The best traffic-free bike rides in Flanders

A place of great serenity

The gravel section is much more pleasant than the cobblestones

Beautiful town center with remains of the wall

In the Hoge Kempen National Park, Belgium's only national park, covering over 12,000 hectares of forests, heathlands, lakes, and valleys, cycling facilities have been significantly enhanced in recent years with new routes and experience points that make the area's natural diversity uniquely accessible to cyclists. One of the most striking of these is the cycle route near Kikmolen, located on the southwestern edge of the park near Maasmechelen, not far from the Dutch border. A special section cuts through the vast nature reserve. This cycling experience, part of the National Park's extensive cycling junction network, was introduced in 2021 as a new and attractive addition to the cycling offer. Instead of simply following regular cycle paths through forests and heathland, the route literally takes you through the heathland and open landscape of the Mechelse Heide, one of the largest heathlands in Flanders, with approximately 700 hectares of nature. What makes this route so special is the nearly 300-meter-long wooden panoramic bridge that forms part of the route between junctions 550 and 551. Constructed from sustainable wood, this bridge resembles a pier by the sea, yet nestled amidst the heathland and forests of Limburg. As you cycle across it, the path literally rises above the ground, offering unobstructed views of the Mechelse Heide and the surrounding nature park from its wooden structure. Horses graze in the distance, and in various spots, you'll see the rich flora and fauna that characterize the national park, making every bike ride a true nature experience. The route is approximately four kilometers long and forms part of the regional cycling network that runs through the National Park. You can combine this path with longer rides through the park using the numerous junctions, making it easy to create your own route or follow one of the suggested routes. Bicycles are available for rent at various park entrances, such as Station As Terhills or Kattevennen, so you don't necessarily need to bring your own. The cycling experience at Kikmolen is not only beautiful because of its natural and panoramic character, but also because of its accessibility. It's close to amenities such as campsites and restaurants, including a brasserie and parking facilities at the campsite itself. This makes the route part of a day trip or a longer visit to the park, with opportunities to explore other cycling or hiking routes, such as those along mine spoil tips or through forests and water features within the national park.

Beautiful Chapel, unfortunately the crypt is closed

Beautiful view on a car-free route

Only accessible to cyclists and hikers.

At the National Park Visitor Center, you're welcome to come and find out more about your visit to the National Park. Staff and volunteers are happy to provide practical information and helpful tips. You can buy hiking and cycling maps here. There's a wide selection of organic and regional drinks, such as lemonade, juice, and local beers. You can also enjoy a delicious ice cream after a brisk walk. Picnicking is permitted on the terrace and in the walking area. If you wish to picnic on the terrace near reception, please purchase your own drinks and refrain from bringing your own. Meanwhile, the kids can have fun in the playground. Be sure to visit the charming shop with regional products. Just a stone's throw away, you can climb one of the towers for a beautiful view of the surrounding area. When you resume your bike ride, you'll eventually come to a cycling and walking bridge between the slag heaps, offering spectacular views of the lake and the bridge itself, which winds its way across to the other side.