The best traffic-free bike rides in Brussels

Brussels offers a significant number of no-traffic gravel bike trails, with over 60 routes available. These trails range from moderate to difficult, providing diverse options for gravel biking enthusiasts looking to explore the region's green spaces away from cars.

The no-traffic gravel routes around Brussels are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful immersion in nature, particularly the ancient woodlands of the Sonian Forest, and the variety of landscapes encountered on routes like the Promenade Verte.

While many routes offer varied terrain, the extensive network of paths within areas like the Sonian Forest provides sections suitable for families. Look for flatter, less technical paths within the larger forest areas or consider parts of the Promenade Verte, which encircles the city through parks and green spaces.

Many no-traffic gravel trails in Brussels pass through stunning natural and historical sites. You can expect to encounter ancient beech forests, picturesque ponds like the Boitsfort Ponds, and historical structures such as the Red Cloister Abbey. Routes often traverse vast parks like Tervuren Park and the Bois de la Cambre, offering a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Brussels are designed as loops, allowing for convenient starting and ending points. For instance, the Sonian Forest and Château de La Hulpe Loop is a popular circular option, as is the Groene Gordel and Kravaalbos Loop, offering diverse landscapes.

The terrain varies from well-maintained gravel paths in the Sonian Forest to mixed surfaces, including some rolling hills and agricultural tracks, in the wider Groene Gordel area. While some routes are moderate, many are considered difficult due to their length and elevation changes, such as the Grasdelle Trail Clearing – Rouge-Cloître Lake loop.

Brussels has good public transport links that can get you close to many green spaces and trailheads. Areas like the Sonian Forest and Tervuren Park are often accessible via tram or bus from the city center, allowing you to start your no-traffic gravel adventure without needing a car.

Many of the larger parks and forest areas, such as the Sonian Forest and Tervuren Park, have designated parking areas at their main entrances or trailheads. For routes that start further out, like the Groene Gordel and Kravaalbos Loop, you'll often find parking available in nearby villages or at specific access points.

Spring and autumn are generally ideal for gravel biking in Brussels, offering pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring brings blooming flora, especially the famous bluebells of Hallerbos, while autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage. Summer can also be enjoyable, particularly in the shaded forest areas, but be mindful of potential heat. Winter rides are possible, but conditions can be muddy or icy on some unpaved sections.

Beyond the well-known Sonian Forest, consider exploring the diverse landscapes of the Groene Gordel, which offers a mix of woodlands, agricultural land, and rolling hills. The full 60-kilometer Promenade Verte also reveals many hidden parks, allotments, and orchards that provide a unique perspective on Brussels' natural beauty away from traffic.

While many routes are primarily through natural areas, some popular spots like the Sonian Forest and Tervuren Park have cafes or restaurants at their entrances or within short detours. For longer rides, especially those venturing into the Groene Gordel, you'll often pass through charming villages where you can find local establishments for refreshments.