The best MTB trails in Kolonie Merksplas
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6,862
riders
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Mountain bike trails in Kolonie Merksplas traverse a diverse landscape shaped by its historical past as a penal colony. The region features characteristic tree-lined avenues, open fields, expansive grasslands, and both coniferous and deciduous forests. Riders will encounter varied terrain, including the restored heathland of "De Blakheide" nature reserve and tranquil plains. The area's unique blend of natural and historical elements provides a distinct backdrop for mountain biking.
Best mountain bike trails in Kolonie Merksplas
- The most popular mountain bike…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
6
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
9
riders
55.7km
03:18
80m
80m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
4.6
(7)
248
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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Other adventures in Kolonie Merksplas
Tips from the Community
Beautiful path between the fields.
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Cozy cafe. You can order bacon with eggs there. There is still an active crossbow club. You can see the handmade crossbows hanging on the wall.
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Café Schuttershof is a fixture in Zondereigen! This is where the social life of the tranquil Kempen region converges. Enjoy a delicious coffee or a refreshing pint and socialize!
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Larger covered rest area at the intersection of Poppelseweg and several hiking and cycling paths.
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This single track has been prohibited for cyclists since July 2025 unfortunately 🚳
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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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This stone indicates the border between the municipalities of Hoogstraten, Baarle-Hertog and Merksplas.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Kolonie Merksplas?
Kolonie Merksplas offers a wide selection of mountain bike trails, with over 300 routes available. These range in difficulty from easy to difficult, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What is the typical difficulty level of mountain bike trails in Kolonie Merksplas?
The mountain bike trails in Kolonie Merksplas cater to a range of abilities. While there are 64 easy routes and 60 difficult ones, the majority (176) are rated as moderate. This means most riders will find a suitable challenge, often combining scenic views with engaging terrain.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in Kolonie Merksplas?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Kolonie Merksplas are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Gravel Bike Path – Forest Paths loop from Kolonie Merksplas is a popular circular option, as is the Gravel Track Near the Airport – MTB Trail in Vorselaar loop from Merksplas.
Where can I park when mountain biking in Kolonie Merksplas?
Convenient parking is available at several starting points for the mountain bike routes. You can find parking at the Merksplas sports hall ('t Hofeind') and the Casino of Wortel. These locations also often provide additional facilities.
What kind of landscapes will I encounter on the mountain bike trails?
The trails in Kolonie Merksplas traverse a diverse landscape. You'll ride through characteristic tree-lined avenues ('dreven'), open fields, expansive grasslands, serene fens, and both coniferous and deciduous forests. Notable natural features include the restored heathland of De Blakheide nature reserve and the visible Het Biesven.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions to see along the routes?
Yes, Kolonie Merksplas is rich in history as a former penal colony and a UNESCO cultural heritage site. You can encounter landmarks such as the monumental Landlopers Chapel, the monastic-style Great Farm (Grote Hoeve) which houses a visitor center, and sections of the nearly 7 km long Eastern Rampart (Ring Moat).
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about Kolonie Merksplas?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 280 reviews. Riders often praise the unique blend of natural beauty and historical elements, the varied terrain, and the well-maintained trails that offer a sense of stepping back in time.
Are there facilities like cafes or bike cleaning stations near the trails?
Yes, starting points like the Merksplas sports hall ('t Hofeind') and the Casino of Wortel offer parking and refreshment options. Some locations also provide facilities for changing, showering, and cleaning bikes, which is particularly useful after a muddy ride.
What is the best time of year to go mountain biking in Kolonie Merksplas?
Kolonie Merksplas offers enjoyable mountain biking throughout much of the year. The diverse landscapes, including forests and open fields, provide different experiences across seasons. However, spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Be prepared for potentially muddy conditions after rain, especially on off-road sections.
Can I combine different routes for a longer ride?
Absolutely. The main 'Kolonieroute' is divided into a Red route (approx. 28.7 km) and a Green route (approx. 21.6 km). These two loops can be combined to create a longer ride of approximately 50 kilometers, with a significant portion (around 72%) being off-road.
Are there any routes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Kolonie Merksplas offers routes suitable for both beginner and experienced mountain bikers. The varied terrain and options for combining shorter loops mean that families or those new to mountain biking can find enjoyable and less challenging paths. The Green route of the Kolonieroute, for instance, offers a mix of authentic avenues and tranquil plains that can be suitable for a more relaxed ride.
Where can I find more information about the Kolonieroute?
For additional details about the Kolonieroute, including maps and specific points of interest, you can visit the official tourism website: visithoogstraten.be.
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