SP - 36 - 48 - 49 - 8 - 11 - 9 - 12 - 17 - 45 - 93 - 90 - 91 - 18 - 6 - 13 - 88 - 91 - 94 - 95 - 99 - 34 - 35 - 40 - 41 - 39 - 98 - 84 - 31 - 28 - 27 - 25 - 23 - 22 - 20 - 19 - 18 - 12 - 11 - 10 - 8 - 76 - 6 - 4 - 2 - 1 - 94 - 73 - 55 - 53 - 14 - 13 - 15 - 25 - 73 - 82 - 72 - 75 - 46 - 47

The 84-kilometre cycling route around Tournai is an absolute must for anyone who enjoys a varied blend of heritage, nature and historic charm. With an average difficulty level of 8/10 and 404 metres of elevation gain, the route does require a good level of fitness, but the rewards along the way are plentiful. You can do it all over the course of two to three days.

What makes this trip so special is its combination of cultural highlights and relaxing stretches alongside the water. You start and finish in historic Tournai, home to iconic landmarks such as Belgium’s oldest belfry and the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, with its five distinctive towers. Once you leave the city, the route gives way to peaceful scenery. You follow idyllic waterways such as the Blaton-Ath Canal and the path along the former Pommeroeul-Antoing Canal.

Things to keep in mind along the way:

• Fitness & distance: The 84 km distance requires plenty of stamina. Be sure to bring enough food and water.

• Cross-border route: The route crosses the French border towards Condé-sur-l'Escaut. 

• Varied terrain: In addition to smooth towpaths along the canals, you’ll also cycle through wooded areas and nature reserves such as Chabaud-Latour. Expect varying road surfaces and cobbled sections around village centres.

• Cultural stops: Allow extra time for breaks; the Iguanodon Museum in Bernissart and the TAMAT textile museum in Tournai are well worth stopping for.