WWI History
Along the Western Front Way, you will encounter a multitude of historic sites, monuments, and museums that tell the stories of World War I and the broader history of the regions.
Some notable checkpoints include;
- Kilometre Zero
Chemin Des Dames
Memorial de la Linge
Butte de Montsec
Verdun
Menin Gate
Raon l'Etape
Vimy Ridge
Maison Blanche German Cemetery
Notre-Dame-de-Lorette
Sir John Monash Centre
Thiepval Memorial
As well as the remains of field hospitals, 
trenches and battlefields along the entire trail, these sites offer a unique opportunity to connect with the whole front and the events that took place during the war.
If you're someone who relishes the opportunity to connect with history, immerse yourself in nature, and witness the locations where incredible historical events unfolded, then the Western Front Way is the perfect cycling trail for you.
Who Inspired the Western Front Way?
The Western Front Way was inspired by A.D. Gillespie, a soldier in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, who wrote a letter in 1915 from the trenches about a desire for a path to be traversed to understand the cost of war. The Western Front Way is a dynamic tribute to those who fought here.
‘When peace comes, our government might combine with the French government, to make one long avenue between the lines from the Vosges to the sea….I would make a fine, broad road in the ‘No-Man’s Land’ between the lines with paths for pilgrims on foot and plant trees for shade and fruit trees, so the soil should not altogether be wasted. The I would like to send every man, woman and child in western Europe on a pilgrimage along that via sacra so they might think and learn what war means from the silent witnesses on either side”
Where do I start?
From the south: access is via Basel Airport and a direct train to Porrentruy (CH) and a convenient 14min regional train to Bonfol.
From the north: The trail begins on the beach front in the coastal town of Nieuwpoort-Bad (BE).
For more detailed travel links, daily distances and bike information click the FULL CYCLING ITINERARY.
Accommodation - Where to stay on the Western Front Way
Accommodation on this trail varies but are mostly good, comfortable hotels, BnB's, Chambres d'Hotes or campsites. All are bookable on the Waytrails app.
Wild camping / bivouac is not prohibited but is tolerated and you must respect certain regulations – Le camping sauvage . Bivouacking is generally understood to mean a one-night stop, in respect to leaving no trace, and is implicitly authorised between the hours of 7 p.m and 9 a.m and is subject rules in coastal areas, listed natural sites and historic monuments. Making an open fire when wild camping in dry/and or wooded areas in France in summer is strictly forbidden. You must seek the owner’s permission if you camp on private land.
Difficulty and terrain
You will enjoy a combination 
of diverse terrain that offers mountain passes in the Vosges and Lorraine, vineyards along the famous Alsace wine route, woodlands, and some of Europe’s most famous waterways. A higher level of fitness is recommended.
The trail sticks to official bike paths or on quiet roads where possible. The trail has been checked and verified by our teams. Waytrails (WFW LTd) is not liable for any local diversions or surface changes due to temporary road or forestry works.
When to visit the Western Front Way
This trail is suitable from beginning of April until mid October to take advantage of the weather and seasonal opening hours. In the summer we recommend advanced booking for hotels and restaurants.
