The best gravel rides around Kempen

There are over 170 gravel bike trails around Kempen, offering a wide variety of routes for all skill levels. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging long-distance rides.

Kempen's gravel trails feature a diverse landscape, including extensive pine and deciduous forests, vast heathlands, and areas with drifting sands. You'll ride on quiet dirt roads, forest paths, and semi-paved sections, often alongside meandering waterways like the Niers River and around picturesque spots like the Krickenbecker Lakes.

Yes, Kempen offers several family-friendly options. Many routes are car-free and well-signposted, making them suitable for a relaxed ride with children. Look for routes marked as 'easy' in the guide, such as the Tönisberg Box-Post Mill loop from St. Hubert, which is 26.4 km long.

The region is rich in natural beauty and unique landmarks. You can explore the protected nature of Hoge Kempen National Park, with its heathlands and forests. Along some routes, you might encounter highlights like the Hallenhaus at Halde Norddeutschland or enjoy panoramic views from the Johannesturm Observation Tower. The Niers River and Krickenbecker Lakes also offer scenic views.

Absolutely. For experienced riders seeking a longer challenge, Kempen has routes like the Nierskanal – Forest Path in Kerkener Bruch loop from Hülser Bruch, which is a difficult 80.4 km trail. The broader region also features the 100 km 'Kempen Route', designed to be accessible while covering significant distances.

The Kempen region is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, especially when the heathlands bloom purple. Summer is also popular, but it's advisable to start early to avoid the midday heat. Winter can be ridden, but be prepared for potentially wet or muddy conditions on unpaved sections.

Yes, many of the gravel routes in Kempen are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Confluence of Niers and Nette – Forest Path in Kerkener Bruch loop from Krefeld-Hüls and the Niers Riverside – Branch channel loop from Kempen (Niederrhein), both offering scenic circular tours.

The gravel trails in Kempen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 270 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the peaceful car-free sections, and the well-maintained paths through forests and along rivers.

Yes, many trailheads and starting points for gravel routes in Kempen offer convenient parking. Gateways to Hoge Kempen National Park, such as Terhills, Station As, and Kattevennen, are known to have good facilities, including parking, making them excellent starting points for your ride.

The Kempen region is well-equipped with amenities for cyclists. Many towns and villages along the routes offer cafes and pubs. Specific gateways to the Hoge Kempen National Park provide catering services, and places like Chateau De Litzberg are mentioned as good spots to refuel during a ride through the park.

Generally, no specific permits are required for gravel biking on designated paths in the Kempen region, including within Hoge Kempen National Park. However, always respect local regulations and stay on marked trails to protect the natural environment.

Yes, some starting points for gravel trails in Kempen are accessible by public transport. For example, Station As is one of the gateways to Hoge Kempen National Park and can serve as a convenient access point for trails within the park. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules for specific route access.