Top 20 Bike Parks around Ravels

Ravels and the surrounding Kempen region offer a diverse range of mountain biking experiences. You'll find technical singletracks with sharp hills and turns, such as the Singletrack Along the Leij, which can be challenging with slippery sections. There are also well-maintained trails with nice bends and short climbs, like the MTB singletrack with banked turns – Alphen. For those seeking a mix of flow and technical challenges, the ATB Kempen MTB-parcours at Sportpark Ravels features approximately 5.5 kilometers of off-road single tracks with 'A' and 'B' lines for varying skill levels, plus a small skills park.

Yes, Ravels offers excellent family-friendly mountain bike options. The MTB Route Stadsbos013 is ideal for teaching children due to its flowy sections without significant height differences or difficult passages. Additionally, the Mountainbikeroute Pierelierebinkenpad includes specific child-friendly sections, typically under 20 km, with additional attractions like picnic areas or play forests, making it perfect for an adventurous family outing.

Advanced riders looking for technical challenges should explore the ATB Kempen MTB-parcours at Sportpark Ravels. This course is known for its tightly constructed single tracks and technical passages, offering both 'A' and 'B' lines where the 'B' lines provide extra challenges. It also features a small skills park with drops and rock gardens. The Recreational Park 't Zand also offers challenging sections with hills, muddy trails, and winding parts that require technical skills.

The Mountainbikeroute Pierelierebinkenpad is an extensive network of three interconnected loops: the Pierelus (in Ravels), the Lierelus (in Oud-Turnhout), and the Binkenlus (in Turnhout), totaling 60 km. These routes are designed for both experienced mountain bikers and recreational riders, with clear signposting. Starting points in Ravels include the bridge under the Vaartstraat towpath and Sportpark Ravels (Raaftuinweg).

The ATB Kempen MTB-parcours is notably well-maintained and known for its surprisingly dry surface, even during the Belgian winter, making it accessible year-round. However, for the most comfortable riding conditions and to avoid potential muddy sections on other trails like the Singletrack Along the Leij, spring through autumn generally offers the best weather.

Yes, the Klim & Adventure Forest Goirle is located near Ravels. This facility offers climbing courses up to 10 meters high and exciting activities like a 12-meter free fall. It also features wheelchair-friendly climbing courses and an adventure path with active assignments, making it an experience for every visitor. You can also explore the surrounding estates with GPS or by mountain bike.

For the ATB Kempen MTB-parcours and the Pierelierebinkenpad, you can find access and parking near Sportpark Ravels, specifically at the end of Raaftuinweg or via Onze Lieve Vrouwstraat, just behind the BMX track. Other starting points for the Pierelierebinkenpad include the bridge under the Vaartstraat towpath.

Beyond mountain biking, the Ravels area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous gravel biking routes, enjoy peaceful hiking trails like the 'Little Bridges Trail' or 'Bridges and fens - Regional forests of Ravels', and find dedicated running trails. The region's forests and fens provide a scenic backdrop for all these activities.

When riding the ATB Kempen MTB-parcours, wearing a helmet is required. For trails like the MTB Route Stadsbos013, it's important to note that it's a one-way route. Always be aware of other riders, as some sections, such as the MTB singletrack with banked turns – Alphen, occasionally have riders going against the grain. Be prepared for potentially slippery or muddy conditions, especially along the Leij.

The cycling routes around Ravels often take you through diverse natural landscapes. You'll encounter forests, rivers like the Leij, and fens. Highlights such as the Recreational Park 't Zand feature lakes and nature reserves. The Mountainbikeroute Pierelierebinkenpad, for instance, provides opportunities to cycle amidst nature, offering a refreshing outdoor experience.

Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained trails and the variety of experiences available. Many appreciate the technical challenges and flow offered by spots like the ATB Kempen MTB-parcours. The family-friendly nature of routes such as the MTB Route Stadsbos013 is also a big draw, making it easy to introduce children to mountain biking. The scenic beauty of cycling through forests and along waterways is also a highlight for many.