The best cycling routes around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud
4.2
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868
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36
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Touring cycling around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud offers an extensive network of paths, primarily paved, within a vast forest located southeast of Brussels. This region is characterized by ancient beech trees, forming impressive "beech cathedrals," and a diverse ecosystem with numerous ponds and valleys. While many routes are suitable for road or hybrid bikes, some segments may include unpaved surfaces. The forest's landscape provides a serene environment for cycling, with varied terrain ranging from gentle gradients to routes with significant elevation gain.
Best touring cycling routes around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud
- The most popular touring cycling route is Tervuren Park Ponds – Ponds in Tervuren Park loop from Jezus-Eik, a 25.8 miles (41.6 km) trail that takes 2 hours 57 minutes to complete. This route features the scenic ponds within Tervuren Park.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Château de La Hulpe – Domaine Solvay loop from Groenendaal, a difficult 42.6 miles (68.6 km) path. This route explores the surroundings of the Château de La Hulpe and Domaine Solvay, offering varied forest scenery.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bois de la Cambre – Boitsfort Ponds loop from Groenendaal, a 17.9 miles (28.8 km) trail leading through the Bois de la Cambre and past the Boitsfort Ponds, often completed in about 1 hour 51 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud is defined by ancient beech forests, extensive paved paths, and picturesque ponds. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes with notable elevation changes.
- The routes in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. More than 700 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.6
(20)
52
riders
23.5km
01:32
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
89
riders
41.4km
02:56
380m
380m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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80
riders
67.2km
04:56
660m
660m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(9)
80
riders
29.0km
01:53
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(9)
61
riders
19.0km
01:14
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Definitely stop by Ernesto koffie (right at the roundabout Walensebaan and Smisstraat), a cozy little food truck right by the ponds. There are also cozy seating areas provided at the food truck itself. Delicious coffee and wonderful pastries. Ideal for a refueling stop. Super friendly service. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10:30
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Beautiful gravel path at the battlefield of Waterloo, you also pass the former convent where Soeur Sourire lived.
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Spacious and covered picnic area with a view of the Lion of Waterloo. Around the picnic area, you can find several monuments in honor of those who fell during the Battle of Waterloo. If you take the country road east, you will reach the former convent where Soeur sourire (the composer of the song Dominique) lived.
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The most famous monument on the battlefield of Waterloo. The hill can be seen from afar.
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From here you have a good view of the landscape in which the Battle of Waterloo was fought, you can still clearly see the slope in the landscape that allowed the British to take up a good defensive position.
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The most visible of Dzia's works at the station. Look for the others too. For those who don't know Dzia: some time ago an article appeared in OKV (Openbaar Kunstbezit Vlaanderen) with a photo of a work here at the station and the following description of Dzia: "Dzia is also passionate about animals. He mainly depicts wild animals. Foxes and birds seem to be recurring favorites. His unique style creates a mosaic of colors that follows the contours and shapes of the animal. In his more recent work, he adds tonal shading within each defined area, enhancing a sense of volume. His work tries to give animals a place back in an urban environment. The locations of his murals are carefully chosen and he positions his colorful animals in such a way that a playful interaction with the surroundings is created." And you can find that 40-page dossier on street art in Flemish cities at https://www.okv.be/sites/default/files/2020-09/Street%20art%20in%20Vlaamse%20steden.pdf
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A series of beautiful works by Dzia that have been there for a while, see: https://www.ringtv.be/cultuur-beeldende-kunst/graffitikunstenaar-smukt-treinstation-groenendaal-op The colourful birds are however a bit newer, see: https://www.instagram.com/p/DKKVbl6oZ5M/ And if you are in Groenendaal and like Dzia's work, also check out what he did with the ecoduct: https://www.werkenaandering.be/nl/lees-mee/nieuws/beestige-graffiti-kleurt-ecoduct-groenendaal For those who don't know Dzia: some time ago an article appeared in OKV (Openbaar Kunstbezit Vlaanderen) about street art in Flemish cities with a photo of a work that you find here at the station and the following description of Dzia: "Dzia is also passionate about animals. He mainly depicts wild animals. Foxes and birds seem to be recurring favourites. His unique style creates a mosaic of colours that follow the contours and shapes of the animal. In his more recent work, he adds tonal shading within each defined area, which enhances the sense of volume. His work tries to give animals a place in an urban environment again. The locations of his murals are carefully chosen and he positions his colourful animals in such a way that a playful interaction with the environment arises." And this 40-page dossier on street art in Flemish cities can be found at: https://www.okv.be/sites/default/files/2020-09/Street%20art%20in%20Vlaamse%20steden.pdf
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The Groenendaal station and its associated shelter were built in the typical "national" station style between 1893 and 1896, in this case a rather luxurious execution due to the abundant use of natural stone and great attention to detail. This can possibly be explained by the great attraction of Groenendaal to the Brussels bourgeoisie as an ideal starting point for a forest walk combined with a restaurant visit, but also by the figure of Leopold II, who was reportedly directly involved in the design and was a regular visitor to the Groenendaal racecourse (1889). The Groenendaal station, near the Zoniënwoud, is the only station building on the Brussels-Luxembourg line in Flemish territory. This railway line was built between 1847 and 1857 by the "Grande Compagnie du Luxembourg", which also had the management concession. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Groenendaal station with shelter, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/200186
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
There are over 25 touring cycling routes in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find routes from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
The routes in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud feature mostly paved surfaces, making them ideal for road or hybrid bikes. While the majority are smooth, some segments may include unpaved sections, requiring good fitness for gravel riding. The terrain varies from gentle gradients to routes with significant elevation gain, offering diverse cycling experiences.
Are there routes suitable for families or beginners?
Yes, Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud offers several easy touring cycling routes, with 13 routes specifically categorized as easy. These paths typically have gentle gradients and are suitable for those looking for a relaxed ride or cycling with family. Many routes are under two hours, providing accessible options for all.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see while cycling?
While cycling, you can experience the majestic 'beech cathedrals' formed by ancient trees, some over 200 years old, which contribute to the forest's UNESCO World Heritage status. You'll also encounter picturesque ponds like the Drowned Children Ponds and the Ganzepoot Pond. Historical sites such as the remnants of ancient priories like Red Monastery (Rouge-Cloître) also dot the landscape.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the forest?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the popular Tervuren Park Ponds – Ponds in Tervuren Park loop from Jezus-Eik is a great circular option, as is the Bois de la Cambre – Boitsfort Ponds loop from Groenendaal.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
The Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular for touring cycling. In spring, the forest comes alive with fresh greenery, while autumn offers stunning foliage colors. Summer provides pleasant temperatures for longer rides, and even mild winter days can be enjoyable for cycling through the serene, bare beech forests.
How can I access the touring cycling routes by public transport?
The Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud is easily accessible from Brussels by public transport. Strategic 'access gates' around the forest serve as convenient starting points for excursions. Many bus and tram lines connect Brussels city center to the forest's edges, allowing you to bring your bike and start your tour directly from these points.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 5 difficult routes available. These routes often feature significant elevation gain and longer distances. An example is the Château de La Hulpe – Domaine Solvay loop from Groenendaal, which is a difficult 68.6 km path with substantial climbing.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. Reviewers often praise the extensive network of well-maintained paths, the serene beauty of the ancient beech forests, and the peaceful escape from urban life. Many appreciate the varied terrain and the opportunity to explore historical sites and picturesque ponds.
Can I spot wildlife while cycling in the forest?
Yes, the diverse ecosystem of Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud supports a rich array of flora and fauna. Cyclists have opportunities to observe wildlife, including around 40 mammal species and 132 bird species. Early mornings or late afternoons are often the best times for wildlife spotting, especially in quieter sections of the forest.
Are there any facilities or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, the 'access gates' around the forest often provide facilities. Additionally, the proximity to towns and villages bordering the forest means you can typically find places for refreshments or a break within a short detour from many routes. The Tervuren Park Ponds – Voerwegske Pathway loop from Jezus-Eik, for instance, passes through areas with amenities.
Most popular routes around Forêt de Soignes - Zoniënwoud
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