Namur is a city that lends itself fairly well to cycling, despite a few black spots (mainly bridges and major roads). Public facilities are located in flat areas, as is the entire university campus. The city center, whether pedestrianized or not, is easy to cycle around, and bikes can be parked almost anywhere on campus.
The University of Namur, "Tous vélo-actifs" pilot entity
To improve conditions for cycling and significantly develop its use in Wallonia, the Walloon Government launched the Cycling Wallonia Plan at the end of 2010. "Tous vélo-actifs" is one of the actions of this plan, steered by the Service Public de Wallonie. Its aim is to encourage workers to commute to work by bike. UNamur joined the project during the second phase of entity recruitment. Following the latest audit, the university was awarded 4 out of 5 stars for the Label vélo-actifs. Only 1 star remains to be obtained!
The university's Bicycle Group, an informal group made up of a few regular or occasional cyclists and bicycle promoters, has drawn up an action plan as part of the "Tous vélo-actifs" project. Participation in this group is open to any interested university member.
Find a route
Information on how to get to UNamur by bike is available on the "access to the university" page.
If you arrive in Namur by train, there are solutions for combining train, bus and bike.
Be advised, sponsored, coached or trained
Some members of the Bicycle Group regularly cycle to the University. They've tested the best cycling routes, outwitting traffic traps and avoiding dangerous junctions. Others have long been reluctant to get on their bikes and take the big step towards gentle, non-polluting mobility. Let's bring together the experiences of some and the desires of others!
The members of the Bicycle Group are at your disposal to share information with you on the best routes. Some of them have undergone bike-coaching training and will be delighted to accompany you on your first journeys. Don't hesitate to contact them. A way for you to discover the safest route and a few tricks to ride less dangerously through Namur's traffic...
There are also formations outside the University.
Bicycle allowance
Since January 1, 2008 the University has granted a bicycle allowance per kilometer traveled to those who come to work by bike (intranet document).
Safety on the commute
- As part of the Namur Bicycle Plan, the city of Namur is developing infrastructure (bike paths, etc.) to make commutes increasingly safe.
- The cycling map of Namur to help you identify the best route.
- Good equipment is essential: chasuble, helmet and good lighting will ensure visibility and reassurance.
- Gaining experience is possible:
- from cycling training to guard against hazards;
- regular cyclists can sponsor you and give you information on busy times, safest routes;
- Employer's insurance applies for commuting to and from work.
Bicycle security (theft, damage,...)
- Engraving: your national number can be inscribed on the bike frame, it's a great anti-theft device!
- two locked bike rooms are available for UNamur staff members and four veloboxes with five places each are available for students.
Bicycle parking on campus
Consult the "Access to the University" page.