Matringhem: Hiking, Cycling and Local History

Matringhem can be explored through several specific travel interests: hiking the Les Monts trail, cycling the L’Aa route, fishing at the Étangs Martin Pêcheur and learning about local architectural history. If you’re looking for a hotel in Matringhem, these themes can help shape your stay. The two routes differ in mode of travel, duration and difficulty; ponds, architecture and the village itself offer further ways to discover the area.

Hiking on Les Monts

Les Monts is a moderately difficult, 12.3-kilometre hiking trail starting in Matringhem. The estimated duration is three hours. The trail leads to the highest points of the first ridge of the Artois Hills. From the high plateaus, it offers sweeping views across the landscape and impressive panoramas. The hike therefore combines a specific time commitment with a strong focus on scenery. A GPX download is available for Les Monts. Check the latest route information before setting out, as route specifications may change.

Cycling on L’Aa

L’Aa is a 41-kilometre cycle-tourism route starting at La Place in Matringhem. The route is listed as taking four hours and having a high difficulty level; the stated elevation difference ranges from 50 to 190. In a direct numerical comparison, L’Aa is longer than Les Monts: the cycling route is 41 kilometres long, while the hiking trail is 12.3 kilometres long. The stated durations also differ: four hours compared with an average of three hours. When choosing, you can therefore take into account the mode of travel, duration and difficulty. Check the route information before your trip, as route details may change.

Village and architectural history

Matringhem is considered a small village on a plateau. Traditional local architecture includes timber-framed and earth-built structures. From the late 19th century onward, several brick buildings were also constructed. This timeline distinguishes the traditionally influenced building styles from the later period of brick construction. Hedges and small copses line the main street, adding a natural element to the village landscape. The Moulin Mentel is also connected with the river landscape: it lies on the Lys downstream from Matringhem. For a culturally focused trip, both the village’s architectural styles and the mill’s location offer different points of interest.

Fishing ponds and planning your time

The Étangs Martin Pêcheur cover nine hectares in Matringhem and include twelve ponds fed by natural springs. Fishing for trout, coarse fish and carp is offered there. Fishing trips are planned as either a half-day or a full day. This offers a different way to enjoy nature alongside the routes: at the ponds, the waters and the named fish species are central, while the routes focus on distance and landscape. Before you arrive, check current availability and the terms for access and booking.

Discover more destinations: Fiefs, Ficheux, Wamin, Blendecques, Lorgies, Cucq, Autingues, Rodelinghem.

For the broader travel overview: Pas-De-Calais.