The best traffic-free bike rides around Tervuren
4.5
(834)
5,938
riders
138
rides
Gravel biking around Tervuren features a diverse landscape primarily defined by the expansive Sonian Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient beech trees and extensive gravel paths. The terrain includes a mix of wide, unpaved lanes, technical singletracks, and occasional cobblestones, with varying elevation changes. The region also encompasses the Park of Tervuren and the Arboretum of Tervuren, offering tree-lined avenues and natural forest environments. These natural features provide a varied experience for gravel bikers, from gentle…
Last updated: May 19, 2026
5.0
(6)
33
riders
65.2km
04:28
600m
600m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
10
riders
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
riders
41.6km
02:30
370m
370m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
36
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
9
riders
24.6km
01:21
220m
220m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Other adventures around Tervuren
Tips from the Community
Definitely stop by Ernesto koffie (right at the roundabout Walensebaan and Smisstraat), a cozy little food truck right by the ponds. There are also cozy seating areas provided at the food truck itself. Delicious coffee and wonderful pastries. Ideal for a refueling stop. Super friendly service. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30
0
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Nice cycling with a good surface and no traffic.
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This road is called Hakenstakendreef today and connects the current Groenendaal station with the tunnel under Sint-Jansberglaan, which leads you to the former racecourse (and the restored Royal Box). The Hakenstakendreef is incidentally mentioned in a building application as the "chemin d'accès" (access road) that led to the now-nonexistent Groenendaal-Hippodroom station. See https://hoeilaart.weleer.be/renbaan-groenendaal/2904 At the beginning of the avenue, you will find information boards about the forest; at the end, by the tunnel, is part of the former racecourse car park where this station once stood, and where racehorses, as well as people, were brought by train. You are therefore walking in a once very popular area, as at its peak, around fifty horse races were organized in Groenendaal (before the First World War). But you won't see much more than the gravel road and trees (until you reach the remains of the car park and the tunnel).
2
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Two picnic benches at a point where various paths meet, located between the (natural) play area on one side and the chapel and ponds on the other. At the chapel there are regular benches to sit on.
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The Groenendaal racecourse was built in 1888-1889 on the initiative of Leopold II in the middle of the Sonian Forest, next to the road to Waterloo, and in 1892, as part of easy access, it received its own railway connection to Groenendaal station. To realize this racecourse, approximately 100 hectares of forest were cleared at the end of the 19th century. King Leopold II had his own box there, located between two metal grandstands for the public. After the First World War, this area was used for the dismantling of weapons and ammunition left behind in the Westhoek. German prisoners of war had to clear mines under the supervision of the Belgian army. During a fire and the subsequent explosions of ammunition on May 6, 1919, the hippodrome's grandstands and buildings were heavily damaged. After another explosion in November, the ammunition depot was completely dismantled in 1920. Two years later, the racecourse was restored and the grandstands were rebuilt. The royal box for Albert I was not rebuilt until 1924. Its appearance was completely different from the pre-war grandstand. When the current appearance came about is not entirely clear, although the current box is attributed to Albert I in the literature, see also monogram. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Royal Box and remains of bookmaker's room, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/302991
4
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On this section, you can enjoy the rolling landscape. The cycle path is in perfect condition.
5
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Nice challenge through the glowing landscape.
5
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On this path, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Dijle landscape. Enjoy it to the fullest at a moderate speed.
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many traffic-free gravel bike trails are available around Tervuren?
Tervuren offers a wide selection of traffic-free gravel bike trails, with over 140 routes available. These range from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Tervuren?
The terrain around Tervuren is diverse, offering an engaging experience for gravel bikers. You'll encounter a mix of cobblestones, technical singletracks, wide gravel paths, and challenging climbs. Many routes feature unpaved lanes and some steep slopes, especially within and around the Sonian Forest.
Are there any easy, family-friendly gravel bike routes without traffic in Tervuren?
Yes, there are several easy, traffic-free options suitable for families. For a relatively flat and accessible ride, consider routes that explore the Park of Tervuren or the Arboretum. While not explicitly listed as 'easy' in the data, the region offers 21 routes categorized as easy, which often include wider, well-maintained paths perfect for a relaxed family outing.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Many routes will take you through the magnificent Sonian Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stately beech trees. You can also explore the Geographic Arboretum of Tervuren with its diverse tree collection. Some trails pass by the Drowned Children Ponds or offer views of the Domaine Solvay.
Where can I park my car when starting a gravel bike ride in Tervuren?
A convenient starting point with ample parking is Sportcomplex Diependal. This location also offers amenities like toilets, showers, and bike cleaning facilities, making it an ideal base for your gravel biking adventure.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in Tervuren?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Tervuren are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Heverlee Plateau – Gravel Path by the River loop from Vossem, which offers a challenging 65 km ride.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Tervuren?
Tervuren is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer can be great, especially in the shaded parts of the Sonian Forest. Winter rides are also possible, though some paths might be muddier or require more robust tires.
Can I find cafes or refreshment stops along the gravel trails?
Yes, after a ride, you can find refreshments at places like Cafetaria Diependal, located near the Sportcomplex Diependal starting point. Many routes also pass through or near villages where local cafes and pubs offer opportunities for a break.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Tervuren?
The gravel bike trails around Tervuren are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, the variety of terrain, and the well-maintained paths that make for an excellent traffic-free riding experience.
Are there any longer, more challenging traffic-free gravel routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a challenge, routes like the View of Terhulpen Castle – Lake Genval loop from Duisburg offer over 40 km with significant elevation gain. The region features 47 routes categorized as difficult, providing plenty of options for longer, more demanding adventures.
How accessible are the gravel bike trails in Tervuren by public transport?
Tervuren itself is well-connected by public transport, particularly buses from Brussels, which can get you close to various starting points for the trails. Many routes seamlessly connect Tervuren with the broader Brabantse Wouden National Park, making it feasible to access different sections of the network using public transport.
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