The best cycling routes around Hoogstraten
4.5
(275)
2,813
riders
183
rides
Touring cycling routes around Hoogstraten traverse a diverse landscape of forests, fields, and meandering rivers. The region is characterized by its green setting, with the Mark River and its tributary, Het Merkske, providing prominent natural features. Extensive forested areas and heathlands offer varied terrain, with elevation gains generally remaining low, making it suitable for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Hoogstraten
- The most popular touring cycling route is Laermolen Watermill – Dodendraad World War I Memorial loop from Hoogstraten…
Last updated: August 1, 2026
4.6
(42)
221
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(26)
157
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(20)
164
riders
51.1km
03:05
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
166
riders
46.3km
03:21
60m
60m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(14)
91
riders
53.3km
03:07
70m
70m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Exciting: which country am I in right now?
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Beautiful cycle path in a quiet area, along the meandering Mark.
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A silent witness to the history of the Wortel Colony. This former prison recalls the strictly regulated living and working conditions of the colony, where the poor and vagrants were housed and forced into labor. Stroll past this historic building and experience the special atmosphere of a place that once shaped the daily lives of many.
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Wortel-Kolonie Vagrants' Cemetery This historic cemetery, nestled in the woods of Wortel-Kolonie, commemorates the vagrants who stayed here between 1890 and 1940. Approximately 170 graves are numbered, some with names, and tell the story of the former charitable colony. A quiet, impressive place steeped in history and remembrance.
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As a walker you have to watch out for cars that sometimes pass by at too high a speed.
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The town hall is an example of civil, late Gothic architecture in brick and sandstone. When the withdrawing German troops dynamited St. Catherine's Tower on October 23, 1944, the town hall was also almost completely destroyed. After the war, this monument was meticulously rebuilt. In 1525, a meeting between Count Antoon de Lalaing and the residents of the Freedom of Hoogstraten decided to build a town hall. The count decided to finance the new town hall himself, as the city's citizens were already helping to bear the heavy burden of building a new choir. The late Gothic town hall was built between 1530 and 1534 to a design by Rombout II Keldermans. He was a master architect from Mechelen and a member of one of the most important master architect families of the Brabant Gothic period. Rombout II Keldermans, like his father, was Mechelen's city architect. Moreover, he rose to become master architect to the Dukes of Brabant and was even appointed personal architect to Emperor Charles V, who ennobled him in 1516. The master builder from Mechelen worked in Hoogstraten until his death in 1531. Afterward, work on the town hall continued under the direction of Hendrik Lambrechts and Antoon II Keldermans. The original town hall housed a concierge's lodge, a butcher's office, a secretariat, a council chamber, an archive storage room, and a two-part militia hall for the guilds. Today, the VisitHoogstraten office is located in the town hall. Source: www.visithoogstraten.be
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The Laermolen is an undershot watermill located on the Mark River on Molenstraat between Hoogstraten and Minderhout. The first mention of the mill dates back to 1405, but it is likely older. It was formerly a double mill: a corn mill, later a bark mill on the left bank, and an oil mill on the right bank. The oil mill was shut down in 1860, and the rest of the mill in 1913, because the owners had sold the dam rights. After 1918, the bark mill was demolished, leaving only the remains of the oil mill and the lock floor. Since 1995, the non-profit organization De Laermolen has campaigned for its restoration. In 2004, the oil mill was put back into operation. The municipality of Hoogstraten purchased the mill in 2005 and granted it a leasehold to the non-profit organization. The mill is now functioning again and is open to the public on the second and fourth Sundays of the month. Every year, "smoutebollen" (Dutch doughnuts) are served, fried in oil produced by the mill.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are there in Hoogstraten?
Hoogstraten offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 170 options available. These routes cater to various preferences, from leisurely rides to more challenging courses.
What is the terrain like for touring cycling in Hoogstraten?
The terrain in Hoogstraten is characterized by a diverse landscape of forests, fields, and meandering rivers like the Mark River. While varied, the routes generally feature low elevation gains, making them suitable for touring cyclists. Many paths are paved, ensuring a smooth cycling experience.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten?
Hoogstraten provides routes for all skill levels. There are 94 easy routes, 79 moderate routes, and 4 more challenging options, ensuring that both beginners and experienced cyclists can find a suitable tour.
Are there circular touring bike routes in Hoogstraten?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Laermolen Watermill – Dodendraad World War I Memorial loop from Hoogstraten and the Hoogstraten Town Hall – Wortel Prison loop from Hoogstraten.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Cycling routes often wind along the banks of the Mark River and Het Merkske, offering scenic views. You can also explore extensive forested areas and heathlands. Notable natural highlights include Oude Buisse Heide and Bootjesven. The region is also home to nature reserves like Den Rooy & Smisselbergen.
Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions accessible by bike?
Absolutely. The historic Laermolen watermill, dating back to 1405, is a prominent feature along the Mark River. You can also cycle to Wortel-Kolonie, a former vagabond colony with cultural and historical insights. The Laermolen Watermill – Dodendraad World War I Memorial loop from Hoogstraten specifically includes historical points of interest.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Hoogstraten?
The touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse countryside, the peaceful river valleys, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten?
Yes, Hoogstraten offers many routes suitable for families, particularly the easy-graded tours. The low elevation gains and diverse, picturesque scenery make for pleasant rides with children. The Korte Beentjespad in the Den Rooy nature reserve is also known to be family-friendly for walking, and many cycling paths run alongside such areas.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten?
Generally, dogs are welcome on public cycling paths in Hoogstraten, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. Always check local signage for specific restrictions in nature reserves or protected areas.
Are there options for beginners or easy touring cycling routes?
Yes, Hoogstraten is an excellent destination for beginners, with 94 easy-graded routes available. These routes typically feature flat terrain and well-maintained paths, allowing for a relaxed introduction to touring cycling. The region's low elevation gains are ideal for those new to the sport.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten?
Parking is generally available in and around Hoogstraten's town center and near popular starting points for cycling routes. Specific parking information for individual routes can often be found on their respective komoot tour pages or local tourist information websites like visithoogstraten.be.
Is public transport accessible near touring cycling routes in Hoogstraten?
Hoogstraten is served by public transport, primarily buses, which can connect you to nearby towns and cities. While specific routes might not have direct public transport access at every starting point, you can often reach the general area by bus and then cycle to your desired route. For detailed information, consult local public transport schedules.
Are there any unique cycling experiences in the Hoogstraten area?
Beyond the traditional routes, the nearby 'Cycling through the Trees' experience in Bosland offers a unique perspective, allowing cyclists to ride up to ten meters high among the treetops. While not directly in Hoogstraten, it's an accessible and memorable addition to a cycling trip in the region.
Most popular routes around Hoogstraten
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