Bassin Minier Cycle Route (France)

Ride across northern France’s historic mining basin, linking old pitheads, terrils (slag heaps), canals, and parkland. This collection strings together greenways, quiet streets, and towpaths with some short stretches on busier roads to connect the dots.

Expect mostly smooth tarmac with bits of gravel and hard-packed track—perfect for a hybrid or gravel bike. It’s largely flat but with a few punchy climbs around the terrils and open sections where wind can kick in. You can hop on and off around towns like Lens, Liévin, Béthune, or Douai, and there’s plenty of rail access in the area.

Highlights include views from the terrils, UNESCO-listed mining landscapes, and canal-side cruising. Family-friendly sections exist on the greenways, but be mindful of traffic where the route links through towns. Bring wider tires if you want comfort on the unpaved bits, lights for urban sections, and a lock for café stops. If you’ve got time, the Louvre-Lens is nearby and worth the detour. Enjoy the mix of heritage, nature, and easy rolling.