Tilloy-lez-Marchiennes: Nature, Trails and History

Tilloy-lez-Marchiennes lies in the heart of the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Nature Park and within a European Natura 2000 site, where distinctive biodiversity is monitored and protected. The town thus combines a strong connection to nature with opportunities for walks and excursions; other themes include farming and the history of the Notre-Dame Chapel. If you are looking for a hotel in Tilloy-lez-Marchiennes, you can plan your stay around these interests: nature and trails, cycling, a visit to a farm, or a focus on cultural heritage.

Natural surroundings and wildlife

The Forêt domaniale de Marchiennes extends across four municipalities, including Tilloy-lez-Marchiennes. Its wetlands are home to the great crested newt, which is protected in France and Europe. The town’s location in the Regional Nature Park and the Natura 2000 site describes its connection to protected areas; the great crested newt is a specific example of the wildlife found in the forest’s wetlands.

Walking and cycling trails

There are various starting points for exploring the forest and wetland landscape. The Forêt domaniale de Marchiennes has 35 kilometres of trails, suitable for hiking and exploring. The Voie verte de la plaine de la Scarpe also runs through the forest and is suitable for walks on foot or by bicycle.

The Circuit du marais des vaches offers a different focus on the landscape. It follows paved roads and wooded paths along the Décours, connecting wet meadows and forest. The route offers a chance to see a wide variety of birds. If you would like to experience different landscapes on a walk, this transition between wet meadows and forest is a defining feature of the route.

Cycling and Paris-Roubaix

Tilloy-lez-Marchiennes is a starting point for numerous excursions on foot, by bicycle or on horseback. The Paris-Roubaix cycling race route also passes through the municipality, using two cobbled sections there. The difference between the two cycling options is clear: Paris-Roubaix is a race route with cobbled sections; the Voie verte runs through the Forêt domaniale de Marchiennes and is suitable for walks on foot and by bicycle.

Visit to Ferme Bauduin

Ferme Bauduin offers visits throughout the year by prior reservation. Options include self-guided visits and guided group visits. You can also meet the animals and learn about livestock farming and crop cultivation. This lets you add a visit to a working farm, with insights into animal husbandry and crop growing, to your stay. Check the dates before you travel and book in advance.

The Notre-Dame Chapel

The Notre-Dame Chapel stands in the town centre. Its predecessor, dating from the 18th century, was destroyed during the German retreat in 1918; the chapel was rebuilt at a different location in 1927. Inside is a white-and-gold altarpiece in the Neoclassical style. For a stay focused on history and architecture, the chapel offers a distinct point of interest alongside nature and farming.

Discover more destinations: Gravelines, Trelon, Halluin, Ferrière-la-Grande, Douai, Téteghem, Eppe-Sauvage, Coudekerque-Branche

For the regional travel overview: Nord.