Lille's marshlands by bicycle
  • 20230721-081819-866386
  • 20230615-171619-0-866387
20230721-081819-86638620230615-171619-0-866387

Lille's marshlands by bicycle

  • French
    French
  • English
    English
  • From
    30€From
  • Meeting point
    Devant la gare de FretinMeeting point

Presentation

Set off on a day's cycling in the heart of nature and culture.

You start your day's cycling from Fretin station and set off on a 46 km ride.
First, you cross the Fretin marshes, a peaceful natural area, before following the Marque river and enjoying its green paths. The route then joins a section of the Paris-Roubaix cycle route, which takes in the legendary terrain of the famous cycle race. Heading north, you arrive at Villeneuve d'Ascq. You pass the Open Air Museum and then reach Lac du Héron, a popular refuge for many species of birds. The route continues near the LAM, a museum of modern and contemporary art, recognisable by its original architecture. Further on is the Villa Cavrois, a modernist masterpiece by Mallet-Stevens. It is open to visitors and offers an insight into the avant-garde architecture of the 1930s. You then descend towards the Hem Leisure Centre, then the 6 Bonniers Leisure Centre, perfect places for a break by the water. The return journey takes you through Gruson and then the church of Bouvines, famous for its stained-glass windows depicting the battle of 1214. The loop ends at Fretin station, after a wonderful day exploring the area by bike.
  

To know

Good to know
  • This cycling day in English or French is available from 1 April to 30 October 2026.
  • Departure is scheduled for 10 a.m. in front of Fretin station, with an estimated return time of around 5 p.m.
  • Fretin station is 11 minutes by TER train from Lille Flandres.
  • The route is provided in a guidance app, with points of interest along the way.
  • You can do this day trip with your own bicycle.
  • There are various options available to enhance your day:
    • Option with local picnic, at an additional cost of €20: the basket includes a sandwich, a drink, a packet of local crisps and a dessert.
    • Option with muscle-powered bike and local picnic, at an additional cost of €30.
    • Option with electric bike and local picnic, with a supplement of €40.
  • If you hire bikes, they will be delivered to the starting point at Fretin station. The bikes are equipped with two 20-litre rear panniers, a handlebar bag, a water bottle, a repair kit, a lock and helmets.
  • Please specify if you wish to take out breakage and theft insurance; the price varies depending on the type of bike chosen.
  • Service +: bookings less than 5 days in advance by contacting our advisers by telephone on +33 (0)359 579 400.

Availability