The best cycling routes around Spa

The Spa region, nestled in the Ardennes forests, offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter significant elevation changes, extensive natural reserves like the Hautes Fagnes, and picturesque valleys. Routes often follow converted railway lines, providing varied terrain through woodlands, open fens, and past natural mineral springs and bodies of water such as Lake Warfaaz.

There are over 100 touring cycling routes available around Spa on komoot, catering to various skill levels. This includes 6 easy routes, 29 moderate routes, and 77 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Spa are circular. For example, you could try the challenging RAVeL Between the Rocks – Stavelot Railway Tunnel loop from Spa-Géronstère, which covers 82.8 km and utilizes the extensive RAVeL network, often following old railway lines. Another option is the Gileppe Dam and the Lion Statue – Lake Gileppe loop from Spa-Géronstère, a difficult 61.8 km route offering scenic views.

The Spa region is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can cycle past natural mineral springs, known as 'pouhons,' and explore the Chawion Pond. The Épine Chapel – Berinzenne Observation Tower loop from Spa-Géronstère takes you through forested areas and past the Domaine de Berinzenne, which features an observation tower. Other notable natural highlights include the Coo Waterfall and the picturesque Ninglinspo Valley.

The touring cycling routes in Spa are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 130 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained RAVeL network, and the challenging yet rewarding climbs through the Ardennes forests.

Yes, several routes provide excellent viewpoints. The View of Spa – Chawion Pond loop from Spa is a 35.6 km route that leads through forested areas and offers scenic vistas of the town and surrounding nature. The Domaine de Berinzenne, accessible via routes like the Épine Chapel – Berinzenne Observation Tower loop from Spa-Géronstère, also features an observation tower for panoramic views.

The Spa region is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and stunning scenery with blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage. Summer is also popular, though routes can be busier. The extensive forest trails provide good shade during hotter days.

Absolutely. Many routes incorporate the region's water features. You can cycle past Lake Warfaaz, Chawion Pond, and the Hoëgne River. The Gileppe Dam and the Lion Statue – Lake Gileppe loop from Spa-Géronstère specifically offers scenic views around the Gileppe Dam and Lake Gileppe.

Yes, the Spa area is well-suited for advanced touring cyclists, with 77 routes rated as 'difficult' on komoot. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and longer distances. An example is the Scenic Forest Singletrack – Royompré Ford loop from Spa-Géronstère, a challenging 51 km route with nearly 940 meters of elevation gain.

For additional details on cycling and outdoor activities in the wider Spa-Hautes Fagnes area, you can visit the official tourism website: visitspa-hautesfagnes.be. This resource can provide further context on the region's offerings.

Yes, Spa benefits from the extensive RAVeL network, which converts old railway lines into safe and enjoyable paths for cyclists and pedestrians. Many touring cycling routes, such as the RAVeL Between the Rocks – Stavelot Railway Tunnel loop from Spa-Géronstère, utilize these dedicated paths, offering a smooth and scenic cycling experience.