![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/belgium/prov-west-vlaanderen/6510741049/terril-230-2.webp)
The Great Mines and Hills Challenge
A road cycling route starting from Houplin-Ancoisne
Conquer challenging climbs and experience the thrill of grueling ascents in the setting of iconic mining sites
![Map miniature of "The Great Mines and Hills Challenge" cycling inspiration in Nord-Pas de Calais, France. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/france/nord-pas-de-calais/houplin-ancoisne/road/27921.webp)
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure through the iconic mining sites of Nord-Pas de Calais with this challenging road cycling route. Spanning over 129 km and featuring an ascent of 564 meters, this route promises incredible landscapes and legendary climbs. Begin in Carvin and tackle the demanding ascent before reaching Harnes, a mining town known for its striking architectural heritage. Experience the incredible Terril 230, an imposing hill with awe-inspiring views marred by its intriguing history. Journey onward to Vimy and witness the remnants of the Great War before discovering Mont Saint-Vaast, a breathtaking site enveloped in natural beauty. Ride through Lattre-Saint-Quentin and Béthonsart, two towns that take pride in their rich history and charming streets. The adventure concludes in Barlin, known for its exceptional cycle routes and welcoming atmosphere.
Highlights on the route
Cycling routes from Houplin-Ancoisne:
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Seclin](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/seclin-4.webp)
![Image of Gondecourt](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/gondecourt-5.webp)
![Image of Emmerin](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/emmerin-4.webp)
![Image of Templemars](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/templemars-5.webp)
![Image of Wattignies](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/wattignies-5.webp)
![Image of Santes](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/santes-5.webp)
![Image of Allennes-les-Marais](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/allennes-les-marais-5.webp)
![Image of Wavrin](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/wavrin-5.webp)
![Image of Faches-Thumesnil](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/france/nord-pas-de-calais/faches-thumesnil-4.webp)