The best gravel rides around Pont-À-Celles
4.5
(40)
255
riders
58
rides
Gravel biking around Pont-À-Celles offers diverse landscapes across its predominantly rural and green environment. The region features extensive agricultural lands, gently rolling hills, and verdant valleys, providing varied terrain for cyclists. The Charleroi-Brussels Canal also intersects the commune, offering flat, scenic routes often suitable for gravel riding. Additionally, wooded areas and nature reserves contribute to the varied natural beauty available for exploration.
Best gravel bike trails around Pont-À-Celles
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Grasdelle Trail Clearing – Grippensdelle…
Last updated: May 22, 2026
4.5
(4)
12
riders
37.0km
02:22
210m
210m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
56
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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3.0
(1)
7
riders
44.1km
02:58
510m
510m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
6
riders
26.3km
01:48
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
8
riders
46.9km
02:51
280m
280m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This tour goes for kilometers through the forest. In spring it is beautiful with the hyacinths and wood anemones. In summer nice and cool.
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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
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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. In 1892, it was given its own rail connection to Groenendaal station as part of a smooth development. To realize this racecourse, about 100 hectares of forest were cleared at the end of the 19th century. King Leopold II had his own box, 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. A fire and subsequent explosions of ammunition on May 6, 1919, heavily damaged the grandstands and buildings of the hippodrome. 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 only rebuilt in 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 office, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/302991
4
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Open grassy area with some benches, ideal for a break on dry days.
3
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A very nice walk from the woods of the Jamioulx prison, passing through the woods of the prince and the slag heap of the woods of the casiers.
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Very beautiful park and woods
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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!
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available around Pont-À-Celles?
There are over 90 gravel bike trails available in the Pont-À-Celles region, offering a wide variety of routes for different skill levels and preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Pont-À-Celles?
You can expect a diverse mix of terrain, including extensive agricultural lands, gently rolling hills, and verdant valleys. Many routes also feature sections along the Charleroi-Brussels Canal, which are often flat and scenic, as well as paths through wooded areas and nature reserves.
Are there any easy gravel bike routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Pont-À-Celles offers several easy and moderate gravel routes. For a moderate option that passes through open agricultural lands, consider the Wind Turbines near Nivelles – Seigneur Farm loop from Nivelles. There are 6 easy routes in total, perfect for those new to gravel biking or looking for a relaxed ride.
Where can I find longer or more challenging gravel bike trails?
For a more challenging experience, Pont-À-Celles has 44 difficult routes. A notable long and difficult trail is the Grasdelle Trail Clearing – Grippensdelle MTB Singletrack loop from Nivelles, which covers over 80 km and includes singletrack sections. Another challenging option is the Manual Lock at Aulne Abbey – Aulne Abbey Ruins loop from Puissant, which combines historical sites with natural landscapes.
Are there any circular gravel bike routes in the area?
Many of the gravel routes around Pont-À-Celles are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Barge on the River – Benches on RAVeL L141 loop from Luttre, which offers a moderate ride along the canal, and the Singletrack Through the Fields – Singletrack Trail loop from Rèves Gare.
What are some interesting natural sights or landmarks to see along the gravel trails?
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore nature reserves like Étang du Launoy, Biernimont, and Viesville, or cycle through wooded areas such as Bois de l'Hôpital. For unique natural monuments, consider visiting the Passage through the Aulniats spoil tip via the GR or the Piges Spoil Tip.
Are there any castles or historical sites accessible by gravel bike?
Yes, several routes pass near historical points of interest. The Manual Lock at Aulne Abbey – Aulne Abbey Ruins loop from Puissant takes you past the historic Aulne Abbey. You can also find impressive castles nearby, such as Écaussinnes-Lalaing Castle or La Rocq Castle, which can be incorporated into your rides.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Pont-À-Celles?
The gravel trails in Pont-À-Celles are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful rural environment, and the extensive network of paths that cater to different skill levels.
Is Pont-À-Celles a good destination for gravel biking year-round?
Pont-À-Celles offers enjoyable gravel biking for much of the year. The diverse terrain, including agricultural fields and canal paths, can be pleasant in spring, summer, and autumn. During winter, some unpaved sections might become muddy, so it's advisable to check local conditions and choose routes with more stable surfaces, such as the Ravel paths.
Are there any specific areas known for wildlife observation along the routes?
The nature reserves in Pont-À-Celles, such as Étang du Launoy, Biernimont, and Viesville, are excellent spots for observing local wildlife. Additionally, the wooded areas like Bois de l'Hôpital and paths along streams like Pont à Mousson and Les Corbeaux offer opportunities to encounter various species in their natural habitats.
Are there any routes that follow the Charleroi-Brussels Canal?
Yes, the Charleroi-Brussels Canal intersects the commune and provides flat, scenic routes that are ideal for gravel riding. The old canal paths are easily explored by bike, offering a unique perspective on the region's industrial heritage and natural beauty. The Barge on the River – Benches on RAVeL L141 loop from Luttre is one such route that utilizes these canal-side paths.
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