The best gravel rides around Balen
4.4
(67)
1,655
riders
29
rides
Gravel biking around Balen offers a network of routes through a generally flat landscape, characterized by river paths, canal-side trails, and forested sections. The region features low elevation changes, with most routes traversing open countryside and occasional sandy areas. These gravel bike trails in Balen provide varied surfaces suitable for gravel bikes, ranging from compacted earth to gravel paths.
Best gravel bike trails around Balen
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Path along the Grote Nete – Jagershof Bailey…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.5
(2)
52
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
38
riders
54.2km
03:40
100m
100m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(2)
82
riders
38.5km
02:30
70m
70m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
29
riders
84.3km
05:30
140m
140m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
9
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Balen
Tips from the Community
At Kattendijk, we deviate briefly to the left, to the beautiful picnic area at the Leyssensmolen. This important landmark is a corn mill with a very turbulent history. The wooden Leyssensmolen, surrounded by a green hedge and crowned with a pyramidal roof, is a must-see in Kattenbos. The mill, named after the Leyssen family who managed it from 1860 to 1905, has been a protected monument since 2001. After three relocations, the last in 1964, the mill now rests in this idyllic location amidst the vast natural landscape. If you've brought a picnic, this is undoubtedly the most beautiful picnic spot of the day.
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The Bailey Bridge in Mol At the beginning of World War II, the bridges on the Kempen canals were blown up. With the liberation, the British built a temporary bridge in Mol, which still stands today. The bridge is a so-called Bailey bridge, named after its designer, R.C. Bailey. He developed this ingenious, modular bridge for military purposes. A Bailey bridge can be assembled without machinery, using only manpower. Such a bridge is actually only meant to be there for a short time, but in some places, such as in Mol, it remained. The pillars of the old bridge are still clearly visible.
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You cycle under the S-shaped bridge...
9
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Narrow concrete path. Don't drive over it in the afternoon, it's busy then.
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Perfect for racing bike and gravel bike. Find a good time. If it is busy here you have to watch out for other cyclists because the path is very narrow. Avoid on the racing bike in the weekends with nice weather. The speed differences are really too big then.
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At this location you are standing in front of the iconic and historic lifting bridge in Balen-Wezel. The sturdy lifting bridge is an important connection over the Beverlo Canal, both economically and recreationally. Information about the Beverlo Canal runs from the harbour basin in Leopoldsburg in a northerly direction to the Bocholt-Herentals Canal. The canal has a length of 14.8 kilometres. The canal is no longer of great importance for commercial shipping and is therefore a beautiful canal for pleasure craft. There are eight bridges over the canal, some of which are still made of wood. The banks are mostly natural and reinforced in some places. The canal runs through many nature reserves and passes many bodies of water.
5
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Beautiful, quiet and scenic section. With a great cycle path in a wonderful forest.
3
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From mid-August the heather is in bloom, this makes the Lommel Sahara even more beautiful than usual. Definitely worth it, many picnic spots, nice cycle path, ideal also to put the bike aside and take a walk along the water.
3
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of gravel bike trails can I find around Balen?
The Balen region offers a diverse network of gravel bike trails, primarily characterized by river paths, canal-side routes, and forested sections. You'll encounter varied surfaces, from compacted earth to classic gravel paths, with generally low elevation changes.
Are there gravel bike trails suitable for beginners in Balen?
Yes, Balen has options for all skill levels. While many routes are moderate to difficult, there are at least 3 easy gravel bike tours available. These typically follow the region's flat landscape, making them accessible for those new to gravel biking.
What is the typical length and duration of gravel bike routes in Balen?
Gravel bike routes around Balen vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter rides, like the moderate View of Leyssensmolen – Singletrack in the Forest loop from Keiheuvel at 45.9 km (28.5 miles), which takes around 3 hours 20 minutes. Longer, more challenging routes, such as the difficult Zen in Mol – SAS4 Observation Tower loop from Balen, can extend to over 90 km (56 miles) and take more than 6 hours.
Are there any challenging gravel bike trails for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced gravel bikers, Balen offers 11 difficult routes. An example is the Path along the Grote Nete – Jagershof Bailey Bridge loop from Balen, which covers 83.9 km (52.1 miles) and features diverse terrain along the Grote Nete river.
What kind of natural attractions can I see along the gravel bike trails?
Many routes pass through or near significant natural areas. You can explore the unique sandy landscape of Lommel Sahara, or visit the Kapucienenberg Land Dunes. The region also features various lakes and nature reserves like the Ronde Put Nature Reserve.
Are there any viewpoints or observation towers accessible from the gravel routes?
Yes, several routes offer access to scenic viewpoints. For instance, the Lommel Sahara – Lommel Sahara loop from Balen can lead you to the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower, providing panoramic views of the distinctive landscape.
What is the best time of year for gravel biking in Balen?
Given the generally flat terrain and varied surfaces, gravel biking in Balen is enjoyable for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Summer is also suitable, though some sandy sections might be softer. Winter riding is possible, but be prepared for potentially muddy or icy conditions, especially on unpaved paths.
Are most gravel bike trails in Balen circular routes?
Many of the gravel bike trails around Balen are designed as circular routes, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. For example, the Asdonkstraat – Dessel-Kwaadmechelen Canal loop from Olmen is a popular loop that explores canal-side paths.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Balen?
The gravel biking experience in Balen is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 60 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil river paths to challenging singletrack sections, and the well-maintained network of routes.
Are there any unique landmarks or art installations to discover?
Beyond natural beauty, you might encounter interesting man-made features. For example, the area around Lommel Sahara features the unique art installation De Boom In by Will Beckers, offering a cultural highlight amidst your ride.
How many gravel bike trails are available in the Balen area?
There are approximately 28 gravel bike trails documented around Balen on komoot, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences.
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