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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

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.

road
129 km
564 m
Tough
Route profile

Highlights on the route

Start: Houplin-Ancoisne Village center
Houplin-Ancoisne: Cycling Paradise in Nord-Pas de Calais
Houplin-Ancoisne is a locality located in the Nord-Pas de Calais region of France. From a cyclist's perspective, the locality offers scenic roads and gravel paths that are perfect for road and gravel cycling. The area is relatively flat with some gentle rolling hills, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels. One of the key highlights of the locality is the beautiful countryside scenery, with picturesque fields and charming villages to explore along the way. There are also several well-known cycling routes in the surrounding areas, such as the famous Paris-Roubaix route, which attracts both professional and amateur cyclists. Overall, Houplin-Ancoisne is a great destination for cycling enthusiasts and offers a variety of cycling experiences for all levels of riders.
CarvinTown
Carvin is the starting point for your epic journey, offering a challenging ascent to kickstart your adventure.
HarnesTown
Learn about the region's mining history in Harnes, a town boasting an impressive array of architectural wonders.
Terril 23061 mPeak
Terril 230 stands as a testament to the region's mining heritage, challenging cyclists to conquer its steep slopes for panoramic views.
VimyVillage
Marvel at the historic site of Vimy, marked by its dramatic landscape and remnants of the famous World War I battles.
Mont Saint-Vaast87 mPeak
Discover the hidden gem of Mont Saint-Vaast, where nature's beauty intertwines with the haunting memories of the past.
Lattre-Saint-QuentinVillage
Cycle through the enchanting landscapes of Lattre-Saint-Quentin and appreciate the area's rural splendor.
BéthonsartVillage
Béthonsart invites you to explore its historical buildings and embrace the authentic charm of a traditional French village.
BarlinVillage
Experience the passion for cycling in Barlin, a town surrounded by exceptional cycle routes and picturesque scenery.
T04593 mPeak
Conquer the challenging climb of T045, an ascent that will test your endurance and reward you with unforgettable views.
LorgiesVillage
Discover the allure of Lorgies as you traverse its charming countryside landscapes and welcoming atmosphere.
SantesVillage
Santes awaits with its picture-perfect rural landscapes, providing a serene backdrop for your cycling adventure.
View platformViewpoint
End your journey at the view platform and indulge in the breathtaking panoramic vistas overlooking the stunning countryside.
Finish: Houplin-Ancoisne Village center
Houplin-Ancoisne: Cycling Paradise in Nord-Pas de Calais

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