The best cycling routes around Souchez
4.4
(279)
2,656
riders
293
rides
Touring cycling routes around Souchez offer a diverse landscape in the Pas-de-Calais department of France, characterized by rolling hills and varied terrain. The region features a mix of paved roads and some unpaved sections, providing different challenges for cyclists. Historical sites and natural features, such as the Artois hills and local monuments, are integrated into the cycling experience. This area provides a range of routes suitable for various fitness levels.
Best touring cycling routes around Souchez
- The most popular touring cycling route is Hills of Artois Loop, a 21.2 miles (34.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 22 minutes to complete. This route navigates the gentle slopes of the Artois hills.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Lorette Hill via Ablain – Mont Hernu cycle path loop from Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, a difficult 19.2 miles (30.9 km) path. This route includes significant elevation gain and offers panoramic views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Ruins of Saint-Bertin Abbey loop from Givenchy-en-Gohelle, a 18.4 miles (29.7 km) trail leading through varied landscapes, often completed in about 1 hour 50 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Souchez is defined by rolling Artois hills, historical sites, and a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Souchez are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 250 reviews. More than 2,700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Souchez's varied terrain.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.0
(1)
3
riders
34.1km
02:23
360m
360m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
39
riders
31.0km
02:22
370m
370m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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3.5
(2)
15
riders
30.2km
01:52
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
6
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
11.7km
00:44
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Souchez
Tips from the Community
A remarkable story about the ruins concerns the decision not to rebuild the church after the war. Although the church had been classified as a historical monument in 1908, the Commission for Historical Monuments decided that the ruins should remain as a testimony to the German destruction. Ironically, it was the French guns that had destroyed the church, but the ruins became a symbol of the war and the reconstruction.
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The ruins of the old church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire are an impressive and symbolic remnant of the First World War. Built in the 16th century in flamboyant Gothic style by Jacques Le Caron, this church was badly damaged during the fighting in 1915. The ruins have been preserved as a monument to commemorate the horrors of war.
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The National Necropolis of Notre-Dame-de-Lorette is located on Mont Hernu (173m) and opposite the necropolis, next to the anneau de la Mémoire you have a balcony set up as a lookout point.
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A remarkable story about the ruins concerns the decision not to rebuild the church after the war. Although the church had been classified as a historical monument in 1908, the Commission for Historical Monuments decided that the ruins should remain as a testimony to the German destruction. Ironically, it was the French guns that had destroyed the church, but the ruins became a symbol of the war and the reconstruction.
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The Nécropole nationale de Notre-Dame-de-Lorette is one of the largest and most impressive military cemeteries in France. Situated on a hill in Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, this cemetery contains the graves of more than 42,000 soldiers who died during the First World War. The cemetery was inaugurated in 1925 and includes a basilica, a tower-lantern and a museum.
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The church dedicated to the Mother of God under the title "Notre-Dame de Lorette" rises in brilliant white and is visible from far away. But the brilliant impression is deceptive, at the latest when the visitor to the site realizes that they are in a huge military cemetery. Around 20,000 individual graves and a further 23,000 victims of war and tyranny buried in ossuaries are deeply disturbing.
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You absolutely have to see it. The climb is worth it ;-)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Souchez?
Souchez offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with nearly 300 options available. These routes cater to various skill levels, including around 100 easy, 150 moderate, and over 50 difficult trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Souchez?
The terrain around Souchez is diverse, featuring rolling hills characteristic of the Artois region. Cyclists can expect a mix of paved roads and some unpaved sections, providing varied challenges and scenic landscapes. Routes like the Hills of Artois Loop showcase these gentle slopes.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or families in Souchez?
Yes, Souchez offers numerous easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Around Mont Hernu – Les bois Bauves loop from Souchez is an easy, mostly paved route that is ideal for all skill levels. There are approximately 100 easy routes in the area.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. Experienced cyclists looking for a challenge will find over 50 difficult routes around Souchez. A notable option is the Lorette Hill via Ablain – Mont Hernu cycle path loop from Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, which features significant elevation gain and offers panoramic views, requiring good physical condition.
What historical sites can I visit along the touring cycling routes?
The Souchez area is rich in history, particularly related to World War I. You can cycle past significant sites such as the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette National Cemetery. The Ruins of Saint-Bertin Abbey loop from Givenchy-en-Gohelle also leads through varied landscapes with historical significance.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints on the routes?
Yes, the region boasts several natural attractions and scenic viewpoints. You can discover the captivating Cascade de Souchez, a tranquil waterfall, or explore unique natural monuments like the Vimy Ridge Shell Craters and the Bray Chalk Quarry. The rolling Artois hills themselves provide picturesque views throughout many routes.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Souchez?
Many touring cycling routes in Souchez are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hills of Artois Loop and the View from Terril 81 – Glissoire Park loop from Givenchy-en-Gohelle, making planning convenient.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Souchez?
The touring cycling routes around Souchez are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 250 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse landscapes, the mix of historical sites, and the variety of routes suitable for different abilities.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Souchez?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Souchez, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it may be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but be prepared for colder weather and potentially wet conditions.
Are there cafes or places to eat along the touring cycling routes?
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, the region around Souchez is dotted with charming towns and villages. Larger towns like Arras (12km away) and Lens (6.3km away) offer a wider selection of eateries and cultural attractions, providing good options for breaks or post-ride refreshments.
Is public transport available to reach the touring cycling trailheads?
Souchez is located in a well-connected region of France. While specific public transport links to every trailhead may vary, regional bus services and train connections to nearby cities like Lens and Arras can provide access points. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes and starting points.
Where can I park my car when starting a touring cycling route in Souchez?
Parking is generally available in and around the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many routes. For example, routes starting from Ablain-Saint-Nazaire or Givenchy-en-Gohelle typically have designated parking areas. Always look for public parking facilities or consult local signage.
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