The most beautiful cycling routes in the Kempen
Welcome to the Kempen region, the green heart of Flanders, spread across the provinces of Antwerp and Limburg. A paradise for those who love peace, nature and relaxed rides. Imagine vast pine forests, moors and fens stretching across the landscape like a patchwork, where you cycle at your own pace, away from the hustle and bustle. Find plenty of places to take a break in picturesque villages or on a cosy terrace.
In this blog, we discuss the most beautiful Kempen cycling routes, ideal for a day of relaxation on two wheels.
'Cycling through the Trees' in Bosland National Park (± 36 km)
Starting point: Lommel, node 272
Top terrace: Café De Bosrand
Surface: Paved paths, ideal for any bike
Cycle through the largest continuous forest area in Flanders, National Park Bosland. This route takes you through shady forests, open moorlands and vast grasslands. A particular highlight is Cycling Through the Trees Path, where you cycle among the tops of trees for a unique experience. Along the way, you'll pass the serene German Military Cemetery in Lommel.
Highlights along the way:
- Cycling Through the Trees Path for a view from the treetops
- German Military Cemetery in Lommel
- The beautiful Den Brand, with its impressive country dunes
Did you know: you can also cycle this The Kempen region virtually? Discover it here .
Info and route: Visit Limburg
In the vicinity of Postel Abbey (± 56 km)
Starting point: Postel Abbey, Abdijlaan 16, Mol or Ecocentrum De Goren, Postelsesteenweg 71, Mol
Top terrace: Pancake boat
Surface: paved, 80% traffic-free.
This scenic cycling in the Kempen region 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
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. The route is perfect for an active day trip, where you not only follow Peeters' ways, but also learn about the history and beauty of his home region.
Ravito (refreshment stop): Finish your ride at Café ’t Smetje with a fresh pint.
Route can be found via Visit Mol
Kempen Gravel Ride – Zoersel (± 60 km)
Start & finish: Zoersel
The Kempen region? An absolute 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
MTB route Kasterlee
Kasterlee: little gnomes, giant pumpkins and blissful MTB routes! The established cycling routes meander 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
Starting point: Kasterlee sports hall
Tip: Be sure to also pick up the black loop at 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 cycle routes around Kasterlee - and connections to Herentals and Retie, for example - can be found here
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