Riding from London to Paris is a rite of passage for many cyclists. Most take the smooth and efficient road routes, but the real magic lies beyond the tarmac on gravel paths, woodland trails, and ancient bridleways that reveal a hidden world between two great cities. Here, the journey is as much the reward as the destination. Mud-splattered legs, dust-covered bikes, and the satisfaction of knowing you've taken the scenic, challenging, and infinitely more interesting route this is the off-road adventure.
Two standout events celebrate this untamed way of travelling between London and Paris: Hidden Tracks Cycling’s Trails of Two Cities and the Landrace London to Paris ride. Both embrace off-road magic, but each offers a unique flavour. One is a curated, sociable adventure steeped in camaraderie, while the other is a test of endurance and self-sufficiency. But they share the same spirit: a love for the untamed route, the thrill of the unknown, and the sheer joy of riding beyond the confines of tarmac.
Trails of Two Cities – The Social Adventure
Hidden Tracks Cycling’s Trails of Two Cities is a multi-day gravel journey from London to Paris, designed for those who want adventure with a side of comfort. It’s fully supported, with expert route planning, baggage transfers, and well-chosen overnight stops. This means you get to focus on the ride itself without worrying about logistics.
The route is a dream for off-road enthusiasts. It begins with the chalky bridleways of the North Downs, then meanders through ancient forests, canal towpaths, and forgotten country lanes. Across the Channel, riders follow the Côte d'Opale and Boulogne’s quiet trails before crossing the historic battlefield of Crécy. From there, the route threads through the marshes of the Somme Valley, past the medieval gothic splendours of Abbeville and Amiens, before rolling through the picturesque Picardy countryside towards Paris.
With well-timed café stops and occasional educational detours, Trails of Two Cities is as much about soaking in the landscape and history as it is about pedaling towards the Eiffel Tower. It strikes the perfect balance challenging yet achievable, remote yet social. Riders share the experience, support each other through tricky sections, and celebrate the day’s progress over well-earned meals. It’s the ultimate way to turn an ambitious ride into an unforgettable journey.
A Trail of Two Cities tours runs from 7th to 14th May
Landrace to Paris – The Challenge
For those who prefer their rides with an extra dose of grit and self-reliance, the Landrace London to Paris offers a different kind of adventure. While supported, it is aimed at stronger riders seeking a tougher, more endurance-focused challenge.
Participants must navigate off-road routes, tackling rugged terrain and long days in the saddle. Unlike the structured Trails of Two Cities, this ride demands self-sufficiency in pacing, effort, and problem-solving. Support is available, but minimal to ensure the challenge remains raw and exhilarating.
The route shares some DNA with its guided counterpart, particularly in its use of gravel tracks and forest trails, but with a heavier emphasis on riding intensity. The North Downs provide a brutal early test, their climbs steeper and rougher than anticipated. Once across the Channel, long stretches of remote countryside require careful decision-making on rest, refuelling, and repairs. Reaching Paris feels like a personal victory a testament to endurance, planning, and resilience.
The Landrace to Paris tour runs 12th to 15th June
Which Ride is for You?
Both rides embody the essence of off-road adventure, but the right choice depends on what you seek:
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If you want to immerse yourself in gravel riding while enjoying a well-planned, sociable journey, Trails of Two Cities is a dream.
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If you’re a stronger rider looking for a challenge with a degree of support, the Landrace London to Paris offers a more demanding yet structured experience.
Either way, the rewards are the same stunning landscapes, the thrill of gravel under your tyres, and the unparalleled joy of rolling into Paris knowing you took the harder, more beautiful way.
Gravel riding from London to Paris isn’t just about getting from A to B it’s about adventure, resilience, and the stories you gather along the way. The tarmac is for those in a hurry. The trails? They’re for those who seek discovery, challenge, and a journey worth remembering.