A nature escape cycling between Avesnois and Thiérache
Explore Northern France by bike and cycle across the Avesnois Regional Park and the Thiérache hedged farmland. A perfect blend of nature holidays and gastronomic wonders!
- Avesnois
- 5 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 45 km/day
- Loop
Explore France's Northern landscapes along greenways and canals
From the hedged farmland of the Thiérache to the foothills of the Ardennes Massif and the Sambre Canal, this 5-day cycle tour, part of which follows the Scandibérique (EV3), will allow you to explore the varied landscapes of the Nord and Aisne regions. Cycle in complete safety on a mix of greenways, towpaths and small country roads.
En route, discover the region's rich industrial history and take time to stop off at the textile and social life museum in Fourmies, the glass museum in Sars-Poterie and, of course, the fascinating Familistère de Guise. You won't be outdone when it comes to gastronomy either: between the many artisanal basseries and cheese farms, you'll have plenty of opportunities to sample the local craft beers and the famous Maroilles cheese!
Program
Located on the Scandiberique cycling greenway, the village of Neuve-Maison plunges you into the heart of the Thiérache countryside. Make yourself comfortable in your accommodation and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature!
- 43 km
- + 296 m
Start your trip by following a bike trail crossing the Thiérache area. A steep but short climb above the town of Hirson will lead you to the forest’s shaded paths. Take a break at the domaine de Blangy where you can admire the river Oise and Blangy’s waterfall.
Follow the path up to Fourmis and take the time to visit the fascinating museum of textile and social life, housed in the town’s former spinning mill. A few kilometers further, the glass museum will deepen your knowledge about the region industrial history. Liessies is only a few pedal strokes away, cycling on an easy and quiet former railway track.
- 20 km
- 25 km
End up today’s stage by a return trip to the Val-Joly Lake. Cycling along the banks, you will have access to a large choice of activities across this 580-hectare nature reserve: swimming pool, canoë, stand-up paddle, spa, sauna, etc.
The bravest ones will complete the entire lake’s tour, going through the forest and Eppe-Sauvage’s village, close to the belgian border.
- 42 km
- + 263 m
- 40 km
- + 191 m
- 37 km
- + 212 m
This stage following exclusively the Thiérache region’s greenway will give you plenty of time to visit Guise’s "familistère" before starting cycling. Save around 3 hours to make the most of the "social palace" and its adjacent buildings (including a swimming pool !).
You can then jump back on your bike and follow the Scandibérique route until the end of your stage. Don’t hesitate to get off the greenway to visit the beautiful fortified churches located along the way.
Once in Neuve-Maison, you may chose to head back home or extend your stay and enjoy the beauty of the peaceful Thiérache region one more night.
Accommodation
Information
Beginning of the trip
As the first day is a non-biking day, you’ll arrive at your leisure, depending on your route. Please note that rooms are usually available by mid-afternoon, depending on your accommodation. Please let your hosts know if you are arriving late.
To get to the departure point
By plane: flight to Paris, Lille or Charleroi (Belgique), then train to Hirson.
By train: the closest train station is Hirson (5 km). The easiest way to reach your accommodation in Neuve-Maison from the station is to book a taxi. You will find taxi companies’ contact details in your travel documents. From Paris station (Gare du Nord), take a TGV train to Lille then a direct TER train to Hirson. To plan your trip : https://www.thetrainline.com
Car park
If you choose to drive, you can park your car for free for the duration of your stay at your accommodation in Neuve-Maison. A car park is also available at Hirson train station.
To get back to the starting point
You will start and end your trip in Neuve-Maison.
- Avesnois
- 5 day(s)
- Easy
- ~ 45 km/day
- Loop
Tried and tested stays!
- Experience15 years' experience in cycling to advise and satisfy you
- Tested & ApprovedThe whole team goes out into the field to design the itineraries and select the best partners (accommodation, bikes, etc.).
- Quality of serviceA dedicated customer service team available and ready to listen, from the moment you book until you return from your holiday.
- Secure paymentIndividual or fractional payment by secure means via our website
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- Avesnois
- Easy
- ~ 45 km/day
- Loop