The best cycling routes around the Steldt

The Schelde region offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 1,900 routes available on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, including over 1,000 easy, 600 moderate, and 200 difficult options.

The Schelde region is renowned for its 'extremely prizeworthy' cycle paths, especially between Dendermonde and Antwerp. These paths are broad, well-maintained, flat, smooth, and largely free of motorized traffic, making them ideal for touring. They are also well-signposted and integrate seamlessly with the Flemish cycling junction network.

Yes, many routes in the Schelde region are suitable for families due to their flat and well-maintained nature. Routes like the Louisa d'Havé Bridge – Zevergemse Scheldemeersen loop from Gentbrugge, which is an easy 28.1 km path through expansive floodplains, are excellent choices for a relaxed family outing.

The region boasts diverse natural beauty, including the expansive Kalkense Meersen, a 950-hectare floodplain, and the impressive Gentbrugse Meersen marshy landscapes. You'll also encounter authentic Scheldt landscapes with damp meadows, reeds, and woodlands, particularly in areas like the Polders of Kruibeke and the West Flanders Scheldemeersen. The 'Old Scheldt' offers unique wet swamp and marsh forests.

Absolutely. The Schelde region is rich in cultural attractions. You can explore charming towns like Oudenaarde, Ghent, and Antwerp. Along the routes, you'll find numerous castles such as Berlare Castle Park and Wissekerke Castle. The Cycling past castles - Antwerp route is specifically designed to highlight these historic landmarks.

A unique and enjoyable feature of cycling along the Schelde is the opportunity to cross the river using numerous free pedestrian and cyclist ferries. These ferries eliminate the need for long detours and add to the scenic experience.

Yes, cyclists will find plenty of amenities along the routes. There are numerous picnic benches, cafes, and taverns offering hearty meals and local beers. Some locations even provide charging points for e-bikes, ensuring you can refuel both yourself and your bicycle.

Many routes in the Schelde region are designed as loops, offering convenient circular tours. For example, the Kalkense Meersen Loop takes you through a significant floodplain, while the Louisa d'Havé Bridge – Zevergemse Scheldemeersen loop from Gentbrugge is another popular circular option.

The region's well-developed infrastructure means many trailheads are accessible. Major cities like Antwerp, Ghent, and Oudenaarde, which serve as starting points for various routes, are well-connected by public transport. Parking facilities are also generally available near popular cycling hubs.

The Schelde region is enjoyable for touring cycling for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially with the changing colors of the floodplains and forests. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat.

The Schelde region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 3,000 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the scenic river views, and the abundance of charming villages and natural areas to explore.

While much of the Schelde region is flat, some routes venture into areas with more elevation. For a more challenging ride, consider routes like Taaienberg, Vieux Quatermont and Paterberg - Parc naturel du Pays des Collines or the Oude Kwaremont Climb – Kwaremont loop from Berchem, which feature significant climbs.

Yes, the region offers routes specifically designed to showcase its natural reserves. The Kalkense Meersen Loop is a prime example, taking you through the expansive 950-hectare floodplain, known for its diverse flora and fauna.