The best traffic-free bike rides around Marquay
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(16)
569
riders
18
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Marquay traverse the rolling countryside and river valleys characteristic of France's Dordogne region, specifically the Périgord Noir. The terrain features a mix of plateaus, such as the one Marquay is situated on, and valleys like the Grande Beune, offering varied elevation profiles. Quiet country roads, often shaded by dense oak forests, provide peaceful stretches with minimal vehicle traffic. This landscape offers diverse cycling experiences, from flat sections suitable for leisurely rides to mid-length hills…
Last updated: July 6, 2026
21
riders
65.4km
03:00
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
8
riders
118km
05:03
810m
810m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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5
riders
38.9km
01:45
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
134km
07:25
1,160m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4
riders
27.4km
01:20
180m
180m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
The Riez de Nœux-lès-Auxi nature reserve extends lengthwise at an altitude of 75 meters. It is composed of calcareous meadows on which a rich biodiversity develops, with orchids, mushrooms, and a multitude of insects. Here, you walk alongside it from below, seeing its vegetation grow on its walls.
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This neoclassical-style church was built in place of an older one destroyed during the Spanish invasions of 1636. It stands out for the bulbous dome topped by a spire of its bell tower, its pediment reminiscent of that of Valloires, or its five-bay nave.
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The ruins of the old church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire are an impressive and symbolic remnant of the First World War. This church, built in the 16th century in flamboyant Gothic style by Jacques Le Caron, was heavily damaged during the fighting in 1915. The ruins have been preserved as a monument to commemorate the horrors of war.
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A remarkable story about the ruins concerns the decision not to rebuild the church after the war. Although the church had been classified as a historical monument in 1908, the Commission for Historical Monuments decided that the ruins should remain as a testimony to the German destruction. Ironically, it was the French guns that had destroyed the church, but the ruins became a symbol of the war and the reconstruction.
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Historical interpretation: Ablain-Saint-Nazaire has two churches. In the center of the city, 2,000 people were born in the Nieuwe Kerk, and they were placed at the end of the bid, which was the interwar period. The remaining parts of the outer wall are no longer destroyed. A flamboyant work of art, created by Jacques Le Caron, architect of the famous Belfry of Arras. It was born in the 16th century by Charles de Bourbon-Carency, he was on the board, he was blessed with wild tones in Saint Nazaire who was born with the genesis of his daughter. Ablain is strategically located at the foot of the Notre-Dame-de-Lorette plateau. The Germans were released in October 1914. From France we can see what happened when we visited Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, the same thing happened with Vimy in Arras and in another Lens that dominated the world. The horrors of war and the dangers of reconstruction On May 9, 1915, the French attacked after six days of bombardment. If you don't know what you're doing, don't worry about your success. Now you can see that the 102,000 people who remained at Vimy Ridge are worth it. Carency in Ablain, recaptured at the same time as Lorette, is in ruins, including the Saint-Nazaire church. At the end of the conflict, the Historical Monuments Commission, which classified this church in 1908, decided not to rebuild it: “These moving ruins must be preserved as a witness to German vandalism. » From Ablainois we have some of the English we have had to deal with; they understood that the state did not want to bear the costs of repairing the destroyed church. In 1922, the congregation was new to you as it grew into the stadium. Until its completion in 1932, it was a barracks submitted by the Canadians that served as a temporary prayer room. As for the Old Church, which was in danger of collapsing, the Historical Monuments consolidated its ruins in 1983. They thus continue to bear witness to the horrors of the war and the dangers of reconstruction. Source: https://ablainstnazaire-org.translate.goog/la-vieille-eglise/?_x_tr_sl=fr&_x_tr_tl=nl&_x_tr_hl=nl&_x_tr_pto=sc
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The castle has been preserved in its original plans. It was built in the Middle Ages (13th and 15th centuries). It is an example of a fortified castle from the plains of Northern Europe. A walk along the “Moats” and an interior visit to the chapel, the vaulted cellars and the floors of the keep are recommended. Enjoy a distant past in the present.
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The Château d'Olhain is a castle in the municipality of Fresnicourt-le-Dolmen in the Pas-de-Calais department in the Hauts-de-France region. The castle dates from the 13th and 15th centuries and is one of the best preserved medieval castles in northern France. The castle is surrounded by moats and has a drawbridge and a keep. The castle is open to visitors and offers guided tours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Marquay?
There are over 15 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes around Marquay, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes range from moderate to difficult, ensuring options for different skill levels.
What makes the road cycling routes around Marquay particularly traffic-free?
The Dordogne region, where Marquay is located, is known for its quiet country roads and dedicated greenways (Voies Vertes). These paths are often 100% car-free, winding through lush forests and along rivers, providing a peaceful and safe cycling experience away from major routes.
Are there options for different skill levels on these traffic-free routes?
Yes, the routes cater to various abilities. While most are classified as moderate, there are also options for more challenging rides with significant elevation gains, as well as easier sections perfect for a relaxed pace. For example, the route Doullens Belfry – Lucheux Belfry loop from Saint-Pol-sur-Ternoise offers a more difficult challenge.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic road cycling routes near Marquay?
You can expect a diverse landscape characteristic of the Périgord Noir. Routes often feature rolling countryside, mid-length hills, and sections through dense oak tree forests. The area is set on a plateau bordered by valleys, offering both challenging ascents and scenic descents.
Are there any circular no-traffic road cycling routes available?
Many of the routes around Marquay are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For instance, consider the Roadbike loop from Bajus for a moderate circular ride.
What scenic viewpoints or landmarks can I discover along these quiet cycling routes?
The routes often provide expansive views over the Périgord Noir countryside and the Dordogne Valley. You might pass by historical sites such as the Bours Keep, or natural features like Lac de Beugin and La Comté Waterfall. The region is rich in medieval villages and châteaux.
Are there any historical sites accessible from the no-traffic cycling routes?
Yes, the area is steeped in history. While cycling, you might encounter sights like the fortified church of Saint-Pierre-es-Liens in Marquay itself, or the medieval Bours Keep. The wider region also boasts sites like Château de Commarque and Château de Puymartin, offering glimpses into the past.
What is the best time of year to enjoy traffic-free road cycling in Marquay?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for cycling in Marquay, with milder temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summer can be warm, but many routes are shaded by dense vegetation, providing some relief. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Is parking available for cyclists near the starting points of these routes?
Yes, Marquay and surrounding villages typically offer parking facilities. For specific greenways, designated parking areas are often available at access points. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival for the most convenient spots.
Can I access these routes using public transport?
Public transport options directly to the starting points of all routes might be limited in rural areas like Marquay. However, major towns in the Dordogne Valley often have bus services, and some train stations can be found in the wider region. For detailed information on public transport in the Dordogne Valley, you may find resources on the Visit Dordogne Valley website helpful.
Are there places to eat or stay along or near the no-traffic cycling routes?
Marquay and the charming villages throughout the Périgord Noir offer a variety of cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. You can enjoy local gastronomy, including delicacies like duck confit. Many establishments are accustomed to welcoming cyclists. For more information on local amenities, you can consult the Sarlat Tourisme website.
Are there family-friendly, traffic-free cycling options around Marquay?
Absolutely. The 'Voies Vertes' or Greenway bike paths in the Dordogne Valley are specifically designed to be 100% car-free, making them ideal for families. These routes are safe, scenic, and often skirt rivers or wind through forests, providing an enjoyable adventure for all ages.
Are dogs allowed on the traffic-free cycling routes in the Marquay area?
While many natural areas in France are dog-friendly, specific policies can vary for greenways and protected sites. Generally, well-behaved dogs on a leash are permitted on most public paths. It's always best to check local regulations or signage for specific routes, especially within nature reserves or private estates.
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