4.3
(453)
4,297
riders
83
rides
Touring cycling around Ixelles - Elsene offers a blend of urban green spaces and connections to larger natural areas. The municipality is characterized by extensive parks like Bois de la Cambre, which acts as an extension of the vast Sonian Forest. Freshwater ponds, such as the Ixelles Ponds, provide picturesque settings for cycling. The terrain includes mostly well-paved surfaces suitable for various fitness levels, with some segments potentially unpaved.
Last updated: May 14, 2026
4.8
(40)
345
riders
50.5km
03:06
390m
390m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.4
(5)
273
riders
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(24)
269
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(16)
190
riders
25.4km
01:38
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(14)
132
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Two important lordships formed the basis of the current Hoeilaart: the lordship of Ter Heyde south of the IJse on the one hand, and the lordship of Holaer or Hoeilaart north of the IJse on the other. Here once stood the castle of the Ter Heyde lordship from the fifteenth century. That lordship ceased to exist after the abolition of the ancien régime. The current castle was built in 1858 on the orders of baron Jean de Man d’Attenrode (mayor of Hoeilaart from 1854-1878) and his wife Maria Carolina d’Ormesson. It is therefore not a remnant of the old lordship. BUT: the chapel and former closed farm next to it are. This building has now, as others have mentioned, been given a different function and dominates the view in the park. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Kasteel van Hoeilaart, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/39785
6
0
Practical for safely crossing the highway. New bridge in very good condition.
0
0
On this path, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Dijle landscape. Enjoy it to the fullest at a moderate speed.
5
0
A beautiful place for rest and walking: you can stroll along it, enjoy the greenery and water, and it is part of the historical and natural charm of Tervuren.
6
0
Relaxation for young and old
2
0
Tax money was invested wisely here.
2
0
Great cycle path through the forest
2
0
Despite occasional heavy traffic, it is a great place to cycle.
2
0
There are over 75 touring cycling routes in Ixelles - Elsene, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. These routes explore the region's green spaces and connections to larger natural areas.
Yes, Ixelles - Elsene offers 14 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for a leisurely ride is the Ixelles Ponds – Lake in the Bois de la Cambre loop from Bruxelles-Luxembourg - Brussel-Luxemburg. This 9.8-mile (15.8 km) trail takes you through the picturesque Ixelles Ponds and Bois de la Cambre, offering a pleasant experience for all.
The terrain in Ixelles - Elsene primarily features mostly well-paved surfaces, making it suitable for various fitness levels. However, some segments, particularly those extending into areas like the Bois de la Cambre or the Sonian Forest, may be unpaved. This blend offers both smooth rides and opportunities for slightly more varied surfaces.
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Ixelles - Elsene has 34 difficult routes. One such route is the Ponds in Tervuren Park – Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest loop from Germoir - Mouterij. This extensive 72.3-mile (116.3 km) loop features significant elevation gain, traversing multiple forests and parks.
Many routes in Ixelles - Elsene pass through or near significant natural attractions. You can cycle around the tranquil Ixelles Ponds, explore the expansive Sonian Forest, or enjoy the scenic Bois de la Cambre. These areas are known for their natural beauty and offer a refreshing escape within the city's vicinity.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ixelles - Elsene are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Tervuren Park Ponds – Lake in the Park van Tervuren loop from Germoir - Mouterij and the Sonian Forest – Tervuren Park Ponds loop from Germoir - Mouterij, which offer convenient circular journeys through the region's highlights.
The touring cycling routes in Ixelles - Elsene are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 460 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of urban green spaces and connections to larger natural areas, highlighting the well-maintained paths and scenic beauty of locations like the Bois de la Cambre and Sonian Forest.
Beyond natural beauty, cycling in Ixelles - Elsene allows you to discover historical and cultural landmarks. Routes often pass by areas with historic buildings and cozy squares. For specific historical sites, consider exploring nearby castles such as Château de La Hulpe or Domaine Solvay, which are accessible from some of the longer routes.
Ixelles - Elsene is well-integrated into the Brussels public transport network. Many routes, such as those starting from Germoir - Mouterij or Bruxelles-Luxembourg - Brussel-Luxemburg, are easily accessible by train or other public transport options, making it convenient to reach your starting point without a car.
Yes, given Ixelles - Elsene's urban and semi-urban character, many routes offer opportunities to stop for refreshments. Areas around the Ixelles Ponds and Bois de la Cambre, for instance, have cafes and eateries. The Robinson chalet in Bois de la Cambre is a notable spot for a break. Longer routes extending into towns will also provide options for food and drink.
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Ixelles - Elsene, with mild temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially wet conditions, especially on unpaved sections.
Absolutely. Ixelles - Elsene is known for its strong connection to the Sonian Forest, which acts as a significant natural feature for the region. Routes like the Sonian Forest – Tervuren Park Ponds loop from Germoir - Mouterij directly traverse parts of this ancient 'beech cathedral,' offering extensive and unspoiled routes for touring cyclists.


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