The best MTB trails around Merksplas
4.5
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4,392
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Mountain biking around Merksplas offers a diverse landscape, characterized by lush forests, open fields, and historical "Kolonie" areas. The region features a network of well-maintained trails, including gravel paths, forest trails, and singletracks. While generally flat, the terrain provides varied riding experiences through natural beauty and historical sites. This blend makes Merksplas suitable for mountain bikers seeking both scenic and engaging routes.
Best mountain bike trails around Merksplas
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Forest Path in Wortel-Kolonie –…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.6
(7)
248
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
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41
riders
23.8km
01:30
30m
30m
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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26
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary.
14
riders
Hard mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Other adventures around Merksplas
Tips from the Community
The St. Anthony's Chapel is a chapel in the hamlet of Zalfen, located near Salphen, which is part of the Antwerp municipality of Malle. Nearby Oostmalle was hit by a plague epidemic around 1625. Around 60 sick people reportedly fled to the heath. A certain Adriaan Mattheeusen, who lost three children to the disease, had to bury them on the heath and built a chapel for this purpose. This chapel was soon also used for funeral services, and the deceased were buried in a nearby cemetery. The chapel attracted pilgrims and was therefore expanded in 1726. https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sint-Antoniuskapel_(Zalfen)
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This single track has been prohibited for cyclists since July 2025 unfortunately 🚳
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The Saint Anthony Chapel of Salphen is located south of the Salphen road, an old avenue of predominantly ascending summer oaks (Quercus robur) and is surrounded by ascending trees (mainly Scots pine, Pinus sylvestris). It is an oriented brick chapel with a three-sided closed west facade and a lower rectangular choir under slate saddle roofs (ridge parallel to the street) with roof turret. On the east side there are two stepped gables on shoulder pieces with braiding. On the north side there are rectangular windows and a basket-handle arch door and a basket-handle arch door. The plastered and painted interior has a wooden truss with tie beam. The furniture includes an altar from the 19th century and a painted wooden statue of Saint Anthony Abbot (end of the 15th or beginning of the 16th century). The text is provided by: Agency for Immovable Heritage (AOE)
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This stone indicates the border between the municipalities of Hoogstraten, Baarle-Hertog and Merksplas.
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Here lie the roots of Merksplas. Long before the Irish monks came to our country to convert the Old Belgians, there was a Sacred Forest in this region of Merksplas, called the “Looi”. The elevation between the current Melkerijloop and the Mark also formed a natural fortress for the Romans. The name “Burcht” – Motteburcht – dates from that time. In the early Middle Ages (5th to 10th century), the motte castle was still in use by the Lords of Merksplas.
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In the early Middle Ages (5th to 10th century), the motte castle was still in use by the Lords of Merksplas. A motte castle is an earthen mound with a wooden watchtower at the top to spot the enemy (the Normans) as early as possible. The Vikings were then lured into a swamp, the diffuse outflow delta of the Goorloop in the Mark. Pastor-father Van Asten was a man who knew how to tackle things. In 1680 he had major waterworks carried out. In addition to the (now old) fishpond, he also had a pike ditch dug. The level of these water features was regulated with a lock and a tree gutter. This technique is still used today. The rainwater from the public road flows into the ring ditch and the old pond. Via an overflow, the pike ditch is first supplied and then the new fishpond, which in turn discharges the excess water into the Goorloop. Triggered? Want to know more? Click through to https://www.marcblas.be/de-geschiedenis-van-carons-hofke-verteld/5-motteburcht-en-waterwerken
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Merksplas?
Merksplas offers a comprehensive network of over 20 mountain bike trails. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely rides to more challenging experiences through diverse landscapes.
Are there mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families in Merksplas?
Yes, Merksplas has several easy mountain bike routes perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Motte Castle of Merksplas – Merksplas Colony loop from Merksplas is an easy 14.5-mile (23.3 km) path that explores the historical Merksplas Kolonie, offering a blend of natural and cultural scenery without significant technical challenges.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Merksplas?
Mountain biking in Merksplas is enjoyable year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful when fields are adorned with colorful flowers. The varied terrain, including forests and gravel paths, means trails can be ridden in most conditions, though some sections might require more care after heavy rain.
Can I bring my dog on the mountain bike trails in Merksplas?
While Merksplas is generally welcoming to outdoor activities, specific regulations for dogs on mountain bike trails can vary. It's always best to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with wildlife, and to check local signage for any restrictions.
Are there any challenging mountain bike routes for experienced riders?
Yes, Merksplas offers moderate to difficult routes for more experienced mountain bikers. The Forest Path in Wortel-Kolonie – Torendreef loop from Merksplas is a moderate 39.1-mile (62.9 km) trail leading through the scenic Wortel-Kolonie area, providing a longer and more engaging ride. Another option is the Gravel Bike Path – Gravel Track Near the Airport loop from Merksplas, a moderate 66.4 km route.
What kind of landscapes will I encounter on the mountain bike trails?
Merksplas's mountain bike trails traverse a diverse landscape. You'll ride through lush forests like the Graafsbos, open fields, and characteristic Kempen pastures. Many routes also explore the unique historical 'Kolonie' areas, such as Merksplas Kolonie and Wortel Kolonie, which blend natural beauty with monumental buildings and historical intrigue.
Are there any interesting historical sites or natural landmarks along the trails?
Absolutely. Many routes pass through historically significant areas like the Merksplas Kolonie and Wortel Kolonie, which feature beautifully restored buildings and unique historical contexts. You can also discover natural landmarks such as Bootjesven, a beautiful pond area, or the Wortel-Kolonie itself, which is a historical site and natural monument.
Where can I find parking and other facilities for mountain bikers in Merksplas?
Starting points for mountain bike routes, such as the sports hall in Merksplas ('t Hofeind), often provide convenient facilities. These can include parking, access to drinks, and sometimes even options to reserve changing rooms, showers, and bike cleaning services after your ride.
What do other mountain bikers say about the trails in Merksplas?
The mountain bike trails in Merksplas are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the mix of forest paths and open fields, and the unique historical context of the Kolonie areas, making for a scenic and engaging experience.
Are most mountain bike routes in Merksplas circular?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Merksplas are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Dirt Road Through Fields – Alphen Hills loop from Merksplas, which takes you through vast fields, and the Singletrack at the Wortelkolonie – Forest Path in Wortel-Kolonie loop from Merksplas, offering a more technical singletrack experience.
Are there any castles or historical buildings to see near the mountain bike trails?
Yes, the region around Merksplas is rich in history. While riding, you might encounter historical structures within the Kolonie areas. For those interested in castles, nearby attractions include Westmalle Castle and Castle de Renesse, which are accessible from Merksplas.
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