The best traffic-free bike rides around Herentals

There are over 120 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes around Herentals, offering a wide range of options for cyclists looking for peaceful rides. The majority of these, around 70, are rated as easy, making them accessible for most riders.

Herentals and the surrounding Kempen region offer diverse landscapes for car-free cycling. You'll find routes along the **Kleine Nete river** and the **Albert Canal**, through extensive forests, and past unique nature reserves like Lovenhoek Nature Reserve and The Zwart Water. The region also features the Kempense Heuvelrug, with its sandy soils, heathland, and fens.

Yes, many routes are circular and can be combined for longer rides. For example, the moderate Albert Canal towpath – Grobbendonk Watermill loop from Herentals is a substantial 84 km route that offers a full day of cycling along the canal and through the countryside.

Many routes pass by notable attractions. You can cycle past historical sites like the Beguinage of Herentals, or admire castles such as Borrekens Castle. Nature lovers will enjoy the Zwart Water nature reserve, known for its unique fen landscape, or the restored meanders of the Kleine Nete in De Hellekens. The De Paepekelders Tourist Tower – Keeses Mill loop from Herentals offers views from the Toeristentoren.

Absolutely. Herentals is known for its extensive network of safe, level, and well-signposted cycle paths, many of which are car-free and ideal for families. Routes along the Kleine Nete river and the Albert Canal towpath are particularly popular for their flat terrain and scenic beauty. The The Zwart Water nature reserve – De Paepekelders Tourist Tower loop from Herentals is an easy 22 km option that takes you through a beautiful nature reserve.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally considered the best for touring cycling in Herentals, offering pleasant temperatures and lush green landscapes. However, the well-maintained paths along canals and through forests can also be enjoyed in autumn for their vibrant colors, and even in milder winter conditions, though some unpaved segments might be less accessible.

Herentals is well-connected by public transport, particularly by train, making it a convenient starting point for many cycling routes. The town's status as an important cycling city in Flanders means many routes are easily accessible from the town center, often near the train station, allowing you to start your car-free adventure directly.

While many routes are easy, there are options for more advanced cyclists seeking longer distances or slightly more varied terrain. The Le Paige Castle – Borrekens Castle loop from Herentals is a difficult 51 km route that offers a good challenge. Some routes through the Kempense Heuvelrug might also feature unpaved segments and gentle elevation changes.

Herentals offers various parking facilities within and around the town center, making it convenient to park your car before starting your no-traffic cycling tour. Many routes are designed to be accessible from central locations, often with designated parking areas nearby. It's advisable to check local parking information upon arrival.

The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Herentals, with an average score of 4.2 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, car-free nature of the routes, the beautiful scenery along the rivers and canals, and the excellent network of well-maintained paths that make for a relaxing and enjoyable ride.

Yes, the region is well-equipped with cafes and eateries, especially in and around Herentals and the smaller villages you might pass through. Many routes are designed to connect with local amenities, allowing for pleasant breaks. For example, the Het Boshuisje (De Loteling), Zoerselbos is a popular cafe highlight that could be incorporated into a tour.

The duration varies significantly depending on the route length and your cycling pace. Easy routes like the 22 km The Zwart Water nature reserve – De Paepekelders Tourist Tower loop from Herentals can take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Longer, moderate routes such as the 51 km De Paepekelders Tourist Tower – Keeses Mill loop from Herentals might take 3 to 4 hours, while the most extensive routes could be a full day's adventure.