The best traffic-free bike rides in Kolonie Merksplas
4.5
(140)
3,852
riders
169
rides
Gravel biking in Kolonie Merksplas offers diverse landscapes, including fens, heathland, forests, and meadows. The region features a network of dirt roads and paths, providing varied terrain for cyclists. The Visbeek Valley contributes to the natural environment, characterized by its small-scale landscape. Elevation changes are generally modest, with hills under 200 meters.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails in Kolonie Merksplas
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Westmalle Trappist Abbey – Forest Paths loop from Merksplas, a 51.4 miles (82.7 km) trail that takes about 5 hours 44 minutes to complete. This route features forest paths and leads towards the historic Westmalle Trappist Abbey.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Kesseven - Gewestbos Ravels – Smooth cycle path along the canal loop from Kolonie Merksplas, a moderate 50.9 miles (81.9 km) path. This route offers smooth cycle paths along canals and passes through the Gewestbos Ravels.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Turnhout Marina – Smooth cycle path along the canal loop from Kolonie Merksplas, a 35.1 miles (56.5 km) trail leading through canal-side landscapes, often completed in about 3 hours 14 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Kolonie Merksplas is defined by fens, forests, and smooth canal paths. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Kolonie Merksplas are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 100 reviews. More than 3000 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Kolonie Merksplas's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.5
(2)
113
riders
81.6km
04:37
130m
130m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
96
riders
93.1km
05:24
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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37
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
26
riders
41.7km
02:22
60m
60m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(5)
64
riders
84.8km
04:56
160m
160m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Other adventures in Kolonie Merksplas
Tips from the Community
Beautiful avenue with a cycle and walking path; the avenue leads towards the abbey.
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Path through the forest towards the abbey and brewery of Westmalle.
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Beautiful walking and cycling path through an avenue.
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pleasant picnic area with brand new oak benches, both under cover and outdoors.
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Larger covered rest area at the intersection of Poppelseweg and several hiking and cycling paths.
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It's always worth taking a closer look...
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Generations of castle lords and the village community have cared for the magnificent heritage we have today. We must cherish this legacy with care. Everyone has a responsibility in this regard: the government, the owners, and certainly also the visitors. We all want to safeguard this for future generations. VORSELAAR: Proposal to protect the castle "de Borrekens", the rectory, the immediate surroundings of the castle, and the linden avenue as a village landmark. The castle was built in the thirteenth century as a military fortification for the Duke of Brabant, granted as a fief to the Lord Van Rotselaer. The latter gave the fortification, which had the character of a moated castle, the ground plan that can still largely be seen today. Little is known about its evolution since the thirteenth century. The castle is depicted in a print by Ertinger in the second half of the seventeenth century and published by Jacques Le Roy. This shows that the current castle's core still largely reflects this condition. The building's military character was lost in the eighteenth century, and it was converted into a "house of pleasure." This involved the demolition of several surrounding walls and defensive towers, and the moat separating the forecourt from the castle was filled in. Simultaneously or shortly before, several embellishments were carried out on the castle, with J.P. van Baurscheit as the architect. The buildings in the forecourt were constructed during the same period. In the 1850s and 1860s, restoration work was carried out in keeping with the fashion of the time. Several dormers, stepped gables, fireplaces, turrets, and battlements were added in the Neo-Gothic style. The interior was also altered during this period and in the same style. Although this renovation significantly altered the castle's appearance, the renovation itself is remarkable as a testament to the Neo-Gothic style that emerged in our region around 1850.
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Protected cycle path (gravel). Essentially a straight line from Oelegem to Sint Job in 't Goor (connecting with the Schoten Canal). Despite its straightness, it's not endless and offers plenty of variety.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available in Kolonie Merksplas?
Kolonie Merksplas offers a wide selection of no-traffic gravel bike trails. You'll find over 150 routes, with a good mix of easy, moderate, and challenging options to explore.
What is the typical terrain like on the no-traffic gravel bike trails in Kolonie Merksplas?
The terrain is quite varied, offering an engaging experience for gravel bikers. You can expect a mix of gravel paths, natural surfaces, and dirt roads winding through fields and forests. The region is characterized by fens, heathland, and meadows, providing diverse and scenic backdrops for your ride.
Are there any easy, beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Kolonie Merksplas?
Yes, there are several easy routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For example, the Turnhout Marina – Smooth cycle path along the canal loop from Kolonie Merksplas offers a moderate but generally smooth experience, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without significant technical challenges.
What natural features can I expect to see along the no-traffic gravel routes?
Kolonie Merksplas is rich in natural beauty. You'll encounter diverse landscapes including fens, heathland, and extensive forests. The Visbeek Valley is a notable nature reserve in the Antwerp Kempen region, known for its intact landscape. Many paths are lined with wild roses, and you might pass by several tranquil lakes such as Grote Kolonieplas or Bootsven.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to discover while gravel biking?
Absolutely. The Kolonie Merksplas area is steeped in history. You can explore the Colony - Eastern Rampart, a significant historical site, or the Landlopers Chapel Merksplas-Kolonie. The region also features the historic Grote Hoeve. Further afield, routes can lead towards the famous Westmalle Trappist Abbey.
What is the best season for gravel biking in Kolonie Merksplas?
Kolonie Merksplas offers enjoyable gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also great, especially when riding through shaded forest paths. Winter rides are possible, but some natural surfaces might be muddier or require more robust tires.
Are there any challenging no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for those seeking a more demanding ride, Kolonie Merksplas has challenging options. The Westmalle Trappist Abbey – Forest Paths loop from Merksplas is a difficult route that covers over 80 km with varied terrain and some elevation, requiring good fitness. Another challenging option is the Borrekens Castle – The Zwart Water loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the gravel trails?
Yes, the region offers options for refreshments. The 'Colony 7 Brasserie & Café' is a pleasant spot located in a beautiful setting within the Kolonie Merksplas itself. You'll also find various cafes and pubs in nearby towns and villages, especially if your route passes through them, such as those near the Westmalle Trappist Abbey.
Are the no-traffic gravel trails in Kolonie Merksplas suitable for families with children?
Many of the easier and moderate no-traffic routes are suitable for families, especially those with smooth cycle paths or well-maintained gravel surfaces. The absence of traffic makes for a safer and more relaxed experience. Always check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about Kolonie Merksplas?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Kolonie Merksplas, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Riders frequently praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails, the diverse landscapes ranging from forests to fens, and the opportunity to discover historical sites and natural beauty away from busy roads.
Are there any routes that feature canals or waterways?
Yes, some routes incorporate scenic sections along canals. For instance, the Kesseven - Gewestbos Ravels – Smooth cycle path along the canal loop from Kolonie Merksplas offers extensive stretches of smooth cycling alongside waterways, providing a different kind of landscape to enjoy.
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