4.4
(46)
197
hikers
23
hikes
Hiking around Gonnelieu offers an experience of the Picardy plains, characterized by open landscapes, hedgerows, and woodlands. The terrain includes earth, grass, stones, and tarmac, with modest elevation changes. The area features green valleys and the tranquil Escaut river, providing a blend of natural beauty and rural charm. Reminders of past battles subtly shape the land, adding a historical dimension to the tranquil surroundings.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.4
(5)
34
hikers
12.7km
03:20
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
9.97km
02:35
60m
60m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4
hikers
2.11km
00:34
20m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
11.5km
03:01
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
hikers
8.73km
02:15
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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This Cistercian abbey was founded in 1132 by Bernard of Clairvaux and grew into a large and influential community within a century. Royal armies camped there as in a fortress and Charles V signed peace with Henry II in 1556. In addition to the sick and outcasts, travellers and pilgrims also found shelter in the hospital. The largest abbey church in Europe stood here with an extraordinary length of 135 metres. On feast days, 3000 meals were provided to the needy in the wide area. After the French Revolution, it was declared national property and an inglorious end followed as an open-air quarry. Now, restored parts remain, such as the abbot's palace with the dormitories and monks' halls with the chapter house next to it. The 7-hectare abbey park is being restored to its former glory. Open March to November (Tue-Sat 10am-12pm and 2pm-5.30pm, Sun 3pm-6.30pm, closed Mondays).
1
0
Parts of this gigantic abbey are interesting to visit. The church has disappeared but must have been enormous. Beautiful garden and shop with, among other things, abbey beer.
1
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Vaucelles Abbey is a former monastery of Cistercian monks. Founded in 1131 by Saint Bernard himself.
0
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Vue of the canal as you ride over the top.
0
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Magnificent paved area in superb condition. It is uphill coming from Lesdain and is about 1000m long.
0
0
Always pleasant passage in all seasons
1
0
Former abbey classified as a historical monument
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0
There are over 25 hiking routes around Gonnelieu, offering a variety of experiences across the Picardy plains. These include options for easy, moderate, and difficult trails.
The trails around Gonnelieu feature diverse terrain, including earth, grass, stones, and tarmac. You'll encounter the gentle vastness of the Picardy plains, often bordered by hedgerows and woodlands, with modest elevation changes. Some routes also reveal green valleys and the tranquil Escaut river.
Yes, Gonnelieu offers several easy hiking options. There are 9 routes specifically graded as easy, perfect for beginners or those seeking a leisurely stroll through the rural landscapes.
Many of the hiking trails around Gonnelieu are circular routes, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Vaucelles Abbey – Abbaye de Vaucelles loop from Bantouzelle is a popular moderate circular trail.
While hiking around Gonnelieu, you can experience the expansive Picardy plains, ancient hedgerows, and peaceful woodlands. Routes near Banteux feature sunken paths leading to meadows dotted with apple trees and the tranquil Escaut river. You might also encounter historical reminders of past battles subtly shaping the land. For specific points of interest, consider visiting Vaucelles Abbey or the Masnières Newfoundland Memorial.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, the blend of natural beauty with rural charm, and the peaceful atmosphere of the Picardy plains.
Yes, for experienced hikers seeking a greater challenge, there is at least one difficult route available. The Vaucelles Abbey loop from Bantouzelle is a 22.5 km trail that typically takes nearly 6 hours to complete, leading through varied terrain.
With 9 easy routes and modest elevation changes across many trails, Gonnelieu offers suitable options for families. The serene rural landscapes and diverse terrain provide an engaging environment for all ages.
The Picardy plains offer pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming flora or changing leaves. Summer is also suitable, with woodlands offering shaded pathways.
Gonnelieu is a commune with rural charm, and while specific cafes, pubs, or accommodations directly on the trails are not detailed, the village itself serves as an excellent starting point. Amenities can typically be found within Gonnelieu or nearby larger towns in the region.
While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, the 'Around Gonnelieu' walk, for instance, begins conveniently opposite the Gonnelieu Town Hall, suggesting parking options are available within the village for accessing trails.
Information on direct public transport links to specific trailheads is limited. However, Gonnelieu is a commune in northern France, and local bus services or regional trains to nearby towns might provide access, though planning ahead is recommended.


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