The best traffic-free bike rides around Oud-Turnhout
4.3
(237)
5,170
riders
236
rides
Gravel biking around Oud-Turnhout offers a diverse landscape characterized by extensive networks of no traffic gravel bike trails. The region features a blend of natural beauty, including forests, fens, and sand dunes, alongside car-free canal pathways. This area in the Kempen region of Belgium provides varied terrain, from quiet forest paths to wide gravel roads and sandy strips through heathland. The landscape is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various skill levels.
Best no traffic gravel…
Last updated: October 31, 2026
4.3
(3)
81
riders
98.0km
05:30
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
36
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.0
(3)
13
riders
30.0km
01:49
40m
40m
Easy gravel ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.6
(5)
85
riders
78.8km
04:23
120m
120m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
13
riders
119km
06:39
170m
170m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Popular around Oud-Turnhout
Tips from the Community
The Grotenhoutbos, also known as the Gierlese Bos, is a forest in Flanders, southwest of Turnhout, on the border of the municipalities of Vosselaar and Gierle. It covers an area of 375 hectares and is part of the Natura 2000 area "Forest and heathland areas east of Antwerp." https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grotenhoutbos
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A silent witness to the history of the Wortel Colony. This former prison recalls the strictly regulated living and working conditions of the colony, where the poor and vagrants were housed and forced into labor. Stroll past this historic building and experience the special atmosphere of a place that once shaped the daily lives of many.
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beautiful recently renovated cycle path
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This is a very nice place to take a break.
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Former vagrant colony, a beautiful large domain with many avenues.
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In 1914, Baron Alfons van der Straten Waillet inherited the castle. By dividing it among his children, it passed to his 4th son, Baron Jacques van der Straten Waillet, in 1973. In 1978, the castle, which has perfectly preserved its appearance from 1561, was protected as a monument. After the death of Baron Jacques van der Straten Waillet in 1984, the castle was inhabited by his widow, born Countess Christiane de Lannoy, and his sister, Lady Marie-Josephe van der Straten Waillet. After the death of the baroness in 2022, the castle was put up for sale. The asking price was 3.8 million euros. The municipality of Malle decided to purchase the castle after a survey among its residents. This purchase was largely financed by the Kempens Landschap Foundation. Source Wikipedia
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In 1695, the last heir of the Cottereau family owed a lot of money to Pierre Farisau, and later to his heir Filips Robijns. In 1702, the castle was claimed by the creditors, but the court returned the castle to Lady Moytray, the widow of the Cottereau. In 1738, her brother inherited the castle and it was sold to the heirs of Filips Robijns. The castle then had the appearance of a fortified castle with a monumental gate, drawbridge, double rampart and forecourt. These heirs sold the castle to Jacques Benoit Pauwens in 1743. The Pauwens family lived in the castle until 1847. In 1829, Baron de Norman renovated the castle. His children sold the castle in 1848 to an Antwerp diamond merchant, Mr Bovie. He renovated the castle and a garden was created by the landscape architect Koelich. From 1874 to 1878 the castle belonged to Louis Geelhand. Baron de Turck de Kersbeeck bought the castle in 1878 and had the building restored and renovated by architect Schadde.
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The Westmalle Castle is located in the village of Westmalle in the municipality of Malle. The origins of the castle go back to a large fortified farm, the Mansus de Trisco (Dutch: Hoeve Ten Driessche), which was founded around 1100. The farm was the residence of the representatives, the meiers, of the Dukes of Brabant. In 1449, the estate was sold by Philip the Good as Duke of Brabant to Henri van der Moelen, a municipal councilor of Antwerp. In 1505, his son, knight Hendrik van der Moelen, received all feudal rights from Philip I of Castile (also known in the Netherlands as Philip the Fair). Hendrik's grandson, Evrard de Cottereau, built the current castle in 1561. The avenue to the church of Westmalle was constructed in 1650.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Oud-Turnhout?
Oud-Turnhout boasts a vast network of car-free paths, with over 170 gravel bike trails available. These routes offer a diverse range of experiences, from easy spins to more challenging rides, all designed to keep you away from vehicle traffic.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Oud-Turnhout?
The terrain around Oud-Turnhout is wonderfully varied, making it ideal for gravel biking. You'll encounter a mix of quiet forest paths, wide gravel roads, and sandy strips winding through heathland and fens. The region, part of the Kempen, is generally flat but offers dynamic riding with seamless transitions between different surfaces, often described as 'made for gravelbikers'.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, Oud-Turnhout offers several easy, traffic-free gravel routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. One excellent option is the Kesseven - Gewestbos Ravels – Marneffedreef loop from Oud-Turnhout Werkendam, which is rated as easy and provides a pleasant introduction to the region's car-free paths.
What are some interesting natural features or landmarks I can see along these routes?
The no-traffic gravel routes in Oud-Turnhout often pass through or near significant natural and historical sites. You can explore Landschap De Liereman, one of Belgium's oldest nature reserves, or discover the distinctive sand dunes of De Hoge Mouw, often called the 'sleeping giant'. Historic sites like Postel Abbey are also accessible, offering cultural stops amidst your ride.
Can I find loop routes for gravel biking without traffic?
Absolutely! Many of the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Oud-Turnhout are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A great example is the PiereLiereBinkenpad and Teljorenlekkersroute Loop, which offers a substantial car-free journey through the scenic landscape.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Oud-Turnhout?
Spring and summer are particularly recommended for gravel biking in Oud-Turnhout. In spring, you'll enjoy blooming flowers and fresh greenery, while summer offers longer daylight hours for extended rides. The generally mild climate of the Kempen region makes it pleasant for outdoor activities during these seasons.
Are there any longer, more challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced gravel bikers seeking a longer, traffic-free challenge, Oud-Turnhout has options. Consider the MTB Trail in Vorselaar – Gravel Track Near the Airport loop from Oud-Turnhout, which covers nearly 96 km with a moderate elevation gain, providing a demanding yet rewarding experience on car-free paths.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Oud-Turnhout?
The no-traffic gravel trails around Oud-Turnhout are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquility of the extensive car-free network, the diverse natural landscapes including heathlands and fens, and the seamless blend of different surfaces that make for an engaging gravel biking experience.
Are the no-traffic gravel trails suitable for families or those with dogs?
Many of the car-free paths in Oud-Turnhout, especially the easier and flatter sections through forests and along canals, are suitable for families. When bringing dogs, it's always best to check local regulations for nature reserves and ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where required. The quiet nature of these trails makes them generally pleasant for both.
Where can I find more information about gravel biking in the wider Turnhout region?
For additional insights into gravel biking opportunities and events in the broader Turnhout area, which is recognized as a significant gravel biking hub, you can visit the official tourism website: visitturnhout.be. They often provide details on local initiatives and routes, including those related to the UCI Gravel World Series hosted in the region.
Are there any routes that combine natural beauty with historical sites?
Absolutely. The region is rich in both. For instance, the area around Priorij Corsendonk features picturesque apple orchards alongside a historic priory. Many routes are designed to connect these points of interest, allowing you to enjoy the natural landscapes while also encountering cultural heritage. The Merksplas Colony and Turnhout Fens Loop is a great example, combining natural fens with the historical significance of the Merksplas Colony.
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