The best road cycling routes around Hélécine
4.3
(182)
13,155
riders
847
rides
Road cycling around Hélécine offers a blend of open fields, wooded paths, and gentle topography, making it suitable for various levels of road cyclists. The region features accessible natural areas and historical landmarks, including the Provincial Domain of Hélécine and the Grote Gete river. Routes often incorporate small climbs that provide panoramic views across the countryside. This area provides scenic road bike routes near Hélécine, characterized by its varied terrain and historical context.
Best road cycling routes around Hélécine
- The most popular road cycling route is Hélécine Castle – Château du Tronquoy loop from Ezemaal, a 53.8 miles (86.6 km) trail that takes 3 hours 49 minutes to complete. This moderate route connects two notable castles through the surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Château de Hannêche – Hélécine Castle loop from Ezemaal, a moderate 50.2 miles (80.8 km) path. This route offers scenic views of historical châteaux and the gentle hills of the region.
- Local road cyclists also love the Cloth Hall of Zoutleeuw – Railway Line 22 loop from Ezemaal, a 57.8 miles (93.0 km) trail leading through historical towns and along former railway lines, often completed in about 4 hours 24 minutes.
- Road cycling around Hélécine is defined by open fields, gentle hills, and historical sites, with routes often passing by the Provincial Domain of Hélécine. The network offers options for different ability levels, from moderate to more challenging rides.
- The routes in Hélécine are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 170 reviews. More than 13,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Hélécine's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 7, 2026
5.0
(1)
91
riders
86.5km
03:48
500m
500m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.5
(2)
100
riders
80.8km
03:42
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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83
riders
93.9km
04:26
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
58
riders
126km
05:48
1,040m
1,040m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
44
riders
67.4km
03:12
220m
220m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Tips from the Community
On the site of the current St. Leonard's Church stood a chapel—the date of construction of which is unknown—in honor of Saint Leonard of Noblac. After this chapel was elevated to a parish church in 1231, it was replaced by the current church, which had a long construction history: the monumental Gothic building was largely constructed between the 13th and 16th centuries. St. Leonard's Church is rich in art treasures and owes its international fame primarily to them. The Iconoclasm of 1566 and the French Revolution passed the church by without significant damage, thus preserving most of the impressive artistic heritage accumulated over centuries: altarpieces, paintings, statues of saints, copper and silverwork, vestments, and other devout objects. Below, a few of these showpieces are presented. Upon entering, the first thing that catches the eye is the Marianum: this double statue (1533) is situated within the 15th-century veneration of Mary, which depicted the Virgin Mary as the apocalyptic woman and mediatrix of grace. Not-to-be-missed highlight inside: The Sacrament Tower: A tabernacle crafted from white Avesnes stone is undoubtedly the church's showpiece. The artwork was created in the workshops of Cornelis II Floris de Vriendt in Antwerp and erected in Zoutleeuw in 1552. The tower is 18 meters high, has nine stories, and contains approximately 200 statues depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. A replica is on display at London's Victoria and Albert Museum. The Paschal Candlestick This copper candlestick is 5.68 meters high and weighs approximately 950 kg. It was cast by Renier van Thienen, based on a design by Jan Bornam, and installed in the choir by the founder himself in 1483. It is the second-largest Easter candlestick in Europe. Source: https://www.zoutleeuw.be/sint-leonarduskerk
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On the spot where, according to legend, a statue of Our Lady, plowed out by a team of oxen, hung against an oak tree, a late Gothic chapel was built in 1538, which quickly became a place of pilgrimage. The chapel's interior also pleasantly surprises visitors. The rood screen is decorated with a beautiful apostle pew from 1613, probably from the Clerk's Chapel. Pilgrims used to offer a kilo of salt here to prevent children from bedwetting. Even today, the chapel attracts many visitors and, thanks in part to the procession, the May pilgrimage, and the candlelight procession, remains a center of religious life. It is open daily. On Sunday, September 8th, or the following Sunday, there is the annual rosary procession around the chapel to commemorate its dedication. This procession features a modern depiction of the mysteries of the Rosary, which also includes the Seven Sorrows of Our Lady. At the beginning of the procession, a farmer walks with an old plow. This refers to the legend that a farmer in the early sixteenth century allegedly found the statue of the Virgin Mary while plowing. The chapel on Ossenweg is said to have been built later in this neighborhood. The statue of Our Lady of Ossenweg is also carried in the procession. Source: https://www.zoutleeuw.be/kapel-van-de-ossenweg
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7 centuries old, but still beautiful...
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Yes, Leonard knew what he wanted and is indeed a "wow"...
4
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Since 1965, the Oteppe castle and its surrounding estate (65 ha) have been run as a holiday centre ("L'Hirondelle") with a hotel, campsite, holiday chalets and bungalows, swimming pools, playground and fishing ponds; as a result, the village's population has almost doubled during the summer months.
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The Château Rose was built by order of Albert-Pierre Stier (1745-1816). In 1776, he bought the seigniory of Orp, as it had been known since the end of the 17th century, when the land of Orp-le-Grand was merged with that of Orp-le-Petit. The pillory of Orp-le-Petit at the front is one of about fifty in Belgium that are listed by the Royal Institute for Cultural Heritage. When our country was invaded by France in 1794, the French revolutionaries rushed to abolish the symbols of the Ancien Régime and the pillory was demolished. A few years later, around 1826, Baron Jean-François de Vinck de deux Orp (1774-1827), nephew of the builder of the castle, had the restored elements of the pillory rebuilt on his estate, more specifically in the central part of the meadow below the castle. Source: https://www.orp-jauche.be/wp-content/uploads/Brochure_PetitPatrimoinePopulaire_ORP.pdf
7
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the old railway line between Halen and Tienen is now a nice cycle path along many orchards.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when road cycling around Hélécine?
The Hélécine region offers a varied landscape for road cyclists, characterized by a mix of open fields, wooded paths, and gentle hills. You'll find routes with small climbs that provide panoramic views, especially towards areas like Sint-Truiden. The broader Haspengouw countryside, accessible from nearby Landen, also features historical Gallo-Roman burial mounds and mottes, adding scenic and historical richness to your ride.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier ride?
Yes, Hélécine offers routes suitable for various skill levels. While many routes are moderate, you can find options with gentler elevations. For instance, the route Cloth Hall of Zoutleeuw – Bethaniakapel Zoutleeuw loop from Ezemaal is a moderate ride with a lower elevation gain compared to some other routes, making it a good choice for those seeking a less strenuous experience.
Where can I find challenging road cycling routes with significant elevation gain?
For cyclists looking for a more challenging experience, Hélécine offers routes with notable elevation gains. The Haltinne Castle – Hélécine Castle loop from Ezemaal is classified as difficult, featuring over 1,000 meters of elevation gain over its 126-kilometer distance, providing a substantial test for experienced riders.
What historical landmarks or viewpoints can I see along the road cycling routes in Hélécine?
Road cycling routes in Hélécine often pass by significant historical sites and offer scenic viewpoints. You can encounter the magnificent Château d'Hélécine, which serves as a picturesque starting point or destination. Other routes might lead you past the Drie Tumuli of Grimde or the Tumulus of Bortombe, offering glimpses into the region's rich history. The area also features views of fruit orchards, especially beautiful during blossom season.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Hélécine?
Yes, many road cycling routes around Hélécine are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Popular examples include the Hélécine Castle – Château du Tronquoy loop from Ezemaal and the Château de Hannêche – Hélécine Castle loop from Ezemaal, both offering scenic circular journeys through the countryside and past historical châteaux.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Hélécine?
The region around Hélécine is particularly enjoyable for road cycling during spring when the fruit orchards are in blossom, offering beautiful scenery. The gentle hills and open countryside are also pleasant during the milder months of summer and early autumn. While specific conditions vary, these seasons generally provide the most comfortable weather for exploring the area by bike.
Where can I park my car when planning a road cycling trip in Hélécine?
A convenient and central location for parking is at the Hélécine Estate, which surrounds the Château d'Hélécine. This provincial domain often serves as a starting point for many cycling routes and provides ample parking facilities for visitors.
Is Hélécine accessible by public transport for cyclists?
While the region is primarily explored by car or bike, Hélécine is situated in Walloon Brabant, Belgium, and can be accessed via public transport networks. It's advisable to check local bus and train schedules to nearby towns like Ezemaal or Landen, which may offer connections to Hélécine, though direct access to specific trailheads might require further planning.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the road cycling routes?
The area around Hélécine, including the Provincial Domain of Hélécine, offers amenities such as terraces overlooking ponds, which can be ideal for a break. As you cycle through the charming villages and towns, you'll likely find local cafes and pubs to stop for refreshments, especially in the larger settlements or near popular attractions.
What do other road cyclists say about their experience in Hélécine?
The road cycling routes in Hélécine are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.3 stars from over 170 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the blend of open fields and historical sites, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and scenic riding experience.
Are there any long-distance road cycling routes available in the Hélécine area?
Yes, Hélécine is a great starting point for longer road cycling adventures. Routes like the Haltinne Castle – Hélécine Castle loop from Ezemaal extend over 126 kilometers, offering a full day's ride through diverse landscapes and past multiple points of interest, connecting various châteaux.
Can I find routes that incorporate the RAVeL network near Hélécine?
While the region is known for its road cycling, some routes may utilize or connect to parts of the RAVeL network, which are dedicated paths often built on former railway lines or towpaths. For example, the Cloth Hall of Zoutleeuw – Railway Line 22 loop from Ezemaal specifically mentions following former railway lines, indicating the presence of such infrastructure that enhances the cycling experience.
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