, combining natural beauty with historical sights.
What is the best time of year for no traffic road cycling in Le Catelet?
The Hauts-de-France region, including Le Catelet, is generally pleasant for cycling from spring through early autumn. These seasons offer milder temperatures and greener landscapes, ideal for enjoying the canal-side paths and countryside roads.
Can I find long-distance no traffic road cycling routes in this area?
Absolutely. The region is known for its extensive cycling infrastructure, including sections of routes like the 'Velo Route de la Somme' and 'La Velo Maritime / Eurovelo 4'. You can find routes such as the Thun-l'Évêque – Vaucelles Abbey loop from Villers-Outréaux, which covers nearly 97 km, offering a great option for longer rides.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Le Catelet?
The komoot community rates the cycling experience around Le Catelet highly, with an average score of 3.85 stars. Cyclists often praise the peaceful canal-side routes, the gentle terrain suitable for road bikes, and the opportunity to discover historical sites like Vaucelles Abbey along the way.
Are there any routes that offer unique cycling experiences, like riding above a tunnel?
Yes, the area offers a unique experience near the Riqueval Tunnel. Cyclists can ride above this engineering marvel on a path known as the 'single du touage', which provides a distinctive and traffic-free cycling adventure.
Are there any moderate difficulty no traffic road cycling routes that explore the Abbey and other points of interest?
Certainly. The Vaucelles Abbey – Cantaing-sur-Escaut Lock loop from Villers-Outréaux is a moderate route of nearly 58 km that takes you past the Abbey and along the canal, offering a blend of history and scenic views. Another option is the Vaucelles Abbey – Tour de l'Echauguette loop from Villers-Outréaux, a 62 km moderate route.
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