The best traffic-free bike rides around Forest-En-Cambrésis

There are 4 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails detailed in this guide, offering a range of distances and difficulties for exploring the serene landscapes around Forest-En-Cambrésis.

The trails primarily traverse the diverse landscapes of the Avesnois and Cambrésis regions. You'll encounter a mix of open plateaus, bocage meadows, and dense deciduous forests, particularly within the Avesnois Regional Natural Park and Mormal Forest. Expect varied surfaces, from quiet country roads and agricultural paths to forest trails, providing a true gravel biking experience. The region's historical routes, like ancient Roman roads, also offer unique riding surfaces.

For a more challenging ride, consider the Path Along the Oise River – Along the EuroVelo3 loop from Bertry. This route spans over 77 km and features significant elevation gain, making it the most demanding option in this guide.

While all routes in this guide are rated moderate to difficult, the region generally offers many quiet paths suitable for families. For a slightly less intense, yet still engaging, experience, the Green Path – Chemin d'Haspres loop from Solesmes is a moderate option that allows you to enjoy the peaceful countryside away from traffic.

The routes often pass by charming local landmarks and natural features. For instance, the Moulin du Tordoir – Belle Vue British Cemetery loop from Bertry includes the historic Moulin du Tordoir. You might also encounter the Weir at L'Auberge du Puits des Prés or the Drawbridge of the Sambre Canal at Landrecies on other nearby routes, offering glimpses into the region's heritage and waterways.

Yes, all the no-traffic gravel bike trails featured in this guide are designed as loops. This means you'll start and finish at the same point, making logistics like parking much simpler. Examples include the Le Tronquoy – Tronquoy cobbled sector loop from Bertry and the Green Path – Chemin d'Haspres loop from Solesmes.

You'll be immersed in the natural beauty of the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, known for its rolling green hills, extensive bocage landscapes, and dense deciduous forests like the Mormal Forest. The region is also characterized by open plateaus and rural plains, with routes often following tranquil waterways such as the Richemont stream and the Cambrésis stream, or canals that connect villages.

Given the rural nature of the area and the loop design of the routes, you can typically find parking in the starting villages mentioned for each tour, such as Solesmes or Bertry. Look for public parking areas within these communes, often near town centers or local amenities.

While direct public transport links to every trailhead might be limited, the region is part of a broader cycling network. You may find regional bus services or train stations in larger towns nearby that could get you closer to the starting points. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for the Nord department when planning your trip.

Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking in Forest-En-Cambrésis, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn showcases vibrant foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's wise to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday heat. Winters can be cold and potentially wet, making some unpaved sections muddy.

The routes often pass through or near small villages where you might find local cafes, bakeries, or small shops. It's a good idea to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially on longer sections, but planning your stops in villages like Solesmes or Bertry can offer opportunities for a break and refreshment.