The best gravel rides around As
4.6
(155)
2,471
riders
117
rides
Gravel biking around As features a landscape characterized by varied terrain, including heathlands, nature reserves, and forested areas. The region offers a network of trails that traverse both open spaces and more secluded paths. Riders can expect routes that incorporate natural features such as the Mechelse Heide and Bergerven Nature Reserve, providing diverse riding experiences. The area's topography includes gentle undulations and some more challenging climbs, suitable for different skill levels.
Best gravel bike trails around As
- The most popular…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.7
(9)
64
riders
36.0km
02:21
150m
150m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(1)
19
riders
97.1km
06:03
520m
520m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.5
(2)
14
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.0
(1)
36
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
10
riders
43.4km
03:09
260m
260m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
Thor Central is a powerfully impressive industrial building that was protected as heritage after the closure of the mines. The search for a meaningful function for the Waterschei mining site and the option to develop the site into a technology park also included the task of giving this beautiful building a new future. Thor Central has evolved into the beating heart of the Thor Park site. Besides the Food Plaza with restaurant Partaasch and brasserie Lampada, the building mainly has a business function, with meeting rooms, an auditorium, a central reception, and even a daycare center. Events and exhibitions are regularly held there.
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Thor Central is a powerful, impressive industrial building that was protected as heritage after the closure of the mines. In the search for a meaningful function for the Waterschei mining site and the option to develop the site into a technology park, the task of giving this beautiful building a new future was also included. Thor Central has evolved into the beating heart of the Thor Park site. Besides the Food Plaza with restaurant Partaasch and brasserie Lampada, the building mainly has a business function, with meeting rooms, an auditorium, a central reception, and even a daycare center. Events and exhibitions are regularly held there.
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Cycling across the heath takes you right through the Hoge Kempen National Park. In this park, vast pine forests alternate with endless heathlands. Thanks to the new connection between cycle nodes 550 and 551, nature is presented to you on a platter. You cycle across the Mechelse Heide, with 700 hectares, one of the largest heathland areas in Flanders. The highlight of this route is undoubtedly the almost 300-meter-long wooden bridge, a recognizable element in the landscape. From the bridge, you have a panoramic view of the natural surroundings.
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Station As is a former railway station on lines 21A (Hasselt-As) and 21B (As-Eisden). The station building now houses a restaurant and the Kolenspoorvereniging (Coal Railway Association) uses it for the operation of the tourist railway line Waterschei-As-Eisden. Station As is also one of the gateways to Hoge Kempen National Park and has an observation tower.
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The cycle path through the water leads cyclists over a 212-meter-long and three-meter-wide concrete path, with water at eye level on both sides. Swans and other waterfowl swim along the banks, curiously watching the cyclists. Since its opening, interest in this unique cycle path has been enormous. On average, 800 visitors per day explore this unforgettable part of the Limburg cycle network, with peaks on Saturdays and Sundays, and on some days even up to 5,000 cyclists.
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1
On the border of the poor Kempen and fertile Haspengouw lies the Munsterbos. Northeast of the village center of Munsterbilzen, 450 hectares of forests, ponds, marshes, and grasslands stretch out. Here and there, even a patch of purple heather peeks through. The area is so special due to its location on the transition from the sandy Kempen Plateau to the Haspengouw clay region.
4
0
In the middle of nature, magnificent landscape.
0
0
A nice Trail for trailrunners ans mountainbikers
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the overall difficulty level of gravel biking trails around As?
The gravel biking trails around As offer a diverse range of difficulties. You'll find options for all skill levels, from challenging routes that traverse heathland and feature notable climbs, to more accessible paths. Out of 113 available tours, 21 are considered easy, 35 moderate, and 57 are difficult, ensuring there's a suitable ride for everyone.
Are there any long-distance gravel biking routes in the As region?
Yes, As offers several long-distance gravel biking routes. For example, the Grubweg Gravel Path (Wolfskop) – Maastricht City Hall loop from Cegeka Arena is a significant 60.8-mile (97.9 km) path that provides an extensive gravel biking experience through varied landscapes.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see on gravel bike trails around As?
Gravel biking around As takes you through a rich tapestry of natural landscapes. You'll encounter expansive heathlands, serene nature reserves like the Mechelse Heide and Bergerven, and peaceful forested areas. The terrain features gentle undulations and some more challenging climbs, offering diverse scenery throughout your ride.
Are there any family-friendly gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in As?
While many routes are rated difficult, there are 21 easy and 35 moderate tours available around As that could be suitable for families or beginners. These routes often traverse less challenging terrain within the heathlands and forests, providing a pleasant introduction to gravel biking in the region. Look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the gravel bike trails in As?
Many gravel trails in As pass by interesting landmarks and natural features. You might encounter the Mechelse Heide, a vast heathland, or the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, an impressive cycling bridge. Other highlights include the Eisden Mine Headframes and Visitor Center, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past, and various viewpoints overlooking lakes and quarries.
Are there any loop gravel bike trails available in As?
Yes, the majority of gravel bike trails around As are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Popular examples include the View of Bergerven – Vossenberg Climb loop from Opglabbeek and the Sparrendal Bicycle Bridge – Lanklaarder Forest Hollow Way loop from Opoeteren, providing convenient circular routes for exploration.
Where can I find a cafe or refreshment stop near the gravel trails in As?
While specific cafes on every trail aren't listed, the Station As is a known spot that includes a cafe, often serving as a convenient starting or ending point for tours in the area. Many routes also pass through or near towns where you can find refreshment options.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in As?
The gravel biking experience in As is highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.6 stars from over 130 reviews. Riders frequently praise the varied terrain, the beauty of the heathlands and nature reserves, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable and diverse cycling adventure.
Are there any routes that feature significant climbs or more challenging terrain?
Absolutely. The region includes routes with more challenging climbs and varied topography. For instance, the View of Bergerven – Vossenberg Climb loop from Opglabbeek features the Vossenberg Climb, offering a more strenuous experience. Many of the 57 difficult routes will provide the challenge you're looking for.
Can I find routes that take me through nature reserves?
Yes, several gravel biking routes in As lead directly through or offer views of significant nature reserves. The Bergerven Nature Reserve – Vossenberg Climb loop from Vlaams Natuurreservaat Oudsberg is a prime example, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area.
What is the typical duration for a gravel bike ride in As?
The duration of gravel bike rides in As varies significantly depending on the route's distance and difficulty. Shorter, easier routes might take around 2-3 hours, while longer, more challenging tours like the Grubweg Gravel Path (Wolfskop) can take upwards of 7 hours to complete, offering options for both quick spins and full-day adventures.
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