The best traffic-free bike rides around Écurie

The no-traffic gravel bike trails around Écurie primarily follow riverbanks and former railway lines, offering generally flat to gently rolling terrain. You'll find routes like the Scarpe riverbanks – The Scarpe by bike loop from Thélus, which features minimal elevation gain, making for a smooth gravel experience.

Yes, Écurie offers several easy no-traffic gravel routes suitable for families. A great option is the Scarpe riverbanks – The Scarpe by bike loop from Anzin-Saint-Aubin, which is rated 'easy' and covers nearly 30 km with very little elevation change, perfect for a relaxed family outing.

Gravel biking in Écurie is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer can be warm but is still suitable, especially for rides along the riverbanks where there might be some shade. Winter rides are possible, but be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially muddy sections, especially after rain.

While many routes are moderate, more experienced riders looking for longer distances can combine routes or tackle the The Scarpe by bike – Canadian Trail loop from Arras. This route extends over 80 km and includes a moderate amount of elevation gain, providing a good challenge while remaining free from heavy traffic.

The Écurie area is rich in history and natural beauty. Along the trails, you can discover significant sites such as the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette National Cemetery. Nature lovers might appreciate the Sainte-Bertille Spring or the Marais de Maroeuil.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most public trails in France, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. It's always a good idea to check specific local regulations or signage along the route, especially in nature reserves or protected areas. The wide, open nature of many riverbank trails makes them suitable for cycling with a leashed dog.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Écurie are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Citadel Paths of Arras – Arras Citadel loop from Arras and the St John the Baptist Church – The Grandes Pairies loop from Arras, offering convenient round trips.

The Écurie area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the routes, the scenic river views, and the historical points of interest along the way. The well-maintained surfaces and varied distances also receive positive feedback.

Many of the routes start from towns like Arras, Thélus, or Anzin-Saint-Aubin, where public parking is generally available. For instance, routes like the Arras Citadel loop begin directly from Arras, which has various parking options. It's advisable to check local parking availability for your chosen starting point.

While the trails themselves are no-traffic, they often pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, bakeries, and restaurants. Routes starting from larger towns like Arras, for example, offer numerous options for refreshments before, during, or after your ride. It's a good idea to plan your stops in advance, especially on longer routes.

There are over 40 no-traffic gravel bike trails available in the Écurie region, catering to various skill levels. This includes 5 easy routes, 23 moderate routes, and 12 more difficult options, ensuring there's a suitable ride for everyone.