The best running trails around Mercatel

There are over 400 running routes available around Mercatel, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 8,800 routes in the area.

Yes, Mercatel offers 36 easy running routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. These routes typically feature gentle terrain and shorter distances, making them very accessible.

Jogging around Mercatel offers a blend of peaceful riverbanks, such as those along the Scarpe Canal, and wide-open countryside. You can expect scenic rural landscapes, including fields, small wooded areas, and gently rolling terrain typical of the French countryside. The region is known for its diverse natural landscapes.

While specific 'family-friendly' designations aren't always explicit, many of the easy and moderate routes around Mercatel, especially those with gentle terrain, are suitable for families. The green paths around the Arras Citadel offer a unique and accessible environment for a family jog.

The Hauts-de-France region, including Mercatel, is generally welcoming to outdoor activities. Many rural paths and towpaths are suitable for running with dogs, provided they are kept under control. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in nature reserves or protected areas.

You can encounter several interesting sights. For instance, the route Arras Citadel – Citadel Paths of Arras loop from Beaurains takes you around the historic Arras Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Other nearby attractions include the Marais de Maroeuil and the Scarpe riverbanks.

Many routes around Mercatel start from villages like Beaurains or Boiry-Becquerelle, where public parking is often available. For example, the Running loop from Boiry-Becquerelle would typically have parking options within the village. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for suggested starting points and parking information.

The running routes in Mercatel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 120 reviews. Runners often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful countryside, and the accessibility of the paths for different fitness levels.

Yes, while many routes are moderate, Mercatel and its surroundings offer options for longer distances. For example, the Arras Citadel – Citadel Paths of Arras loop from Beaurains is 10.7 km. The region also features 55 difficult routes for those seeking a greater challenge, often with more varied elevation.

Many of the running routes start or pass through villages like Beaurains or Boiry-Becquerelle, which may have local amenities such as cafes or bakeries. The proximity to Arras also means that routes like the Rietz Park – Arras loop from Beaurains can easily be combined with a visit to establishments in the city center.

The terrain around Mercatel is generally characterized by gently rolling hills and flat sections, typical of the French countryside. You'll find a mix of well-surfaced towpaths along canals, dirt tracks through fields, and some paved sections in and around villages. The 10kms race loop from Beaurains, for instance, offers a dedicated loop through the local area with varied surfaces.

Absolutely. Mercatel's proximity to Arras means you can access the peaceful and leafy greenway along the Scarpe Canal towpath. The River Scarpe itself features well-surfaced towpaths that are ideal for running, offering a tranquil setting. You can learn more about the river at Wikipedia or explore the canals around Douai for similar experiences at Visit Douai.

Yes, many of the running paths around Mercatel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Running loop from Beaurains is a popular circular trail leading through the surrounding countryside.