The most beautiful cycling routes in Antwerp
Get on your bike and discover the varied landscape of the province of Antwerp. Whether you enjoy gentle rides along canals or are looking for a challenging off-road experience, Antwerp offers something for everyone. Cycle past the historic abbey of Postel, discover endless gravel paths or test your skills on the technical MTB trails. Enjoy nature and the unmistakable charm of the Antwerp Kempen region. In this article, we discuss the most beautiful cycling routes in Antwerp.
Tourist bicycle routes in Antwerp
In the vicinity of Postel Abbey (± 56 km)
Starting point: Postel Abbey, Abdijlaan 16, Mol or Ecocentrum De Goren, Postelsesteenweg 71, Mol
Top terrace tip: Pancake boat
Surface: paved, 80% traffic-free.
This scenic cycling route takes you through
peaceful forests, alongside straight-as-an-arrow canals, and through the unique border region between Belgium and the Netherlands.
As the name suggests, the route loops around the centuries-old Postel Abbey, a serene and historic site founded in 1140 by the Premonstratensians.
You can choose your own adventure:
- Go for the full 56 km circuit – ideal for a full day in the saddle
- or opt for the shorter 27 km southern loop – perfect for a relaxed family outing
A highlight along the shorter route is a local favourite: the Pancake Boat in Dessel (node 74), where you can stop for a sweet or savoury treat right by the water.
Highlights along the way:
- The iconic Sas4 viewing tower with sweeping views over the three-canal node
- Peaceful Postel Abbey, complete with herb garden and abbey shop
- The De Ronde Put nature reserve, impressive locks, and historic Bailey Bridge
- The Zilvermeer marina – a perfect summer terrace stop
Route and info: Toerisme Mol
Cycling routes in Antwerp
Wilfried Peeters route (± 77 km)
Starting point: Café 't Smetje, Sluis 180, 2400 Mol
Today, he is invariably in the support car as team leader for top athletes such as Remco Evenepoel, but he was once a respected professional cyclist himself. He did his training runs on these very roads. The route takes you along the rural roads of the Kempen region, where Peeters rode his first cycling kilometres. It is ideal for cyclists who enjoy quiet, paved roads . This is the perfect route for a sporty day trip, not only following in Peeters’ tracks, but also discovering the history and beauty of his home region.
Ravito (refreshment stop): Finish your ride at Café ’t Smetje with a fresh pint.
Route via Visit Mol
Offroad routes in Antwerp: gravel & MTB
1. Kempen Gravel Ride – Zoersel (± 60 km)
Start & finish: Zoersel
The Kempen region? Definitely a gravel gem. Wide forest paths, quiet dirt roads, and a surprising amount of flow. Ideal for both beginners and experienced gravel riders who want to combine speed with nature.
Coffee break:
Café Fringale
(Zoersel)
Managed by ex-pro cyclist Kris Boeckmans – aka Barista Boekie – this is where racing and coffee meet. An authentic vibe, flawless espressos, and cycling coverage regularly playing on the big screen. There’s no better place to wrap up your ride.
Route via Komoot
2. MTB route Ravels (ATB Club Ravels)
Starting point: Canteen ABT-Kempen, Raaftuinweg 8, 2380 Ravels
Ravels’ established MTB route is a classic for riders who love sandy terrain, singletracks, and plenty of variety. The route is signposted with Sport Vlaanderen arrows and consists of several loops, together totalling about 50 km.
The local loop starting at the ATB Kempen canteen is just 6 kilometres, but make no mistake – it packs in drops, other technical features, and no fewer than 140 turns. Explore first, then turn on the gas – that’s the message.
Highlights:
- Technical cornering on the local ATB track in Ravels
- Wide sandy stretches through the Turnhout Fens area
- Quiet, traffic-free surroundings
Level: rookie to intermediate
Tip: During the MTB season, you can join the famous Thursday evening practice rides here. Just under an hour of full throttle – perfect for getting the engine running.
GPX and info can be found here.
3. MTB route Kasterlee
Starting point: Kasterlee sports hall
Kasterlee: little gnomes, giant pumpkins and blissful MTB routes! The routes here wind through the Kempen forests and moors. Asphalt? Not available ...
Highlights:
- Summer sandy stretches
- Technical passages, such as Sven Nys' famous pit
- Well-maintained trails
Level: rookie to intermediate
Tip: Be sure to also include the black loop at the Floréal campsite in Lichtaart. This is the weekly training ground for numerous cyclocross professionals. Don’t be surprised if one comes flying past you at full throttle!
All routes around Kasterlee – and connections to Herentals, Retie, and beyond – can be found here.
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