The best traffic-free bike rides around Diepenbeek
4.5
(163)
2,288
riders
114
rides
No traffic gravel bike trails around Diepenbeek traverse a diverse landscape characterized by the expansive De Wijers pond area and the natural elements of the Kempen region. Riders encounter varied terrain including heathland, dense forest paths, and unpaved roads. The region features gentle hills and marsh forests, providing a mix of surfaces suitable for gravel biking. This area, including parts of Natuurgebied De Maten, offers a network of routes through ponds, fens, and former iron ore extraction sites.
Best no…
Last updated: August 10, 2026
3.7
(6)
17
riders
40.8km
02:30
220m
220m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
26
riders
62.1km
03:48
180m
180m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(4)
31
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
14
riders
79.7km
04:32
290m
290m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
16
riders
51.6km
03:09
240m
240m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Popular around Diepenbeek
Tips from the Community
Thor Central is a powerfully impressive industrial building that was protected as heritage after the closure of the mines. The search for a meaningful function for the Waterschei mining site and the option to develop the site into a technology park also included the task of giving this beautiful building a new future. Thor Central has evolved into the beating heart of the Thor Park site. Besides the Food Plaza with restaurant Partaasch and brasserie Lampada, the building mainly has a business function, with meeting rooms, an auditorium, a central reception, and even a daycare center. Events and exhibitions are regularly held there.
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Thor Central is a powerful, impressive industrial building that was protected as heritage after the closure of the mines. In the search for a meaningful function for the Waterschei mining site and the option to develop the site into a technology park, the task of giving this beautiful building a new future was also included. Thor Central has evolved into the beating heart of the Thor Park site. Besides the Food Plaza with restaurant Partaasch and brasserie Lampada, the building mainly has a business function, with meeting rooms, an auditorium, a central reception, and even a daycare center. Events and exhibitions are regularly held there.
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Orshof beautiful terrace and resting place for the horses
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Cycling across the heath takes you right through the Hoge Kempen National Park. In this park, vast pine forests alternate with endless heathlands. Thanks to the new connection between cycle nodes 550 and 551, nature is presented to you on a platter. You cycle across the Mechelse Heide, with 700 hectares, one of the largest heathland areas in Flanders. The highlight of this route is undoubtedly the almost 300-meter-long wooden bridge, a recognizable element in the landscape. From the bridge, you have a panoramic view of the natural surroundings.
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Station As is a former railway station on lines 21A (Hasselt-As) and 21B (As-Eisden). The station building now houses a restaurant and the Kolenspoorvereniging (Coal Railway Association) uses it for the operation of the tourist railway line Waterschei-As-Eisden. Station As is also one of the gateways to Hoge Kempen National Park and has an observation tower.
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The cycle path through the water leads cyclists over a 212-meter-long and three-meter-wide concrete path, with water at eye level on both sides. Swans and other waterfowl swim along the banks, curiously watching the cyclists. Since its opening, interest in this unique cycle path has been enormous. On average, 800 visitors per day explore this unforgettable part of the Limburg cycle network, with peaks on Saturdays and Sundays, and on some days even up to 5,000 cyclists.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Diepenbeek?
There are nearly 90 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Diepenbeek, offering a wide range of experiences. You'll find routes suitable for various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Diepenbeek?
The gravel trails around Diepenbeek offer a diverse mix of terrain. You can expect to ride through heathland, dense forest paths, and unpaved roads. The region is known for its varied landscapes, including the unique pond area of De Wijers and the natural elements of the Kempen, ensuring a constantly changing and engaging ride.
Are there any family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Diepenbeek?
Yes, Diepenbeek offers several easy and moderate no-traffic gravel routes that are suitable for families. These trails often pass through scenic natural areas like De Wijers and Natuurgebied De Maten, providing a safe and enjoyable experience away from cars. Look for routes with lower elevation gains and shorter distances for a comfortable family outing.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see along the gravel trails?
Diepenbeek's gravel trails often lead through beautiful natural areas. You might encounter the vast pond landscape of De Wijers, the diverse ecosystems of Natuurgebied De Maten, or the tranquil ponds of De Dauteweyers and Ganzebroek. For specific points of interest, consider exploring highlights like De Teut and Tenhaagdoornheide Nature Reserve or the De Platwijers-Wijvenheide Nature Reserve.
Where can I park my car when starting a gravel bike tour in Diepenbeek?
A convenient starting point for many cycling tours in Diepenbeek is Fietsknooppunt 100 (Cycling Node 100) at the Demerstrand sports complex. It offers free parking and even a service point for bike repairs and e-bike charging, making it an ideal base for your gravel biking adventure.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Diepenbeek?
Diepenbeek is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with blooming heathland in late summer. Even in winter, many trails remain accessible, providing a quiet and serene experience, though conditions can vary. Always check local weather before heading out.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Diepenbeek are designed as circular tours, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the moderate route Panoramic view – De Teut Nature Reserve loop from Hasselt offers a great circular experience through varied landscapes.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Diepenbeek?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Diepenbeek, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders frequently praise the region's extensive network of quiet, car-free paths, the diverse natural beauty, and the feeling of immersion in nature, especially through areas like De Wijers and the National Park Hoge Kempen.
Can I find challenging no-traffic gravel routes in the Diepenbeek area?
Absolutely. While there are many easy and moderate options, Diepenbeek and its surroundings also offer more challenging no-traffic gravel routes. These can feature longer distances, more significant elevation gains, and more technical sections. An example of a more difficult route is Lanaye Lock – Albert Canal Towpath at Kanne loop from Openluchtmuseum Bokrijk, which covers a substantial distance and elevation.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the gravel trails?
While many routes focus on natural immersion, the broader Limburg cycling network is well-equipped with cycling-friendly establishments. You'll often find cafes and pubs in nearby villages or at key cycling nodes. Demerstrand, a common starting point, also offers facilities. Planning your route with komoot can help you identify potential stops along the way.
What is the typical distance and duration for a gravel bike ride in Diepenbeek?
The no-traffic gravel routes around Diepenbeek vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter rides of around 40 km, like From Bilzen to Zutendaal - Gravel biking in the province of Limburg, which takes about 2.5 hours. Longer, more challenging routes can extend up to 90 km or more, requiring 5 hours or longer to complete, depending on your pace and the terrain.
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