The best cycling routes around Roubaix

There are over 70 touring cycling routes around Roubaix, catering to various skill levels. This includes 33 easy routes, 23 moderate routes, and 17 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.

Roubaix offers a diverse cycling landscape. You'll find mostly flat to gently rolling terrain, especially along the extensive canal networks. However, the region is also famous for its challenging cobbled sectors, known as 'pavé,' which are part of the legendary Paris-Roubaix race.

Yes, many routes are suitable for beginners and families, particularly those along the canal towpaths. These paths are generally flat and offer a tranquil environment. An excellent option is the Canal de Roubaix – La Marque Canal Towpath loop from Mercure, which is 14.8 miles (23.8 km) long and easy.

Absolutely. Roubaix is synonymous with the iconic Paris-Roubaix race. You can tackle challenging cobbled sectors, such as those found on the Les 4 chemins paved sector – Paris-Roubaix Pavé Section loop from Eurotéléport route, which is a difficult 30.6 miles (49.3 km) path. These sections offer a unique and demanding cycling experience.

Along the routes, you can explore various points of interest. The canal networks themselves are a prominent feature, including the Espierres Canal. You might also encounter the Port of Wambrechies or the Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix. For cycling enthusiasts, the historic Roubaix Velodrome is a must-see.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Roubaix are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include Along the canal de Roubaix — loop from Roubaix and Canal de Roubaix – La Marque Canal Towpath loop from Sartel Carihem.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Roubaix, with milder temperatures. However, the canal towpaths are accessible year-round, providing a gentle ride even in cooler weather. Summer can be warm, but the flat terrain along waterways often provides a refreshing breeze.

Roubaix has good public transport links, including metro and tram services, which can get you close to many starting points for routes. For example, the La Maison du Canal – Mauroy Drawbridge loop from Eurotéléport starts near a public transport hub. Parking is generally available in and around the city, especially near major parks like Parc Barbieux or at designated parking areas close to canal access points.

The touring cycling routes in Roubaix are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 150 reviews. Cyclists often praise the peaceful canal towpaths, the unique challenge of the cobbled sectors, and the blend of urban and natural scenery.

Yes, the canal networks are a highlight for touring cyclists in Roubaix. Routes like Along the canal de Roubaix — loop from Roubaix offer flat, accessible paths along waterways such as the Canal de Roubaix, providing a serene cycling experience.

Yes, Roubaix's proximity to Belgium allows for cross-border touring cycling. The broader 'Carré Bleu' circuit, for instance, is a 90 km route along various rivers and canals that connects France and Belgium, offering a unique international cycling adventure.

Roubaix has a vibrant street art scene, and there are dedicated cycling routes designed to help you discover these artworks. These routes transform the urban landscape into an open-air gallery, offering a unique cultural dimension to your touring cycling experience.