The best cycling routes in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving

There are over 580 touring cycling routes in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving, offering a wide variety of options for exploring the region's flat landscapes, forests, and canals.

Yes, the region is well-suited for beginners and families, with over 350 easy routes. These routes typically feature gentle gradients and smooth terrain, often following canal paths or quiet forest trails. An example is the Lock 1 Rijkevorsel – Picnic Area by the Canal loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel, which is 22 km long and very flat.

The terrain is predominantly flat, characterized by extensive forests, open fields, and a network of canals. You'll find options for both paved and gravel surfaces, with paths often following waterways and leading through wooded areas, offering varied scenery.

Yes, many routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Smooth cycle path along the canal – Dessel–Turnhout–Schoten Canal loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel offers a 38.9 km circular ride along a flat canal path.

The routes often pass by natural attractions such as Duivelskuil Pond and De Pomp/Poelberg. You might also encounter the Eksterheide observation hide, which is great for wildlife spotting, or cycle through the Eksterheide Nature Reserve itself.

The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling, with mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer, while winter cycling is possible but may require appropriate gear for colder, potentially wetter weather.

Yes, for those looking for longer distances, routes like the Grotenhoutbos Lake – Warandeplas loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel cover 52.7 km, passing by significant water bodies. Another option is the Westmalle Trappist Abbey – Zoerselbos loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel, which extends to 61.3 km.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the diverse scenery of forests and canals, and the overall relaxed cycling experience suitable for all levels.

Yes, the region offers routes that incorporate gravel surfaces, providing a different cycling experience. An example is the Gravel path De Roet – Tarstraat (gravel path) loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel, which is an easy 30.5 km path through natural surroundings.

Given the nature reserve setting, there are good opportunities for wildlife spotting, especially in areas like the Eksterheide observation hide. Cyclists often report seeing various bird species and other local fauna, particularly in the quieter wooded and wetland areas.

Absolutely. With numerous routes ranging from short, easy loops to longer, moderate excursions, you can easily plan a full day of cycling. Many routes connect to form longer journeys, and the flat terrain makes covering significant distances enjoyable.