The best walks and hikes around Benay
4.5
(203)
976
hikers
83
hikes
Hiking around Benay reveals a landscape characterized by its waterways, including the Canal de Saint-Quentin, and gentle, rolling terrain. The region features numerous paths that follow rivers and canals, offering mostly flat or low-gradient routes. These hiking trails around Benay provide access to the local countryside, often passing through agricultural areas and small villages. The terrain is generally accessible, making it suitable for a range of hiking abilities.
Best hiking trails around Benay
- The most popular hiking route is Canal…
Last updated: June 24, 2026
4.6
(23)
48
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
19
hikers
11.7km
03:02
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(6)
16
hikers
10.2km
02:36
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
hikers
5.10km
01:19
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
"God loves every soul with an undying love. He approaches each one with repeated, unspeakably patient offers of redemption. Even a small sign of love is enough for him to forgive and redeem. Our dear departed ones lacked a life preserver for the body; but the spiritual life preserver was not lacking, the breath of God in which the soul can clothe itself in a tiny moment, much more quickly than the body could." (Text by Albino Luciani / Pope John Paul I)
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The British cemetery of Seraucourt was created from 1920 to 1926, where the remains of soldiers buried in graves located on the nearby battlefield were grouped together, most of them killed in 1918. The cemetery contains 1,378 bodies including: 1 371 British, 5 Canadians and 2 Australians. Among them are around twenty airmen shot down in 1944. Only 496 bodies have been identified.
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The Grand-Seraucourt British Cemetery is a historic site dating from the First World War, where nearly 2,000 British soldiers and airmen are buried. The cemetery covers an area of 4,732 m² and is surrounded by a stone wall. You can run along the paths that connect the different sections of the cemetery and admire the memorial stones and flowers that adorn them. You can also learn more about the history of the cemetery and the people buried there by reading the information panels or scanning the QR codes with your smartphone. The cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entry is free. Running in the Grand-Seraucourt British Cemetery is a way to honor the memory of those who fought for freedom, and to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this place.
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If you're looking for a scenic and historic route, you can try the Saint-Quentin Canal in northern France. This canal connects the Escaut, the Oise and the Somme, and crosses the watershed at a summit level 20.4 km long with two tunnels. You can run along the towpath, admire the views of the countryside and the waterway, and discover the towns and villages along the route. The canal was built in the 18th century and was an important link for trade and transport. You can learn more about its history and engineering at the Musée du Touage in Riqueval, where you can also see the electric tugboats that pull the boats through the long tunnel. The Saint-Quentin canal is an ideal destination for runners who love culture and adventure.
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If you are interested in the history of the First and Second World Wars, you can visit the Grand-Seraucourt British Cemetery, a British military cemetery located in the commune of Seraucourt-le-Grand, in the department of Aisne. The cemetery contains 1,378 graves of soldiers who died mostly in 1918, as well as a few airmen shot down in 1944. The information panels and memorial stones will allow you to learn more about the battles that took place in this region and on the history of fallen soldiers. The cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and entry is free. The cemetery is surrounded by a stone wall and has a staircase and a building at the entrance. There you can take a peaceful and respectful walk among the rows of white tombstones and admire the flowers and trees that adorn the site.
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The path that follows the Saint-Quentin Canal from Saint-Quentin to Fontaine-lès-Clercs is approximately 13 kilometers long and will allow you to enjoy views of the water, bridges, locks and the surrounding countryside. The trail is largely flat and easy, with some gentle inclines.
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Most of the soldiers who died senselessly in the First World War only lived to be 22 years old.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Benay?
There are over 90 hiking routes around Benay. The network includes 40 easy trails, 53 moderate trails, and 3 more challenging options, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy hiking routes suitable for beginners in Benay?
Yes, Benay offers a good selection of easy trails, with approximately 40 routes rated as easy. These often follow the gentle canal paths and river routes, making them ideal for beginners or those looking for a relaxed stroll. An example is the Canal de Saint-Quentin Path – Fontaine les clercs lock loop from Seraucourt-le-Grand, which is 4.7 miles (7.6 km) long.
Are the hiking trails around Benay suitable for families with children?
Many of Benay's trails, particularly the easy and moderate ones along the canals and rivers, are well-suited for families. Their low-gradient terrain and scenic waterways provide a pleasant environment for children. The Footbridge Over the River loop from Vendeuil, at 3.6 miles (5.8 km), is a good option for a family outing.
Are there any circular walking routes in Benay?
Yes, many of the trails in Benay are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Canal de St Quentin et cimetière britannique de Grand-Seraucourt — boucle depuis Seraucourt-le-Grand is a popular 6.0-mile (9.7 km) circular trail.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Benay?
Hiking in Benay primarily features landscapes shaped by its waterways, including the Canal de Saint-Quentin and various rivers. You'll find mostly flat or low-gradient terrain, passing through agricultural areas and small villages. The routes often follow canal paths and riverbanks, offering tranquil views of the local countryside.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Benay?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 170 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal paths, the gentle terrain suitable for all abilities, and the opportunity to explore the local countryside and charming villages.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the hiking trails in Benay?
Yes, you can discover several points of interest. For example, the Canal de St Quentin et cimetière britannique de Grand-Seraucourt — boucle depuis Seraucourt-le-Grand passes by a British cemetery. Other nearby attractions include the Bike path along the Oise, the impressive Basilique Saint-Quentin, and the Saint-Quentin war memorial.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Benay?
While specific regulations can vary, many of the public paths and canal routes in Benay are generally dog-friendly, especially if kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to check local signage or specific route descriptions for any restrictions, particularly in nature reserves or agricultural areas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Benay?
The gentle terrain and canal-side paths of Benay make it suitable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and scenic views, while summer is great for longer days. Even in winter, many routes remain accessible, though conditions can be damp.
Are there any trails that feature waterfalls in Benay?
While the region is characterized by canals and rivers, the Footbridge Over the River – Waterfall Vendeuil loop from Vendeuil is a 6.0-mile (9.7 km) trail that leads through riverside landscapes and is noted for a waterfall, offering a unique feature in the area's generally flat terrain.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trailheads in Benay?
Information on specific public transport links to trailheads can vary. It's recommended to check local bus or train schedules for services connecting to towns like Seraucourt-le-Grand, Gauchy, or Vendeuil, from where many of the popular routes begin. Many trails are accessible from village centers.
Where can I find parking for hiking trails in Benay?
Parking is generally available in or near the villages and towns that serve as starting points for the trails, such as Seraucourt-le-Grand, Gauchy, and Vendeuil. Look for designated public parking areas or street parking where permitted. Always be mindful of local regulations.
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