The best traffic-free bike rides around Tessenderlo
4.4
(142)
2,829
riders
191
rides
Gravel biking around Tessenderlo features a diverse landscape suitable for unpaved routes. The region offers a network of paths and agricultural roads, often following natural features like the Albert Canal and passing through nature reserves such as De Maten and Gerhagen. These areas provide varied terrain, including forest paths and riverside trails, ideal for no traffic gravel bike trails. The topography generally includes gentle undulations, with some routes incorporating cultural landmarks like Tongerlo Abbey.
Best no traffic gravel bike trails around Tessenderlo
- The most popular no traffic gravel bike trail is Vlooyberg Tower – Vlooyberg Tower loop from Zichem, a 44.9 miles (72.2 km) trail that takes 4 hours 4 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of the unique Vlooyberg Tower and surrounding countryside.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Vlooyberg Tower – Vlooyberg Tower loop from Diest, a difficult 65.1 miles (104.8 km) path. This longer route provides extensive exploration of the region's varied unpaved surfaces and natural areas.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Maagdentoren Zichem – Entrance Abbey Tongerlo loop from Zichem, a 62.8 miles (101.1 km) trail leading through agricultural landscapes and past historical sites like Tongerlo Abbey, often completed in about 6 hours 1 minute.
- Gravel biking around Tessenderlo is defined by agricultural roads, forest paths, and riverside trails. The network offers options for various ability levels, from moderate rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Tessenderlo are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 2000 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Tessenderlo's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 10, 2026
4.5
(2)
23
riders
170km
09:42
560m
560m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
riders
107km
06:34
770m
770m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.0
(2)
16
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
14
riders
68.4km
04:07
120m
120m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
riders
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 around Tessenderlo
Tips from the Community
The citadel in Diest is a 19th-century fort that served as an army barracks for the paracommandos until 2011. The city will renovate and redevelop the citadel in several phases into a new city district. As part of this, a part of the citadel will receive a temporary activating function starting in the summer of 2024. This temporary function is organized by the cooperative Citadel Diest. You will find a lot of entrepreneurs, organizations, and associations working on very diverse themes: work & meeting, creativity & tranquility, sports & games, crafts, making & learning, and delicious local food. In Block 3, you will find coworking, meeting and event spaces, creative entrepreneurs, and a wide range of offerings related to tranquility, health, and well-being. Block 4 houses the makers, circular entrepreneurs, and also the production and short-chain sales of local healthy food. All event spaces are located in Block 5.
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Between two smaller hills you pass this chapel...
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The De Asdonkstraat is located in the middle of the Dassenaarde nature reserve in Molenstede. You walk there when you explore the nature reserve.
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It looks like the athletics track...
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The Hoolstmolen is a historic watermill in the Belgian municipality of Balen (province of Antwerp). It is one of the most characteristic monuments in the region and is known as one of the oldest mills in the municipality.
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Cycle path along the Weefberg in the Averbode forest.
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Nice segment from the Gempe mill to blast up with the big gear.
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A huge marker with rounded curves on which is engraved Geodetic Station.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Tessenderlo?
There are over 150 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Tessenderlo, offering a wide range of options for all skill levels. You'll find 22 easy routes, 73 moderate routes, and 60 more challenging trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Tessenderlo?
Tessenderlo and its surroundings offer diverse terrain ideal for gravel biking. You can expect a mix of forest paths, agricultural roads, and potentially riverside trails. The region's natural features, including nature reserves like De Maten and Gerhagen, provide varied landscapes and unpaved routes.
Are there any easy, family-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Tessenderlo?
Yes, Tessenderlo offers several easy no-traffic gravel routes suitable for families. These trails typically feature gentler gradients and less technical terrain, allowing for a relaxed ride through the scenic landscape. Look for routes marked as 'easy' to find the most suitable options.
What are some interesting landmarks or viewpoints I can discover along the gravel trails?
Many gravel trails in the Tessenderlo area pass by interesting landmarks and offer scenic viewpoints. You might encounter cultural sites like Averbode Abbey or natural features such as Averbode Forest and Heath Ponds. For panoramic views, consider trails that lead to spots like Viewpoint on the Beringen spoil tip or Summit of Avonturenberg Terril 1.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the trails in Tessenderlo?
The komoot community highly rates the gravel biking experience in Tessenderlo, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the quiet, traffic-free nature of the routes, the diverse landscapes, and the opportunity to combine physical activity with exploring local natural and cultural landmarks.
Are there any circular no-traffic gravel routes available?
Yes, many of the no-traffic gravel routes around Tessenderlo are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end your ride in the same location. An example of a moderate circular route is the Vlooyberg Tower – Vlooyberg Tower loop from Zichem, which offers a great gravel experience.
Can I find challenging no-traffic gravel routes with significant elevation around Tessenderlo?
Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers seeking a challenge, there are difficult no-traffic routes with notable elevation gains. For instance, the Vlooyberg Tower – Vlooyberg Tower loop from Diest covers over 100 km with significant climbing, providing a demanding ride.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Tessenderlo?
The diverse terrain of Tessenderlo makes it suitable for gravel biking through much of the year. Spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. While specific winter conditions can vary, many trails remain accessible, though some segments might require more robust tires or careful navigation.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites or abbeys?
Yes, you can find routes that incorporate historical and cultural sites. For example, the Maagdentoren Zichem – Entrance Abbey Tongerlo loop from Zichem allows you to cycle past the historic Maagdentoren and near the beautiful Tongerlo Abbey, offering a chance to pause and explore.
Where can I find a moderate gravel route that includes a mix of natural and cultural sights?
A great option for a moderate route combining natural beauty with cultural interest is the Great Mill of Zichem – Maagdentoren Zichem loop from Diest. This trail offers a balanced ride through varied landscapes while passing by historical points of interest.
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