The best traffic-free bike rides around Kloosterbos
4.5
(14)
167
riders
14
rides
Gravel biking around Kloosterbos offers diverse landscapes and natural features, making it a compelling destination for outdoor activities. The forest area is characterized by a blend of woodlands, including towering pines, birches, and oaks, situated on a sand ridge formed during the ice age. This sandy ground provides favorable conditions for gravel biking due to its firm yet pliable nature, offering a balance of grip and reduced rolling resistance. The unpaved paths are generally well-maintained, providing a natural riding experience…
Last updated: July 13, 2026
5
riders
57.1km
03:06
60m
60m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
13
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
22
riders
47.1km
02:37
50m
50m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
5
riders
30.1km
01:38
30m
30m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
riders
48.4km
02:37
50m
50m
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Kloosterbos
Tips from the Community
beautiful long gravel stretch. this is the start of many gravel adventures if you come from Ghent,
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The wooden arch bridge over the Stekense Vaart, named after Frans Coppens, was receiver-clerk in the municipality of Sinaai for almost a quarter of a century. He played an important role in "de Groote Watering van Sinay", the name given to the project launched by the Boerenbond in 1926. This project was initiated after repeated floods and aimed to make the polders 'dry'. The construction of the pumping station near Hondsnest was one of the first achievements within this project. During the Second World War, the unemployed were employed to clean or widen ditches. Under the impetus of dike reeve Jozef "meester" Maes and... receiver-clerk Frans Coppens (!), major reclamation works were carried out in the 60s, continuing into the following decades. Thus, Hondsnest got a new pumping station in 1975. In the meantime, the watering area had been converted into a polder, pursuant to the polder law of June 3, 1957. source: info file "Polder Daknam-Sinaai"
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This open water (creek) is a remnant of a military inundation in the fight against the French in the War of the Spanish Succession - period 1701–1713. By breaching this dike, the polders behind it around Koewacht were flooded. When restoring the dike, they went around the deepest part of the stream channel.
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The gravel path is semi-hardened. The landscape you see here was partly shaped during the Spanish-Dutch struggle in the Eighty Years' War. Note the dikes and elevations in the landscape. These were important during the turbulent war years.
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The Dambrug bridge dates from the interwar period and was restored and partially renewed around 1945 after war damage. Originally, the bridge was manually operated, but it now has hydraulic operation. Source: Inventaris Onroerend Erfgoed
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Bovendurme? The naming of the different waters in the vicinity is sometimes quite confusing and requires an explanation: The Bovendurme is the part of the Durme located in the Ghent canals basin. The river begins at the confluence between the Zuidlede and the Moervaart near Daknam. It then flows further along Daknam and through the center of Lokeren, and flows into the Benedendurme near the Molsbroek. Previously, the Bovendurme and Benedendurme were one river called the Durme. But due to regular floods, a dam was built at the Molsbroek, which split the river into two parts. Because of this, the Benedendurme is often still called the "Durme", but the Bovendurme is mistakenly referred to as the Moervaart. Wikipedia
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Daknambrug in Daknam, a sub-municipality of Lokeren. This charming swing bridge over the Durme is located at the site of a former ferry crossing on the old Lille-Tilburg highway. Such a ferry served as a bridge to transport people, livestock, horses, and vehicles. The current swing bridge has replaced a small wooden bridge since the 1930s. At that time, the Durme was straightened here between the confluence of the Zuidlede and Moervaart at Spletterenbrug and the bend near Middendam. In the summer, you can see the bridge keeper opening the bridge to let pleasure boats pass, sailing to or from Lokeren.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic gravel bike trails are available around Kloosterbos?
There are over 15 dedicated no-traffic gravel bike trails around Kloosterbos, offering a variety of distances and difficulties. These routes are designed to keep you away from busy roads, allowing for a peaceful and immersive cycling experience through the region's diverse landscapes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the gravel bike trails in Kloosterbos?
The trails in Kloosterbos are primarily situated on sandy soil, a characteristic feature of the region's ice-age formed sand ridge. This provides a firm yet pliable surface, ideal for gravel biking. You'll encounter unpaved paths through diverse forest ecosystems, including sections with pines, birches, and oaks. While generally well-maintained, some paths might be muddy after rain, adding to the natural riding experience.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly no-traffic gravel routes in Kloosterbos?
Yes, Kloosterbos offers several easy gravel routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. For instance, the Siesmeersbos Forest Trail – Swijnscotpad loop from Zaffelare is an easy 32.7 km route with minimal elevation gain, providing a gentle introduction to gravel biking in the area.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the gravel trails?
Kloosterbos is rich in natural beauty. You'll cycle through varied forest landscapes, experiencing the refreshing scent of pine and resin. A notable natural feature is the "Witte Heuvel" (White Dune), a unique shifting sand dune. The forest is also part of the European Natura 2000 area, home to diverse flora like spotted lungwort and wood anemones, and various bird species.
Are the no-traffic gravel trails in Kloosterbos suitable for families or cycling with kids?
Absolutely! The "no traffic" nature of these gravel trails makes them particularly suitable for families and cycling with children. The Kloosterbos area itself is known for its family-friendly ambiance, with designated play zones and a "kampenbos" where children can explore. The easy routes provide a safe and enjoyable environment for younger riders.
Can I bring my dog on the gravel bike trails in Kloosterbos?
While the guide focuses on cycling, Kloosterbos is generally a dog-friendly area for walks. When cycling, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure they are comfortable with the pace and terrain. Always check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs on cycling paths within the nature reserve.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Kloosterbos?
Kloosterbos offers a great experience year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant. In spring, you can witness early bloomers like wood anemones, while autumn brings beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, but the forest provides ample shade. Be aware that paths might be muddy after heavy rain, especially in wetter seasons.
Where can I find parking for the gravel bike trails in Kloosterbos?
While specific parking locations aren't detailed in the route data, Kloosterbos is a popular recreational area. You can typically find designated parking areas near the main entrances to the forest or in nearby towns like Wachtebeke. It's advisable to check local municipality websites or mapping services for the most up-to-date parking information before your visit.
Are there any cafes or pubs near the gravel trails in Kloosterbos?
Yes, the region around Kloosterbos, including nearby towns, offers various options for refreshments. While specific establishments aren't listed in the route details, you can often find cafes and pubs in the villages surrounding the forest, perfect for a break before or after your ride.
What do other gravel bikers enjoy most about the no-traffic trails in Kloosterbos?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, traffic-free nature of the trails, the diverse forest scenery, and the natural sandy paths that provide an engaging gravel biking experience. The sense of immersion in nature and the well-maintained network of paths are frequently highlighted.
Are there any longer no-traffic gravel routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders looking for a longer challenge, routes like the Frans Coppensbrug – Stekense Canal loop from Zelzate offer a substantial ride of over 76 km. These routes often connect different forest areas and towpaths, providing varied terrain and extended distances away from traffic.
Can I connect to other cycling networks from Kloosterbos?
Yes, Kloosterbos is part of a larger network of walking and cycling routes. It connects to neighboring areas like Stropersbos and Heidebos, which were historically part of a vast forest and heathland. This integration allows for longer, more varied rides that can incorporate different types of terrain, including extensive gravel sections.
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