The best gravel rides around Borgloon
4.5
(44)
761
riders
31
rides
Gravel biking around Borgloon offers routes through the rolling hills of Haspengouw, characterized by extensive fruit orchards and agricultural landscapes. The region features a network of paths that traverse open fields and connect charming villages, providing varied terrain for gravel cyclists. Elevations are moderate, with routes often including gradual climbs and descents across the Limburg countryside.
Best gravel bike trails around Borgloon
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Haspengouw MTB Tour, a difficult 62.9 miles (101.3 km) trail that takes 7 hours 9 minutes to complete. This route explores the heart of the Haspengouw region, known for its scenic agricultural vistas.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Loop through the Limburg orchards, a difficult 60.8 miles (97.9 km) path. This route winds through the extensive orchards that define the Limburg landscape, offering picturesque views.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Café Coureur – Saint Genevieve Church, Zepperen loop from Zepperen, a 27.3 miles (43.9 km) trail leading through rural areas and past local landmarks, often completed in about 2 hours 35 minutes.
- Gravel biking around Borgloon is defined by rolling hills, vast orchards, and agricultural fields. The network offers options for both moderate and more advanced gravel cyclists.
- The routes in Borgloon are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 40 reviews. More than 700 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Borgloon's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
4.8
(6)
105
riders
101km
07:08
770m
770m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.8
(6)
105
riders
97.9km
06:51
680m
680m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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5.0
(1)
59
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
27
riders
94.2km
05:34
620m
620m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
32.6km
01:49
200m
200m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
On the border of the poor Kempen and fertile Haspengouw lies the Munsterbos. Northeast of the village center of Munsterbilzen, 450 hectares of forests, ponds, marshes, and grasslands stretch out. Here and there, even a patch of purple heather peeks through. The area is so special due to its location on the transition from the sandy Kempen Plateau to the Haspengouw clay region.
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This section, together with the water lock and the outer bailey, belongs to the oldest parts: in the Apostles' House, remains of the late Gothic ordinance from the second half of the 16th century from the building campaign of Land Commander Wijnandt van Brijel have been preserved. The complex is located at the highest point of the domain, on the eastern side of the commandery. Seven avenues converge at the gate, symbolizing the Seven Sorrows and Joys of Mary. To the right of the gatehouse was the now disappeared Apostles' House; it was an L-shaped building of two storeys, with a chapel on the ground floor, and twelve rooms for needy men, hence the name Apostles' House; late Gothic core from the second half of the 16th century, enlarged and adapted in 1716-1726, under Commander Damian Hugo von Schönborn, as indicated by a facade stone. After World War II, the Apostles' House slowly deteriorated but has since been restored.
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The Katteberg is said to owe its name to a quarry in the nearby Leten called 'In de Kat'. This nature reserve on the Demer is very varied with its fish ponds, species-rich meadows, rough areas, an orchard and a slope forest. The walking path that leads via the Leterweg to Alden Biesen follows the route of a vanished tram line. This was built in 1908-1910 to connect the industrial area of Liège with the Limburg coal mines. The tram line had to bridge a height of 25 meters here and crossed the Demer via a double arched bridge in masonry. The tram tracks were removed in 1952. The pond behind the tram bridge was created by the extraction of clay for the Belisia tile factory in the Zeepstraat.
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The Katteberg follows the route of an old tramway. A climb not to be underestimated awaits you here. Historical context: This semi-hardened gravel path follows the route of the former tram line that connected the coal mines of Genk with the industrial area of Liège. The construction of the tram line began in 1908. To overcome the difference in altitude between the station and the hamlet of Leten, an earthen embankment was built over a distance of 700 meters, cutting straight through the Katteberg. A double arch bridge in masonry was built over the Demer river. The steam tram was put into operation in 1910 and caused a huge increase in passenger traffic in the region. The tram was definitively taken out of service in August 1948. The tram tracks were removed in 1952. Now, this is a route where recreational users, hikers, and cyclists can cross paths. Each at their own pace, enjoying together.
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Café Coureur and their Lumberjack rides in both winter and summer are slowly becoming legendary: Lumberjack is one of the first gravel rides ever in Belgium. The rides are great and varied, the staff (Peter, Simon, Virze, and the team) are extremely friendly, and the afterparty with a BBQ and a fire is a must. Not to mention the beautiful café itself with photos and other cycling elements, and the cool Kwaremont beer… Just to be clear, I don't work for Café Coureur, but I am an avid gravel rider and have been riding the Lumberjack for many years.
0
0
In autumn, you feel like you're walking through a tunnel of vegetation. I recommend this passage.
0
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Beautiful Chapel, unfortunately the crypt is closed
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The Gatehouse, together with the moated castle and the outer bailey, belong to the oldest parts: in the Apostles' House, remains of the late Gothic ordinance from the second half of the 16th century from the building campaign of Land Commander Wijnandt van Brijel have been preserved. The buildings are being restored or redesigned by Land Commander Caspar Anton van der Heyden de Belderbusch in 1755. The complex (Gatehouse, Apostles' House, Trumpeter's House) is located at the highest point of the domain, on the eastern side of the commandery. At the gate, seven avenues come together, as a symbol of the Seven Sorrows and Joys of Mary. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many gravel bike trails are available in Borgloon?
Borgloon offers a diverse network of over 45 gravel bike trails. These routes traverse the rolling hills of Haspengouw, providing varied terrain through extensive fruit orchards and agricultural landscapes.
Are there gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Borgloon?
While many routes in Borgloon are rated as moderate to difficult, the region's characteristic moderate elevations mean that even longer routes can be manageable for those with a reasonable fitness level. For a less strenuous experience, consider exploring shorter sections of the agricultural paths or looking for routes specifically marked as easier on komoot.
What options are there for experienced gravel cyclists in Borgloon?
Experienced gravel cyclists will find plenty of challenging options in Borgloon. Routes like the Haspengouw MTB Tour, spanning over 100 km with significant elevation, offer a demanding ride through the heart of the region's scenic agricultural vistas. Another excellent choice is the Loop through the Limburg orchards, which covers nearly 98 km through picturesque landscapes.
Are there any long-distance gravel routes around Borgloon?
Yes, Borgloon is home to several long-distance gravel routes. The Haspengouw MTB Tour is a challenging 101 km route, and the Loop through the Limburg orchards is another substantial option at 98 km. These routes allow for extensive exploration of the Haspengouw region.
What can I see along the gravel bike trails in Borgloon?
The gravel trails often pass by significant historical and natural landmarks. You can encounter impressive structures like the Alden Biesen Commandery or the charming Heks Castle. For natural beauty, keep an eye out for the serene Lake Het Vinne or the unique Floating Chapel of Helshoven.
Are there circular gravel bike routes available in Borgloon?
Many of the gravel routes in Borgloon are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A popular example is the Café Coureur – Saint Genevieve Church, Zepperen loop from Zepperen, which is a 44 km trail leading through rural areas and past local landmarks.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Borgloon?
The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for gravel biking in Borgloon. Spring offers the beautiful sight of blooming fruit orchards, while autumn provides vibrant foliage. The moderate elevations make it enjoyable outside of extreme summer heat or winter cold, though routes are accessible year-round.
Are there any gravel routes with pub stops or amenities along the way?
Many routes in Borgloon pass through or near charming villages, offering opportunities for pub stops or cafes. The region is known for its hospitality, and you'll often find local establishments to refuel. For instance, the Groenstraat cycle path – Café Coureur loop from Kerniel specifically highlights a café in its name, suggesting a convenient stop.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about gravel biking in Borgloon?
The gravel biking experience in Borgloon is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Riders frequently praise the region's picturesque fruit orchards, the varied terrain of rolling hills, and the well-maintained network of paths that connect charming villages.
Are there family-friendly gravel biking options in Borgloon?
While many routes are rated moderate to difficult, the extensive network of agricultural paths and quiet country roads provides opportunities for families. Look for shorter, flatter sections or routes specifically designed for leisure cycling, which can often be adapted for gravel bikes. The moderate elevations generally make for a less strenuous ride.
Are there any routes that feature viewpoints or scenic overlooks?
Yes, the rolling hills of Haspengouw naturally offer numerous scenic vistas. Many routes provide expansive views over the fruit orchards and agricultural fields. You might also encounter specific viewpoints like the Observation tower Nature reserve De Herkwinning, which offers panoramic views of the landscape.
How accessible are the gravel trails by public transport in Borgloon?
Borgloon and its surrounding villages are generally well-connected by local bus services, which can provide access to various starting points for gravel trails. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and bike carriage policies in advance for specific routes.
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