The best traffic-free bike rides around Herenthout
4.5
(75)
2,391
riders
134
rides
Gravel biking around Herenthout offers diverse terrain for no traffic gravel bike trails. The region is characterized by extensive forests, heathlands, and fens, providing varied surfaces and scenery. Many routes feature flat, car-free paths along canals and rivers, alongside trails traversing woodlands and open landscapes. The terrain generally has minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for a range of gravel bikers.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Herenthout
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is The Zwart…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
4.7
(3)
220
riders
44.4km
02:49
130m
130m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
53
riders
109km
06:31
200m
200m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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3.0
(4)
93
riders
33.7km
02:07
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
57
riders
53.9km
03:10
120m
120m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
39
riders
66.9km
04:04
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Herenthout
Tips from the Community
Hill located in Herselt, at the top there is a wine estate where you can also have a drink.
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The Grote Nete, roughly speaking, marks the transition to the Kempen region. This rain-fed river flows through a diverse landscape with vast marshlands, sandy grasslands, and mixed forests. The Grote Nete valley includes the Grote Laak, Kleine Laak, Rode Laak, Wimp, Herselt Loop, and Zaartloop. Source and more (with hiking tips) at https://www.landschapsparkdemerode.be/vallei-van-de-grote-nete
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The Liniebrug bicycle and pedestrian bridge is part of the Liniefietsweg (Line Cycle Path), which is approximately 800 meters long and also includes a small bridge over the Steenkesbrug and new bicycle posts. Day trippers, such as hikers, also benefit: Hulshout is located in the Grote Nete valley, where the Sigma Plan is creating "wet nature." No fewer than 850 hectares of flower-rich grasslands and reed beds will be added, the favorite habitat of numerous unique plants and animals. This wet nature also serves a safety function. It acts like a sponge and retains water, so flooding should soon be a thing of the past. Source and more information on the Sigma Plan website: https://www.sigmaplan.be/nl/nieuws/liniebrug-over-grote-nete-feestelijk-ingefietst You can also find more information about the Sigma Plan in the region at the information board of the Paddle Route on Netestraat (the large bridge that forms the border between Westmeerbeek and Heultje), specifically on the back of that information board. See https://www.komoot.com/nl-nl/highlight/8241341 Both the bridge and the road take their names from a nearby large body of water, called "De Linie" (The Line), located west of the other pond, "De Poer."
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This isn't the main entrance. This entrance immediately leads you past the old sheepfold (later a cowshed), the old abbey farm (built in 1640), and the old washhouse (built in 1640).
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Don't hesitate to enter this abbey. The large courtyard is surrounded by various buildings that you can explore at your leisure. You can also visit a permanent exhibition, open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
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Generations of castle lords and the village community have cared for the magnificent heritage we have today. We must cherish this legacy with care. Everyone has a responsibility in this regard: the government, the owners, and certainly also the visitors. We all want to safeguard this for future generations. VORSELAAR: Proposal to protect the castle "de Borrekens", the rectory, the immediate surroundings of the castle, and the linden avenue as a village landmark. The castle was built in the thirteenth century as a military fortification for the Duke of Brabant, granted as a fief to the Lord Van Rotselaer. The latter gave the fortification, which had the character of a moated castle, the ground plan that can still largely be seen today. Little is known about its evolution since the thirteenth century. The castle is depicted in a print by Ertinger in the second half of the seventeenth century and published by Jacques Le Roy. This shows that the current castle's core still largely reflects this condition. The building's military character was lost in the eighteenth century, and it was converted into a "house of pleasure." This involved the demolition of several surrounding walls and defensive towers, and the moat separating the forecourt from the castle was filled in. Simultaneously or shortly before, several embellishments were carried out on the castle, with J.P. van Baurscheit as the architect. The buildings in the forecourt were constructed during the same period. In the 1850s and 1860s, restoration work was carried out in keeping with the fashion of the time. Several dormers, stepped gables, fireplaces, turrets, and battlements were added in the Neo-Gothic style. The interior was also altered during this period and in the same style. Although this renovation significantly altered the castle's appearance, the renovation itself is remarkable as a testament to the Neo-Gothic style that emerged in our region around 1850.
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Exciting in the pitch dark
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Herenthout?
Herenthout offers a wide selection of car-free gravel bike trails. You'll find over 100 routes specifically designed for a peaceful cycling experience, with options ranging from easy to difficult.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic gravel trails in Herenthout?
The region around Herenthout features diverse terrain ideal for gravel biking. You'll encounter extensive forests, heathlands, and fens, providing a mix of surfaces. Many routes also follow flat, car-free paths along canals and rivers, offering smooth sections. The area generally has minimal elevation changes, making for enjoyable rides.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Herenthout?
Yes, many of the car-free paths along canals and rivers are flat and accessible, making them suitable for families. The tranquil natural areas and minimal elevation changes ensure a relaxed ride for cyclists of varying fitness levels, including children.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel bike trails around Herenthout?
While many natural areas in Belgium are dog-friendly, it's always best to check local regulations for specific trails or nature reserves. Generally, dogs on a leash are permitted on public paths. Ensure your dog is comfortable with cycling speeds and other trail users.
What are some cultural landmarks or points of interest I can see along the trails?
Cycling routes in Herenthout often lead past interesting cultural landmarks. You might encounter windmills, adding a historical dimension to your ride. Additionally, you can explore nearby castles like Borrekens Castle or Jeanne de Merode Castle, which are often accessible from the wider cycling network.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, while many routes are relatively flat, there are longer and more demanding options. For instance, the Grote Nete – Entrance Abbey Tongerlo loop from Olen is a difficult 53.9 km route, and the Gravel Track Near the Airport – Merksplas Colony loop from Wolfstee is a difficult 85 km ride, offering a greater challenge for experienced gravel bikers.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Herenthout?
Herenthout is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also great, especially with shaded woodland paths. Winter rides are possible, but be mindful of potential wet or muddy conditions on unpaved sections.
Where can I find parking near the no-traffic gravel trails?
Many trailheads and popular starting points in and around Herenthout offer parking facilities. Look for designated parking areas near natural parks, recreational zones, or village centers, which often provide convenient access to the car-free cycling network.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel routes?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Herenthout are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the The Zwart Water – Singletrack in the Forest loop from Wolfstee is a popular circular option.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Herenthout?
The gravel biking routes in Herenthout are highly regarded by the Komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars. Reviewers often praise the tranquil natural areas, the variety of landscapes, and the well-maintained car-free paths that make for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.
Are there any places to stop for refreshments along the trails?
While specific cafes directly on every trail might vary, the routes often pass through or near villages and towns where you can find local establishments. It's a good idea to plan your route with potential stops in mind or carry your own snacks and drinks, especially on longer rides.
What is the typical distance and duration of the no-traffic gravel bike trails?
The trails vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter, easier loops like the 17.7 km 'Bouwel Windmill – De Stoeter Statue loop' (mentioned in region research) for a couple of hours, or longer, more challenging routes such as the MTB Trail in Vorselaar – Gravel Bike Path loop from Bouwel, which is 66.8 km and can take over 4 hours to complete.
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