4.4
(182)
1,499
riders
123
rides
Gravel biking around Rixensart offers diverse terrain within the Walloon Brabant province of Belgium. The region is characterized by rolling hills and lush greenery, providing a scenic backdrop for rides. Key natural features include the expansive Sonian Forest, known for its ancient beech trees and varied subsoil, and the tranquil Lake Genval. This landscape provides a mix of unpaved routes suitable for gravel biking, ranging from gentle paths to more challenging segments with elevation changes.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
14
riders
64.7km
04:08
620m
620m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
6
riders
72.3km
04:33
580m
580m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(6)
15
riders
24.8km
01:30
260m
260m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(8)
21
riders
33.9km
01:56
330m
330m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
6
riders
32.3km
02:05
310m
310m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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
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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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Comfortable shady gravel through the Meerdaalwoud.
4
0
Here in the courtyard you can get something to drink and eat (be careful, it is only open until 6 p.m.), which is a bit of a shame.
1
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In front of the park is a French garden with ponds, flower beds and statues, which extends to a series of ponds that receive their water from the Voer.
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Narrow path next to the Voer. It can get quite busy, with lots of walkers, joggers, and horseback riders.
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Relaxation for young and old
2
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Nice sighting when out riding, there is a gravel track passing through and a bit later you'll meet a pasture with beautiful Highland Cows!
1
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The Rixensart area offers a diverse mix of terrain, characterized by rolling hills, lush greenery, and extensive forest paths. You'll find unpaved routes suitable for gravel biking, ranging from gentle paths to more challenging segments with elevation changes, particularly within the expansive Sonian Forest. The region's unique relief and subsoil, preserved over millennia, contribute to varied riding surfaces.
Yes, Rixensart offers a selection of easier gravel routes. Out of nearly 200 available tours, 19 are classified as easy. These routes often wind through picturesque landscapes, offering views of meadows and tranquil areas. While specific family-friendly routes aren't detailed, the presence of easy trails suggests options for less experienced riders.
Rixensart's gravel routes often pass by significant natural and historical landmarks. You can cycle past the impressive Château de La Hulpe within the extensive grounds of Domaine Solvay. Many routes also traverse the ancient Sonian Forest, known for its centuries-old beech trees, and offer scenic views around Lake Genval. The Ponds of Tervuren Park are another beautiful feature you might encounter.
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails around Rixensart are designed as loops, allowing for convenient circular rides. For example, the View of Terhulpen Castle – Sonian Forest loop from Genval and the Domaine Solvay – Sonian Forest loop from Rixensart are popular circular options that showcase the region's diverse landscapes and attractions.
The region's lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere make it appealing for gravel biking across multiple seasons. While specific recommendations vary, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winter rides are also possible, though conditions in the Sonian Forest and other unpaved areas might be muddier or require more suitable gear.
There are nearly 200 gravel bike trails available around Rixensart. This includes a wide range of difficulties, with 19 easy routes, 106 moderate routes, and 64 difficult routes, ensuring options for various skill levels and preferences.
The gravel biking routes in Rixensart are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 270 reviews. Reviewers often praise the extensive forest paths, rolling hills, and tranquil lake views, highlighting the diverse and scenic experience the region offers.
Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking longer challenges, Rixensart offers several difficult routes. The Ponds in Tervuren Park – Tervuren Park Ponds loop from La Hulpe is a challenging 71.9 km route, while the View of Terhulpen Castle – Sonian Forest loop from Genval covers 55.1 km, both offering significant distances and elevation changes.
Rixensart's strategic location in Walloon Brabant provides good access. While specific public transport links to trailheads are not detailed, the area is generally well-connected, and many routes start from towns like Genval or Rixensart itself, which are accessible by public transport. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for the most convenient starting points.
While specific cafes on the trails are not listed, Rixensart and nearby towns like Genval and La Hulpe offer amenities. Lake Genval, for instance, is described as a serene spot for breaks, suggesting nearby facilities. The region's popularity for outdoor activities means you'll likely find options for refreshments in the villages and towns bordering the Sonian Forest and other cycling areas.
Gravel biking in Rixensart caters to a wide range of abilities. You'll find 19 easy routes, 106 moderate routes, and 64 difficult routes. The difficult routes, such as the Domaine Solvay – Sonian Forest loop from Rixensart, often involve significant elevation changes and longer distances, while moderate and easy options provide more relaxed rides.


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