The best gravel rides around Oud-Turnhout

There are over 220 gravel bike routes in the Oud-Turnhout area, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.

The Oud-Turnhout region, part of the Kempen, features diverse terrain perfect for gravel biking. You'll encounter wide gravel roads, quiet forest paths, and sandy stretches winding through heathland and fens. The area also includes wetlands, serene stream valleys, and car-free towpaths along canals, providing a varied and engaging riding experience.

Yes, Oud-Turnhout offers several easy gravel routes suitable for beginners or families. For example, the Kesseven - Gewestbos Ravels – Marneffedreef loop from Oud-Turnhout Werkendam is an easy 18.6-mile (29.9 km) trail that takes you through quiet forest paths.

The gravel biking routes in Oud-Turnhout are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 140 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse natural landscapes, including heathland, forests, and fens, as well as the well-developed cycling infrastructure and tranquil environment.

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, Oud-Turnhout has several extensive gravel routes. The MTB Trail in Vorselaar – Gravel Track Near the Airport loop from Oud-Turnhout is a challenging 59.4-mile (95.6 km) route, while the Torendreef – Merksplas Colony loop from Oud-Turnhout covers 51.6 miles (83.0 km).

Many routes traverse significant natural areas. You can explore Landschap De Liereman, one of Belgium's oldest protected nature reserves, known for its heathland, forests, fens, and dry shifting dunes. Keep an eye out for Konik horses, Shetland ponies, sheep, and Galloways grazing freely. You might also encounter various bird hides, such as the Ronde Put Bird Hide or the Bird-watching hide in Turnhouts Vennengebied Nature Reserve, and even viewing towers like the View from the Kleine Klotteraard viewing tower.

While many outdoor areas in Belgium are dog-friendly, specific rules may apply in nature reserves like Landschap De Liereman. It's generally recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas where wildlife is present. Always check local signage for specific regulations.

Yes, most of the gravel bike routes around Oud-Turnhout are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular PiereLiereBinkenpad and Teljorenlekkersroute Loop and the challenging Merksplas Colony and Turnhout Fens Loop.

Oud-Turnhout is generally well-equipped for outdoor enthusiasts. While specific parking spots for each trail vary, you'll often find general parking available near trailheads or in the town center, which serves as a convenient starting point for many routes. Look for designated parking areas near nature reserves or public spaces.

Oud-Turnhout and the surrounding villages offer a pleasant rural atmosphere with small shops and friendly cafés. You'll find opportunities to stop for refreshments in the town center or in nearby communities, especially after completing a ride. Postel Abbey, a notable point of interest, is also known for its artisanal products, including beer and cheese.

The Kempen region is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with wildflowers in bloom during spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. Summer can be warm but is also suitable, while winter rides are possible, though conditions might be colder and some paths muddier after rain.

For casual gravel biking on public paths and designated routes in Belgium, you generally do not need special permits. However, always respect local regulations, especially when riding through nature reserves or private land, and stick to marked trails.