4.3
(70)
949
riders
64
rides
Gravel biking in Gestel En Omgeving features a diverse landscape characterized by the meandering Grote Nete river and its surrounding valley. The terrain includes a mix of dikes, wooded paths, and expansive agricultural fields, providing varied surfaces for gravel routes. Quiet country roads and scenic riverbanks contribute to the experience within the Kempen region. The area also incorporates historical castle domains and small woodlands on higher ground.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.0
(1)
61
riders
89.0km
05:07
120m
120m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(5)
17
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(3)
15
riders
32.6km
01:43
40m
40m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
riders
79.3km
04:36
160m
160m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
15
riders
92.6km
04:57
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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beautiful view of the anti-tank ditch, built to stop tanks in WWII
1
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Where cyclists and hikers cross paths...
4
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pleasant picnic area with brand new oak benches, both under cover and outdoors.
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Fort Kessel is a concrete armored fort built shortly before the First World War. Along with 29 other fortifications, it forms the outer fortification belt of the Antwerp fortress. The fort was built between 1909 and 1914 and modified during the interwar period (1934 and 1939). Until 1940, it played a role in the Belgian army's military defense strategy, first as an artillery stronghold and later as an infantry support point. The fort was demilitarized in 1947. Today, it is an important wintering site for bats. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage) And there is much more to do in and around the fort. Information can be found at https://fortvankessel.be
15
0
good gravelride, a few km's, double-track, in the mid of woods and fields, away from habitation, skimming along an old NATO-airfield (never used, cause sand from nearby dunes could be blow up the runways an damage motors, which is a no-go for a military airfield). To gravelride can be extended by several km's to almost the village of Oostmalle by taking the Salphensebaan once arriving in the smal hamlet of Salphen.
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It's always worth taking a closer look...
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There are over 75 gravel bike trails in Gestel En Omgeving, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars.
The terrain in Gestel En Omgeving is diverse, characterized by the meandering Grote Nete river valley. You'll find a mix of dikes offering panoramic views, wooded paths, expansive agricultural fields, and quiet country roads. The landscape also features historical castle domains and occasional small woodlands, providing varied surfaces ideal for gravel biking.
Yes, Gestel En Omgeving offers gravel bike routes suitable for various skill levels. You can find easy loops, moderate challenges, and more difficult, longer-distance routes. For example, the Bridge over the Grote Nete β Path along the Grote Nete loop from Berlaar is an easy route, while the Path Along the Netekanaal β Borrekens Castle loop from Nijlen is considered difficult.
Many gravel routes in Gestel En Omgeving pass by interesting landmarks. You might encounter the historic Hof van Rameyen, a moated castle, or the charming Chapel of Our Lady Comforter of the Afflicted nearby. The Bridge over the Grote Nete is also a notable feature. The region is also home to the Gestel Village Center, which retains much of its historical charm.
Absolutely. Many routes follow the dikes along the Grote Nete River, offering elevated positions with beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and river valley. The Kruiskensberg, a protected landscape with a chapel situated on a sand dune, also provides unique perspectives and a mosaic of forest and open spaces.
Yes, there are easy gravel bike trails suitable for families. Routes that follow the Grote Nete river, like the Bridge over the Grote Nete β Path along the Grote Nete loop from Berlaar, are generally less challenging and offer a pleasant experience for all ages. The region's quiet areas and varied landscapes make it enjoyable for family outings.
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Gestel En Omgeving are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Fort Oelegem β Forest Paths loop from Kessel is a popular circular route that takes you through varied forest paths.
The region is beautiful throughout the year, but spring and autumn often offer the most pleasant conditions for gravel biking with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. September is particularly special as the heathland on Kruiskensberg blooms purple. Even in winter, the quiet country roads and dikes can provide a serene experience, though conditions may vary.
Yes, you can find idyllic spots to pause. For example, 't Schipke aan de Nete is a charming location right along the river, offering a terrace where you can enjoy views of the water and valley. The 't Schipke on the Nete β Gravel Path Merodebos loop from Berlaar route passes by this spot.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.9 stars from over 60 reviews. Reviewers often praise the tranquil environment, the varied terrain including river dikes and wooded sections, and the blend of natural beauty with historical charm. The serene Grote Nete valley and the quiet country roads are frequently highlighted as key attractions.
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, there are longer and more demanding routes. The Forest Paths β Borrekens Castle loop from Nijlen is a difficult route covering over 90 km, exploring extensive forest paths and passing by historical sites.


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