The best road cycling routes in Kolonie Merksplas
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16,226
riders
485
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Road cycling routes in Kolonie Merksplas traverse a landscape characterized by historical avenues, open fields, fens, and grasslands. The region integrates into a broader cycling network, offering extensive routes through its diverse ecosystems. It features a significant 500-hectare nature reserve and is part of a larger 2000-hectare natural area, including the Valley of the Merkske. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various road cycling experiences.
Best road cycling routes in Kolonie Merksplas
- The…
Last updated: July 10, 2026
32
riders
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.0
(1)
32
riders
46.6km
02:04
60m
60m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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3.0
(1)
17
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
8
riders
22.9km
01:06
30m
30m
Moderate road ride. Great for any fitness level. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
2
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
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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Freestanding neo-Gothic church with a partially integrated west tower, designed by P.J. Taeymans, dating from 1872–1874, surrounding square. Source: Heritage Inventory
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Mariapark is located in the Antwerp town of Vosselaar, on Parklaan. This small park is situated on a spur of Konijnenberg, where a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary is said to have been discovered. It is now kept in the Church of Our Lady.
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Nice view of the Turnhout skyline, interesting buildings :)
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Dreef in the beautiful domain around Landhuis Het Hof, more on https://www.komoot.com/nl-nl/highlight/4091193
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This is the oldest chapel in Vosselaar, built in 1890 and renovated in 1925. The current building covers the original chapel. According to legend, the miraculous statue was found here around 1220. The green Mariapark (1935) invites you to a short visit. Architect: Taeymans Contractor: Jan De Backker Carpentry: Fik Potters The altar was built in 1927 and the mural by Remi Lens in 1943. Source: https://www.vosselaar.be/kapelletjes
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The Mariapark is an oasis of peace in the middle of the city centre. In the park (approx. 1 ha) you will find no less than 32 religious monuments: a Marian chapel, two solitary statues, the 14 Stations of the Cross by artist Simon Goossens and the 15 rosary chapels. In the Mariapark is one of the 15 chapels that are spread throughout the municipality. These are the silent witnesses of the veneration of Mary in Vosselaar. This oldest chapel was built in 1925 to house the stone statue of Our Lady, which had been in the open air since 1890. The statue is a copy of the miraculous statue in the Church of Our Lady. The frescoes in the chapel are by priest Remi Lens. He was assistant pastor in Vosselaar from 1938 to 1959. Remi Lens became known here mainly for his nativity play, but he was also a versatile artist. Thanks to the Way of the Cross, Mariapark is also called the “prayer garden of Vosselaar”. Source: https://www.vosselaar.be/mariapark
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the general terrain like for road cycling in Kolonie Merksplas?
The terrain in Kolonie Merksplas is generally flat, characterized by historical avenues, open fields, fens, and grasslands, with minimal elevation changes. This makes it suitable for a wide range of road cycling experiences.
How many road cycling routes are available in Kolonie Merksplas?
There are over 450 road cycling routes available in Kolonie Merksplas, catering to various preferences and skill levels. These routes integrate into a broader regional cycling network.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, Kolonie Merksplas offers routes for various skill levels. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and more challenging options. For instance, routes like Country House Het Hof – Colony - Eastern Rampart loop from Merksplas are moderate, while longer routes such as Cycling through the Trees – Kerkhoven Canal loop from Rijkevorsel offer a more difficult challenge.
What natural features can I expect to see while cycling in Kolonie Merksplas?
Kolonie Merksplas boasts a diverse landscape including historical avenues, open fields, fens, and grasslands. You can explore a significant 500-hectare nature reserve, and the area is part of a larger 2000-hectare natural area that includes the Valley of the Merkske. The Blakheide nature reserve is a notable highlight, known for its heathland and birdwatching opportunities near a large clay pit.
Are there historical landmarks or cultural sites along the road cycling routes?
Absolutely. Kolonie Merksplas is a UNESCO cultural heritage site. You can cycle past historical attractions like the Landlopers Chapel Merksplas-Kolonie, the Grote Hoeve, and the Colony - Eastern Rampart. The area's past as a 19th-century penal and re-education colony is evident throughout.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Kolonie Merksplas?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, the blend of natural beauty and historical sites, and the extensive network of routes that allow for diverse cycling experiences.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or food along the routes?
Yes, you'll find options for refreshments. The Grote Hoeve, a historical site with monastic architecture, now houses Brasserie Colonie 7, offering a convenient place to stop for food and drinks during your ride.
Are there many circular road cycling routes in Kolonie Merksplas?
Many of the road cycling routes in Kolonie Merksplas are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include De Gieterij – Colony - Eastern Rampart loop from Merksplas and Nieuwe Kaai – Dessel-Turnhout-Schoten Canal loop from Merksplas, allowing you to start and end at the same point.
What are some longer road cycling routes available in the region?
For those seeking longer rides, Kolonie Merksplas offers routes that extend further into the surrounding areas. A notable option is the Cycling through the Trees – Kerkhoven Canal loop from Rijkevorsel, which is approximately 75.9 miles (122.2 km) long and takes you through forested areas and along canals.
Can I find routes that combine natural scenery with historical elements?
Kolonie Merksplas is ideal for combining nature and history. Routes often traverse the 500-hectare nature reserve, offering views of fens and grasslands, while also passing by UNESCO cultural heritage sites like the Colony - Eastern Rampart and the Landlopers Chapel Merksplas-Kolonie.
Are there any routes that follow canals or waterways?
Yes, several routes incorporate canal-side paths, offering a different scenic experience. The Nieuwe Kaai – Dessel-Turnhout-Schoten Canal loop from Merksplas is a prime example, providing cycling along the Dessel-Turnhout-Schoten Canal.
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