The best MTB trails around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud
4.5
(64)
676
riders
14
rides
Mountain biking around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud offers routes through a sprawling peri-urban forest southeast of Brussels. This area is characterized by its ancient "cathedral beech forests," some over 200 years old, and diverse habitats including valleys and areas with springs. The forest also features several lakes and ponds, providing varied terrain for mountain bikers.
Best mountain bike trails around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Château de La Hulpe – Grasdelle Trail…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(3)
179
riders
79.0km
05:33
750m
750m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
4.4
(29)
300
riders
41.2km
02:36
340m
340m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
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84
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary.
5.0
(7)
27
riders
37.6km
02:36
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.
7
riders
68.7km
05:07
850m
850m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. Some portions of the route may require you to push your bike.
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Tips from the Community
Trail that runs through fields where the Battle of Waterloo took place.
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The most famous monument on the battlefield of Waterloo. The hill can be seen from afar.
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This road is called Hakenstakendreef today and connects the current Groenendaal station with the tunnel under Sint-Jansberglaan, which leads you to the former racecourse (and the restored Royal Box). The Hakenstakendreef is incidentally mentioned in a building application as the "chemin d'accès" (access road) that led to the now-nonexistent Groenendaal-Hippodroom station. See https://hoeilaart.weleer.be/renbaan-groenendaal/2904 At the beginning of the avenue, you will find information boards about the forest; at the end, by the tunnel, is part of the former racecourse car park where this station once stood, and where racehorses, as well as people, were brought by train. You are therefore walking in a once very popular area, as at its peak, around fifty horse races were organized in Groenendaal (before the First World War). But you won't see much more than the gravel road and trees (until you reach the remains of the car park and the tunnel).
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Open grassy area with some benches, ideal for a break on dry days.
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Superb view of the Lion
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A solid wood bridge crosses the Horseshoe Pond, which is thus divided into two parts.
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Beautiful place with a lot of history.
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View of the famous Lion of Waterloo and its accompanying mound, which will celebrate its bicentennial in 2026. They were constructed at the request of King William I Frederik, using clay soil from the surrounding area. William I, who lived from 1772 to 1843, was the first and only king of the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. He commissioned many works and is also known as the merchant king and the canal king. His son, William II, was second-in-command of the British-Dutch-German forces. After his supposedly courageous actions at the Battle of Quatre-Bras, two days before Waterloo, he was also called "the hero of Waterloo." King William I commissioned the construction of the Lion of Waterloo in his honor. However, the British considered him a troublemaker, who took unnecessary risks and made many mistakes. Moreover, the one-sided and unjustified focus on the role of the impulsive William led to many Dutch heroes being ignored during the battle. You can read more about this at https://geschiedenismagazine.nl/was-de-prins-van-oranje-wel-de-held-van-waterloo-1815 The mound is 41 meters high, has a diameter of 169 meters, and slopes at a 30-degree angle. It is crowned by a lion, symbolizing the victory of the monarchies of the time. Sources: - https://www.regiedergebouwen.be/nl/projects/de-leeuw-van-waterloo - https://historiek.net/koning-willem-i-der-nederlanden/172414/
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
There are 17 mountain bike trails available in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 5 easy, 5 moderate, and 7 difficult routes to explore.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud offers several easy mountain bike trails. An excellent option for beginners is the Grasdelle Trail Clearing – Grippensdelle MTB Singletrack loop from Groenendaal, an 18.1-mile (29.2 km) path featuring varied singletrack sections and forest paths. Another easy route is the Royal Lodge of Groendaal – Short but Steep Passage loop from Groenendaal, which is 14.9 miles (23.9 km) long.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the mountain bike trails?
The terrain in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud is diverse, characterized by its ancient 'cathedral beech forests' with towering trees, some over 200 years old. You'll encounter varied habitats including valleys, areas with calcareous outcrops and springs, and several lakes and ponds. Trails range from singletrack sections to wider forest paths, offering a mix of surfaces and elevation changes.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the area?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the challenging Château de La Hulpe – Grasdelle Trail Clearing loop from Groenendaal is a 49.3-mile (79.3 km) circular trail, and the Mountain Bike Descent Trail – Laurensart Wood loop from Groenendaal is a 41.0-mile (66.1 km) loop through dense woodlands.
What are some interesting natural features or landmarks to see while mountain biking?
While mountain biking, you can experience the majestic 'cathedral beech forests' that are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest also features several scenic lakes and ponds, such as the Drowned Children Ponds, Ganzepoot Pond, and Étang Sec (Sonian Forest). You might also pass by historical sites like the Red Monastery (Rouge-Cloître).
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
The mountain bike trails in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the extensive sections of ancient beech forest, the varied singletrack, and the overall natural beauty and tranquility of the area.
Is Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud suitable for advanced mountain bikers?
Yes, the region offers challenging routes for advanced mountain bikers. There are 7 difficult trails, including the Trail No. 86 of Bois Mastradé – Bois de Lauzelle loop from Groenendaal, which is 45.7 miles (73.5 km) long with significant elevation changes, providing a demanding ride through varied terrain.
How accessible is Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud by public transport?
Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud is easily accessible, located just 4 kilometers from Brussels city center. There are several 'gates' or entry points, such as Groenendaal, Jezus-Eik, and Tervuren Park, which are well-served by public transport, making it convenient to reach the trailheads without a car.
Are there specific parking areas for mountain bikers?
Yes, the main entry points to Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud, such as Groenendaal, Jezus-Eik, and Tervuren Park, typically offer designated parking facilities. These points are often where many trails begin, providing convenient access for mountain bikers.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the mountain bike trails?
The entry points and surrounding areas of Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud, such as Groenendaal, often have cafes, restaurants, or pubs where you can refuel before or after your ride. These amenities are generally located close to the main access points of the forest.
What is the best time of year for mountain biking in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
Mountain biking in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud is enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with changing foliage. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter can offer a unique experience, though some trails might be muddy or require more appropriate gear.
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