The best traffic-free bike rides around Leuven
4.3
(3834)
59,255
riders
2,275
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes around Leuven benefit from the city's commitment to sustainable mobility and its diverse natural surroundings. The region features extensive green spaces, including the Meerdaal forest within the Brabantse Wouden National Park, and the Dijle river flowing through the city. Cyclists can explore a landscape characterized by historic abbeys, tranquil parks, and varied countryside, offering a mix of flat paths and gentle inclines. This infrastructure provides a network of car-free and quiet routes suitable for touring…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.5
(85)
383
riders
39.2km
02:23
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(53)
274
riders
32.1km
02:10
210m
210m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.5
(34)
223
riders
42.0km
02:31
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(14)
87
riders
41.0km
02:30
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(12)
45
riders
23.5km
01:27
150m
150m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
At a moderate speed you can fully enjoy the Brabantse Woud.
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Park Abbey is considered one of the best-preserved abbeys in Western Europe. Besides the abbey and its church, the complex also includes an estate and extensive grounds with meadows and ponds. Although the abbey largely dates from the 17th and 18th centuries, its history goes back to 1129, when the Duke of Brabant gifted his hunting grounds in Leuven to the Premonstratensians. The Premonstratensians, or Norbertines, were considered wealthy and powerful and were therefore called the "Park Princes." They led a privileged life and devoted themselves to art and literature. The abbey's library once housed a renowned collection of manuscripts and early printed books. The abbots adorned the interiors with works of art, including the stained-glass windows by Jean de Caumont in the cloister and the stucco ceilings by Jan Christiaen Hansche. Source: Flemishmastersinsitu.com
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Opening hours: Sunday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM Monday Closed Tuesday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM Wednesday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM Thursday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM Friday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM Saturday 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
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Beautiful view of Hageland...
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The Abbey Café of Het Moment is a special place: in a historically important place you can enjoy a menu, most of the dishes of which are prepared with at least one Averbode product: beer, cheese, bread, gingerbread or speculaas. The Abbey Café also houses the impressive home brewery: the place where various Averbode beers are brewed, which you can only drink there. They are not bottled. When the weather is nice, the terrace offers the most beautiful view in the entire region: the Abbey of Averbode in all its glory. More info: https://averbodemoment.be/nl/belevingscentrum/abdijcafe/
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The core of Horst Castle probably dates back to the 13th century and is characterised by a square keep. The keep probably belonged to the oldest core that was further expanded into a fortified castle in the 15th century. During the troubles under Maximilian of Austria in 1489, the castle of Horst was taken by the people of Leuven and set on fire. According to literary sources, only the keep, part of the entrance gate and a defensive wall remained standing. The residential and east wing were renovated and expanded in the 16th century. The round tower also dates from this period. The outer wall was provided with a rectangular bay window. The castle lost its military character and became more of a pleasant residential area with a view of the moat, the ponds and the inner courtyard. Brick construction with sandstone layers characterise these buildings. In 1587, however, the castle was set on fire again during the raids of the Geuzen. It was not until the beginning of the 17th century that restoration work began. It is difficult to deduce from the available sources to what extent this involved restoration or an embellishing conversion of the castle complex. Presumably nothing changed in the internal structure, but only after the structurally necessary repairs were the interiors completely refinished. Maria-Anna Van den Tympel had a new chapel built against the keep in the 17th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, the complex must have been damaged by plundering and neglect, and it is possible that it also suffered from plundering during the Brabant Revolution of 1830. Around 1850, the castle must have been habitable again, but the castle buildings only served as a farm. In the land registry, the site around the castle is called "De Notelaren Boomgaerd". Around that time, the most dilapidated part must have been demolished, namely the southern part and the superstructure of the gate. The rest of the complex was probably restored with reused demolition material and in traditional style. The castle was divided in 1880, with one part being registered as a school house. In 1897, a further division followed, with two plots being designated as houses. Several restoration campaigns followed in the 20th century. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Horst Castle, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/43619
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Since December, there has been a spire on the castle again after the unstable spire was removed more than four years ago and could be viewed on a wooden platform in the pond. Now it is back. And the other works are also progressing quickly. More about the replaced spire on https://www.vrt.be/vrtnws/nl/2024/12/10/torenspits-staat-weer-op-kasteel-van-horst-holsbeek/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available around Leuven?
Komoot offers over 200 no-traffic touring cycling routes around Leuven. These routes are designed to provide a serene cycling experience, often utilizing dedicated bike paths, quiet country roads, and forest trails, minimizing interaction with car traffic.
Are there easy no-traffic touring routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Leuven offers numerous easy no-traffic routes perfect for beginners and families. For example, the Bertembos and Eikenbos Loop is an excellent choice, providing a gentle ride through scenic woodlands. Many routes within the city's parks and along the Dijle river are also very accessible.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these no-traffic routes?
The no-traffic routes around Leuven traverse a diverse range of landscapes. You'll cycle through lush forests like the Meerdaal forest, explore historic abbey grounds such as Park Abbey, and enjoy tranquil paths along the Dijle river. The region also features picturesque parks and open countryside, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Are there any circular no-traffic touring routes?
Yes, many no-traffic touring routes around Leuven are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The Bertembos and Eikenbos Loop is a great example of a circular route, offering a convenient and enjoyable ride without the need for return transport.
What attractions can I see along the no-traffic touring cycling routes?
Many routes pass by significant attractions. For instance, the Horstroute takes you near the impressive Horst Castle. You can also discover historical sites like Averbode Abbey or enjoy natural highlights such as the Chartreuzen Forest and the Demer Towpath.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic touring cycling in Leuven?
Spring and autumn are generally considered the best times for touring cycling in Leuven. The weather is mild, and the natural landscapes are particularly vibrant with blooming flowers or colorful foliage. Summer also offers pleasant conditions, though it can be busier. Winter cycling is possible, especially on well-maintained paths, but some trails might be less accessible.
How can I access these no-traffic bike trails using public transport?
Leuven's excellent public transport network, centered around its train station, provides good access to many starting points for no-traffic routes. Many local buses are equipped to carry bikes or serve areas close to trailheads. The city's commitment to cycling means that getting to and from routes via public transport is generally convenient.
Are there options for more advanced or challenging no-traffic touring routes?
Yes, for more experienced cyclists, routes like the Meerdaal route offer a more challenging experience with greater distances and elevation changes, often through the extensive Brabantse Wouden National Park. These routes provide a rewarding workout while still prioritizing a car-free or low-traffic environment.
Where can I find parking if I drive to a no-traffic bike trail near Leuven?
Leuven has several park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of the city, which are ideal for parking your car before heading out on a bike tour. Additionally, many smaller towns and villages near the starting points of regional routes offer public parking options. Always check local signage for parking regulations and fees.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about the no-traffic routes in Leuven?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Leuven, with an average score of 4.35 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the region's extensive network of dedicated bike paths, the peaceful atmosphere of the forest trails, and the charming blend of natural beauty with historic sites like abbeys and castles, all while enjoying a low-traffic environment.
Are there any specific cycling networks around Leuven known for being car-free?
Leuven is well-integrated into broader cycling networks that prioritize car-free or low-traffic paths. The 'Along the Leuven abbeys' route is a popular themed option that combines cultural exploration with nature on safe cycling paths. The region also features parts of the extensive Brabantse Wouden National Park, offering over 900 km of routes, many of which are dedicated to cycling.
Can I rent bikes in Leuven to explore these no-traffic routes?
Yes, Leuven is a very bike-friendly city with several options for bike rentals. You can easily find rental services in the city center, including options for gravel bikes if you plan to explore routes with varied terrain like those in the Brabantse Wouden. This makes it convenient to access the no-traffic routes even if you don't bring your own bike.
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