The best traffic-free bike rides in East Flanders
4.3
(10292)
159,698
riders
4,969
rides
No traffic touring cycling routes in East Flanders traverse a varied landscape, characterized by extensive flat terrain along the Scheldt and Leie rivers, offering serene waterside paths. The region also features the rolling countryside of the Flemish Ardennes, known for its hills and unpaved tracks. Further diversity is found in the Meetjesland region with its forests and polders, and the open fields of Waasland. This topography provides a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best no traffic touring cycling routes in East Flanders
- The most popular no traffic touring cycling route is Lys region route, a 32.4 miles (52.2 km) trail that takes 3 hours 7 minutes to complete. This route explores the picturesque winding watercourse and green fields of the Lys region.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Cycling past castles - Antwerp, a moderate 31.5 miles (50.7 km) path. This route guides cyclists past historical castles and architectural landmarks.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Cycling past castles, a 29.4 miles (47.2 km) trail leading through areas with historic structures, often completed in about 2 hours 52 minutes.
- Touring cycling in East Flanders is defined by riverside paths, rolling hills, and tranquil polder landscapes. The network offers options for different ability levels, from relaxed scenic rides to more challenging terrain.
- The routes in East Flanders are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 9000 reviews. More than 144,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore East Flanders's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.5
(219)
1,084
riders
52.2km
03:06
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(121)
520
riders
50.7km
03:05
50m
50m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(111)
482
riders
47.2km
02:52
50m
50m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(97)
373
riders
37.8km
02:12
70m
70m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(7)
4,409
riders
49.5km
02:48
80m
80m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around East Flanders
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Tips from the Community
Located along the lower Scheldt near the pedestrian and cycle bridge in Oudenaarde.
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Porta Arboreti; monumental entrance gate and former dovecote belonging to and once forming access to the Ooidonk castle domain, which originates in the 14th century.
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Oudenaarde's town hall is one of the finest examples of Brabantine Late Gothic architecture in Belgium. It's a place filled with stories, ceremonies, and traditions, and an absolute eye-catcher on any walk through the city. With the sun shining from above, it's truly magnificent 😍
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beautiful gravel track towards the Kalkense Meersen
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The gate also serves as a bridge over the Kalebeek stream. The north facade of the gate (facing the church) features, in addition to the date 1864, the coat of arms of the t'Kint de Roodenbeke family, who acquired the castle that year (and still own it).
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Oudenaarde owes its fame in historical terms largely to the town hall, one of the most beautiful examples of Brabantine late Gothic in our country. The great value of the building lies in the extremely pure proportions and in the unparalleled monumentality. The iconic town hall of Oudenaarde is just under 500 years old. It is of a delicate beauty, a monument that conquers all hearts. It is charming and rises lively and graceful above the city. It is like a shrine in the middle of the market, surrounded by the hills of the Flemish Ardennes. Victor Hugo once wrote: "in this fantastic building there is not a single detail that is not worth looking at". For many Oudenaarde residents, the town hall is a place of joy and sorrow, of parties, formal receptions and weddings. A place that one certainly passes by at least once in a lifetime. For visitors it is one of the most beautiful town halls in our country, a pearl of late Gothic architecture but above all it is home to the MOU Museum Oudenaarde. In the historical rooms there is always a different atmosphere, you can see the fault line between old and new, there is a surprising story. You will find the Oudenaarde tapestries in the adjacent 14th century cloth hall, under the attic roof a magnificent collection of goldsmith's work, administrative rooms such as the aldermen's hall with the historical and royal portrait gallery, the large reception hall or People's Hall with historical wall paintings, the guardians' room with 18th century archive cabinets, the weighing room or city scales, a chapel with a restoration studio and countless more rooms, each with its own identity. (Visit Oudenaarde)
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The town hall of the Belgian city of Oudenaarde is known as a textbook example of Brabantine late Gothic. It was built on the site of the old aldermen's house, to which the still existing fourteenth-century cloth hall was connected. In 1525, the old aldermen's house was in disrepair and there was a great chance that it would collapse. Out of necessity but also longing for a new, more beautiful and more suitable building, the city council went looking for a master builder. Eventually, the choice fell on Hendrik van Pede from Brussels, who built the monumental Oudenaarde town hall in ten years (1526-1536).
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The brewery cannot be visited freely. A guided tour can be booked for groups from 15 to a maximum of 35 people. If a group of 15 people is already registered, you can join that group individually (see also general conditions). A guide will be provided for every group of 35 people. A visit is possible from Monday to Saturday, at 10 am, 2 pm, and 5 pm.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic touring cycling routes are available in East Flanders?
East Flanders offers a vast network of touring cycling routes designed to minimize traffic. There are over 4600 routes available, with more than 2300 classified as easy and 1600 as moderate, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What kind of landscapes can I expect on these car-free cycling routes in East Flanders?
You'll experience diverse landscapes, from the flat, serene paths along the **Scheldt** and **Leie** rivers, passing through charming villages and dike landscapes, to the rolling countryside of the **Flemish Ardennes** with its hills and wooded lanes. The **Lys region** is particularly known for its picturesque winding waterways and green fields, while **Meetjesland** offers a mix of forests and polders.
When is the best time of year to go touring cycling in East Flanders?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in East Flanders, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though it may bring cooler temperatures and more rain.
Are there family-friendly no-traffic cycling routes in East Flanders?
Yes, many of the routes along the river networks, such as the Scheldt and Leie, are relatively flat and well-maintained, making them ideal for families. These paths often pass through quiet areas and charming villages, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
Are there any circular no-traffic cycling routes?
East Flanders benefits from an extensive cycling node network, which makes it very easy to plan and follow circular routes. Many of the touring routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. You can find many such options on komoot.
What historical sites or castles can I see along these no-traffic touring routes?
East Flanders is rich in history and dotted with impressive castles. You can cycle past magnificent structures like Ooidonk Castle, a Renaissance gem, or the historic Gravensteen Castle. Routes like the Cycling past castles tour specifically highlight these architectural treasures.
Are there any natural attractions or lakes to explore on these routes?
Absolutely. The region features beautiful natural areas such as the brightly colored marshes of **Moervaartmeersen** and the tranquil **Daknamse Bossen** (forests). You can also discover serene lakes and ponds like the Peat Pits of Berlare Broek or the Pond of the Old Sandstone Quarry Kravaalbos, often found within peaceful parks like Berlare Castle Park.
Is parking available near the starting points of these no-traffic routes?
Yes, many popular starting points for cycling routes in East Flanders, especially in towns and villages, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for information on parking availability at the trailhead or nearby.
Can I reach these no-traffic cycling routes by public transport?
East Flanders has a well-developed public transport network, including trains and buses, which can often get you close to the starting points of many cycling routes. Major cities like Ghent are excellent hubs for connecting to regional routes. Check local transport schedules for the most convenient options.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in East Flanders?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.35 stars. Reviewers often praise the region's extensive and well-maintained cycling infrastructure, the peaceful car-free paths along rivers, and the charming blend of natural beauty and historical sights. The variety of routes, from flat and easy to more challenging in the Flemish Ardennes, is also frequently highlighted.
Are there specific routes that showcase the region's rivers?
Yes, the rivers are central to many of East Flanders' most scenic no-traffic routes. The Lys region route, for example, follows the picturesque winding Lys river, offering beautiful waterside views. Many paths along the Scheldt also provide serene cycling experiences through dike landscapes and past charming towns like Sint-Amands.
Are there any routes that pass through the city of Ghent?
Yes, you can find excellent no-traffic cycling routes that explore the surroundings of Ghent. The Cycling in Ghent route offers a great way to experience the city's green spaces and quieter paths, connecting you to the wider regional network.
Most popular routes in East Flanders
Most popular attractions in East Flanders
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