The best walks and hikes around Bully-Les-Mines
4.5
(1240)
8,814
hikers
442
hikes
Hiking around Bully-Les-Mines offers diverse landscapes shaped by its mining heritage and natural features. The region is characterized by artificial hills known as terrils, which are former slag heaps now rewilded, providing elevated viewpoints. Beyond these unique formations, the area encompasses plains and forests, including the Bois du Mont, offering varied terrain for outdoor activities. Small watercourses like the Surgeon also contribute to the natural appeal of certain routes.
Best hiking trails around Bully-Les-Mines
- The most popular hiking route is…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
4.8
(22)
88
hikers
11.9km
03:14
170m
170m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
21
hikers
14.7km
03:52
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
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5.0
(4)
17
hikers
29.8km
08:03
400m
390m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
21
hikers
10.8km
02:55
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(4)
11
hikers
13.1km
03:38
140m
140m
Hard hike. Good fitness required. Sure-footedness, sturdy shoes and alpine experience required.
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Tips from the Community
This cemetery contains the remains of more than ten thousand soldiers who died during the First World War on the front lines in Artois and French-Belgian Flanders. This location is one of 139 cemeteries and memorials from the First World War on the Western Front that were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2023.
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Eurovelo 5 cycle route which crosses Lens from a former railway line (3200 km cycle route from Italy to the United Kingdom crosses 7 countries including France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland and Italy).
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Very interesting place to learn about the industrial history of the city
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Beautiful panoramic view of Lens and the surrounding area. Be careful when you climb onto the spoil heap during a storm, it's a real hair-raiser!
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Located next to the largest French military cemetery in Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, the Musée Notre-Dame-de-Lorette offers a compelling glimpse into the First World War. This compact museum displays more than 3,000 original objects—from uniforms and weapons to soldiers' personal belongings—that together paint a tangible picture of life at the front. Life-size reconstructions of trenches and underground shelters, enhanced with sound effects, bring the stark reality of war closer. Its location on the former battlefield and its immediate proximity to the necropolis make the museum an intense yet understated place of remembrance, where history and commemoration seamlessly intertwine.
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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 Anneau de la Mémoire is an impressive monument commemorating the 576,606 soldiers of forty different nationalities who died in Nord-Pas-de-Calais during the First World War. The monument was designed by Philippe Prost and was unveiled on 11 November 2014, the 96th anniversary of Armistice Day. It consists of 500 metal panels, each approximately 3 metres high, arranged in an elliptical shape. The names of the soldiers are listed alphabetically, without distinction of rank or nationality.
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A superb monument commemorating the centenary of the Great War. It features nearly 500,000 names engraved in alphabetical order. Without distinction of rank, they come from soldiers of some forty different nationalities, all of whom fell on the front lines of Nord-Pas-de-Calais between 1914 and 1918.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Bully-Les-Mines?
There are over 400 hiking routes around Bully-Les-Mines, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy walks, moderate trails, and more challenging routes, catering to various fitness levels.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Bully-Les-Mines?
Yes, Bully-Les-Mines offers nearly 200 easy hiking trails, perfect for beginners or families looking for a relaxed outing. These routes often traverse plains and wooded sections, providing gentle terrain.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see on hikes in Bully-Les-Mines?
The region's unique landscape is defined by its 'terrils' (slag heaps), which are rewilded artificial hills offering panoramic views. You'll also find open plains, forests like the Bois du Mont, and small watercourses such as the Surgeon, contributing to varied natural scenery. For example, the Loos-en-Gohelle slag heap is a notable natural monument.
Are there any historical landmarks or points of interest along the hiking routes?
Absolutely. Many trails in Bully-Les-Mines lead to significant historical sites, particularly those related to World War I and the region's mining heritage. You can explore areas near the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette National Cemetery, or the symbolic ruined church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many of the hiking trails around Bully-Les-Mines are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Ring of Remembrance – Ring of Remembrance loop from Aix-Noulette, which offers a moderate 10.7 km experience.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Bully-Les-Mines?
The hiking trails in Bully-Les-Mines are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 1000 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance found along the routes.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Bully-Les-Mines?
While specific regulations can vary, generally, dogs are welcome on many of the hiking trails in the Bully-Les-Mines region, especially in open natural areas. It's always advisable to keep them on a leash and ensure you clean up after them.
What are some challenging hikes in the area?
For those seeking a challenge, Bully-Les-Mines offers nearly 40 difficult routes. These often involve more significant elevation changes, particularly when ascending the terrils. A demanding option is the Small natural arch – Ring of Remembrance loop from Aix-Noulette, which spans almost 30 km.
Is there parking available at the trailheads?
Parking is generally available near many of the popular trailheads and points of interest in and around Bully-Les-Mines, especially in areas serving historical sites or larger natural parks. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions.
Can I reach hiking trails using public transport?
While some routes might be accessible via local bus services to nearby towns, direct public transport to every trailhead can be limited. Planning your route in advance and checking local transport schedules is recommended. Many trails are located within a short distance of Bully-Les-Mines and surrounding communities.
What is the best season for hiking in Bully-Les-Mines?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant hiking conditions in Bully-Les-Mines, with mild temperatures and vibrant natural colors. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it's wise to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter hiking is possible, but trails may be muddy or slippery, especially on the terrils.
Are there any trails that explore the region's mining heritage?
Yes, the region's mining past is integral to its landscape. Many trails offer views of the 'bassin minier' and lead through former mining areas, providing insights into this UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape. The Loos-en-Gohelle slag heap – The 11/19 pit loop from Bully - Grenay is one such route that highlights this unique heritage.
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