Noyelles-sur-Escaut walks

Tour of Cambrai by the rural roads. Leaving the town along the canal towpath, and returning along the banks of the Escaut.

The Estourmel-hier Association offers this tour through fields, tree-lined paths and villages to discover the rich heritage of the commune. Heritage information panels are provided in front of each notable monument to help you learn more about the history of the village.

What's in store: after a short kilometer of uphill northern cobblestones to warm up your calves, you'll plunge into the Thun l'Evèque marshland before following the Escaut and Sensée canals along the towpaths. Along the way, you're sure to come across green collars, moorhens, herons and cormorants, as well as barges and fishermen.

In the heart of the Valenciennes region, a bucolic trail starts in Wasnes-au-Bac and connects the towns of Marquette-en-Ostrevant, Marcq-en-Ostrevent, Féchain, Hem-Lenglet and Paillencourt. The route, lined with hedgerows and rolling meadows, is perfect for strolling between villages with authentic charm and landscapes shaped by local agriculture. Accessible to all and adaptable to your pace, this route can be enjoyed in every season, from the blossoming spring to the soft hues of autumn. A few local snacks and a detailed map are all you need to fully savour this getaway, between contemplative breaks and heritage discoveries.

From Hamel, you can explore the marshes of the region - it's like a little Canada! You'll also discover man-made works such as the Église de l'Écluse, an unusual barge, the Canal du Nord with the Palluel lock and nature trails.

This family trail follows the trails of the Petite Sensée, a small river at the gateway to the Douais urban area, winding through the village of Goeulzin.Easy to navigate, it can be enjoyed all year round, but in wet weather you'll need to wear waterproof footwear.

Starting from Noyelles-sur-Selle, take a rural route where sunken lanes and peaceful riverbanks intertwine. This route takes you to Douchy-lès-Mines, where the vegetated slag heaps are a reminder of the area's mining history, then to the restored canals of Denain before following the Escaut River to Neuville-sur-Escaut. Further on, the medieval ramparts of Bouchain rise up from the meadows, and your arrival in Lieu-Saint-Amand reveals a mosaic of forests and farmland. Bring good walking shoes, a detailed map and a water bottle to make the most of this authentic escape in the Valenciennes area.

In the heart of Vermandois, a path stretches for several kilometres, linking Brancourt-le-Grand to Fresnoy-le-Grand. Between cobbled streets and grassy paths, this long walk invites you to discover the striking contrast between the hustle and bustle of village life and the tranquillity of the surrounding fields. All along the route, the red brick architecture contrasts with the open horizons of meadows and groves. At every turn, let yourself be surprised by an old gate, a blossoming orchard or the discreet song of a stream, for an authentic immersion in the soul of Vermandois.

This walk will take you through the plains and woods of the Arrageois region, which marked the limit of the German advance during the First World War. The marker can be seen on the RD 939. From Monchy, the Germans bombarded Arras, destroying the belfry.

Hiking through the marshes of Biache - Saint-Vaast, Plouvain Roeux and Pelves.

Starting from Monceaux-sur-Écaillon, set off on a rural route that gently climbs through meadows and hedgerows. The first steps lead to Quérénaing, where the charm of red bricks blends with the tranquillity of the allotment gardens. Then, heading towards Maing, the Arenberg Canal and its green banks invite you to stop and contemplate. The final stage towards Thaint reveals bucolic views of the Écaillon valley, between rapeseed fields and secret groves. Bring a water bottle to make the most of this Valenciennes getaway.

In the heart of the Vervinois region, a bucolic trail begins in Vaux-Andigny, inviting you to leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind and immerse yourself in the generous countryside. Under the cover of ancient hedgerows, you walk along meadows bathed in light before reaching Andigny-les-Fermes, where the discreet charm of half-timbered farms reveals a preserved rural heritage. You then reach Mennevret, nestled in a green valley where the murmur of the stream and the ballet of dragonflies set the pace for your walk. Gentle hills appear on the horizon before opening up to the final stage in Régnicourt, a peaceful village with shady lanes. Bring a water bottle and a good pair of shoes: this accessible route is best enjoyed at the pace of the seasons, stopping to contemplate the scenery.

Starting from Saint-Martin-Rivière, this route takes you into the heart of the rolling countryside of northern Aisne, between peaceful bocage and charming villages. Following small roads and hedged paths, you pass through Ribeauville, then Wassigny, an ancient fortified town where history is evident in every stone. The walk continues towards La Vallée-Mulâtre, nestled in lush greenery, before reaching Molain, where open meadows and farm tracks offer a breath of fresh air. This accessible and rejuvenating circuit combines rural heritage and gentle landscapes for an authentic immersion in the heart of the Thiérache region.

Easy walk from Bellaing to the slag heap, the mining cottages and the Haveluy pit.Return through the countryside with a view of the Arenberg slagheap and the Saint-Amand forest.Enjoy the walk.

This route takes you through the mythical 'Trouée d'Arenberg' (Arenberg gap), the venue for the Paris-Roubaix race, and then on to the Mare à Goriaux bird sanctuary.