4.4
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1,829
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Gravel biking around Kempen offers a diverse landscape characterized by extensive natural areas. The region features a rich mix of heathlands, fens, forests, and meandering lowland streams, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Riders can expect a network of paths including paved, unpaved, and dedicated gravel sections, some with coarse gravel. The Kempen Plateau, an elevated area, adds some climbs, particularly on its eastern edge, enhancing the riding experience.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
4.0
(1)
11
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.

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9
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
6
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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A resting bench has rightly been placed at this location. Make use of it and enjoy the beautiful heathland landscape. Information boards provide details about the surroundings.
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De Grenswachter is one of the four bakery museums in the Netherlands. In addition to the aforementioned workshops, the museum is also open to the public. Enjoy baking demonstrations in a wood-fired oven from 1850, or a beer tasting combined with a sausage roll workshop. The museum has developed special baking programs for the blind and visually impaired, such as ‘Baking with Feeling’ and ‘Feeling Sculptures’. Consequently, the museum welcomes a wide variety of guests, such as expats from major companies in the Brainport region, who learn all about typical Brabant crafts from the multilingual volunteers. Want to know more? Click through to https://www.visitbrabant.com/nl/locaties/878499397/bakkerijmuseum-de-grenswachter
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The bench next to the border marker gives you plenty of time to observe it while enjoying the lush nature.
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De Grenswachter Mill (Luyksgestel) De Grenswachter Mill is a striking octagonal belt mill dating from 1891, built on a hill so that the sails could catch the wind above the flat landscape surrounding Luyksgestel. For many years, the mill ground grain for the farmers in the region and is known for its powerful wind catch due to its open location near the Belgian border. After periods of inactivity, the mill has been lovingly restored and now regularly operates again powered by volunteer millers. Inside, you can still see how the old milling mechanism works: wooden gears, flour chutes, and the original millstone. It is a recognizable landmark on the edge of the village and a beautiful piece of living heritage. Traditional Bakery Luyksgestel The bakery in Luyksgestel is part of the mill and together forms a small, historic, artisanal complex. In the past, the grain ground in De Grenswachter was processed directly into bread and pastries for the village. The tradition of true craftsmanship has always remained: fresh bread, local specialties, and products still made the old-fashioned way. The building itself has a charming, almost nostalgic feel and fits in beautifully with the mill complex. For many visitors, it's a pleasant stop during a tour of the village or the surrounding border region.
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Larger covered rest area at the intersection of Poppelseweg and several hiking and cycling paths.
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A border marker is a must-see if you're walking along the border strip. I already have a whole collection.
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Another stretch of the fine gravel paths of Strabrechtse Heide, and you will regularly encounter a flock of sheep there.
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Komoot offers over 100 no-traffic gravel bike trails in Kempen, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 14 easy routes, 60 moderate, and 34 difficult options, ensuring there's a perfect ride for everyone looking to explore the region's natural beauty away from cars.
Kempen's no-traffic gravel trails offer a wonderfully diverse experience. You'll ride through a mix of heathlands, fens, dense forests, and along meandering lowland streams. Many routes feature unpaved forest paths, dirt roads, and dedicated gravel sections, some with coarse gravel, providing a dynamic and engaging ride. Areas like the Kampina Nature Reserve and Hoge Kempen National Park are particularly known for their varied surfaces.
Yes, Kempen offers several challenging no-traffic gravel routes, particularly those traversing the Kempens Plateau, which features some climbs. Routes like the Hidden Sand Hills loop from Weebosch or the extensive Gravel Path Along the Forest from Grenspark De Kempen are rated as difficult, offering longer distances and more elevation gain for experienced riders.
Kempen's no-traffic gravel trails are rich with natural beauty. You can explore areas like the Rovertse Heide and Neterselse Heide, or cycle through the Kampina Nature Reserve with its winding gravel paths. Keep an eye out for highlights such as The Groot Pannegoor or the unique Boardwalk through Cartierheide, which offers a distinct perspective of the landscape.
While many routes are moderate to difficult, Kempen does offer easier options suitable for families, especially those with some cycling experience. Look for routes designated as 'easy' in the guide. These often stick to flatter sections of forests and heathlands, providing a pleasant and safe environment away from traffic. The region's extensive network of paths ensures you can find suitable distances for all ages.
The komoot community highly rates the no-traffic gravel trails in Kempen, with an average score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 71 ratings. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse and tranquil landscapes, the extensive network of unpaved paths, and the feeling of solitude found in areas like Hoge Kempen National Park. The variety of terrain, from heathlands to forests, is also frequently highlighted.
Yes, many of Kempen's no-traffic gravel trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Forest path at the border loop from Grenspark De Kempen offers a scenic circular ride. These loops are ideal for exploring the region's natural beauty without needing to retrace your steps.
While the focus is on natural landscapes, some routes may pass near historical sites. For instance, the region is home to Postel Abbey, a serene and historic site founded in 1140, which can be incorporated into scenic cycling routes. You might also encounter charming inns like In den Bockenreyder, a popular starting point for rides, offering a glimpse into local culture.
Kempen is enjoyable for gravel biking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer is also great, especially for rides through shaded forests. While winter can be ridden, be mindful of potentially muddy conditions on unpaved sections, particularly after heavy rain.
Yes, Kempen has several welcoming spots for cyclists. You'll find popular inns like In den Bockenreyder, known for its pleasant atmosphere, food, and drinks, often serving as a starting point or mid-ride stop. There are also cycling cafes, some managed by ex-pro cyclists, providing a great place to relax and refuel. For example, The Wild Boar Inn is a highlight you might encounter.
Absolutely. Kempen is home to several outstanding nature reserves perfect for no-traffic gravel biking. The Kampina Nature Reserve is known for its beautiful winding gravel paths, while Hoge Kempen National Park offers many unpaved kilometers through forests, sand excavations, and heath. You can also explore Estate "de Utrecht" for its long stretches of gravel roads and forest trails, or the unique "Cycling Through the Trees Path" in Bosland National Park.


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