The best traffic-free bike rides in the Ardennes

There are over 900 no traffic road cycling routes in the Ardennes, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find everything from moderate rides to more challenging routes with significant elevation.

The Ardennes is characterized by rolling hills, dense forests, and winding river valleys. Expect constant elevation changes with challenging ascents and descents. While not alpine, the region offers a rewarding and varied topography, with many routes utilizing quiet roads and former railway lines like the RAVeL paths and Vennbahn Rail Trail for a car-free experience.

Yes, some routes will take you past stunning natural features. For example, the Amblève loop via the Coo waterfall offers a chance to see Belgium's highest waterfall. The region also boasts other natural wonders like the Bayehon Waterfall and impressive cave systems.

Many routes offer scenic viewpoints and pass by charming towns and historic sites. You might encounter impressive citadels overlooking rivers, medieval castles, or picturesque villages. The region is also home to highlights like the Baraque Michel, a well-known hut, and the Botrange Nature Discovery Trail.

Absolutely. The Ardennes benefits from networks of quiet cycling trails, often built on former railway lines, such as the RAVeL paths and the Vennbahn Rail Trail. These car-free greenways are ideal for families, offering safe and enjoyable rides through forests and open farmland with gentle gradients.

The best time for road cycling in the Ardennes is typically between May and September. During these months, temperatures are mild, and daylight hours are long, providing ideal conditions for exploring the region's diverse routes.

For those seeking a challenge, the Ardennes offers routes with significant elevation gain. The loop from Charleville-Mézières is a difficult route covering nearly 100 km with over 1300 meters of ascent. The region is also known for iconic climbs featured in professional races, providing ample opportunities for endurance rides.

Yes, many of the no traffic road cycling routes in the Ardennes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Amblève loop and the Monschau Old Town loop.

The Ardennes is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.46 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and challenging terrain, the stunning natural scenery of its forests and river valleys, and the extensive network of quiet, car-free routes that provide a tranquil cycling experience.

Many starting points for cycling routes in the Ardennes, especially those on converted rail trails or near popular towns, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for information on parking availability at the trailhead.

Yes, the Ardennes features charming towns and villages throughout its landscape. Many routes pass through or near these settlements, offering opportunities to stop at cafes, pubs, or restaurants for refreshments. You'll also find picnic spots, like the Semois Riverside Picnic Spot, along some trails.

Yes, among the over 900 routes, there are 153 classified as easy. These often utilize the flatter sections of river valleys or the gentle gradients of converted rail trails like the RAVeL network, providing a comfortable and safe experience for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride.