The best traffic-free bike rides around Diepenbeek
4.5
(83)
5,394
riders
99
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Road cycling around Diepenbeek benefits from its integration into the Limburg cycling network, offering a variety of no traffic road cycling routes. The region features diverse landscapes, including the expansive De Wijers pond area, the tranquil grounds of Herkenrode Abbey, and open heathlands. Terrain is generally flat to gently rolling, providing accessible cycling conditions. These routes often utilize well-paved paths, suitable for road bikes seeking car-free experiences.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Diepenbeek
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is The old railroad – Cycling through the Trees loop from Diepenbeek, a 59.6 miles (95.9 km) trail that takes 4 hours 12 minutes to complete. This route incorporates sections of the "Cycling through the Trees" experience, offering scenic, car-free paths.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Alden Biesen Gatehouse – Floating Chapel of Helshoven loop from Diepenbeek, a difficult 68.7 miles (110.6 km) path. This route traverses varied terrain, connecting historical landmarks with open landscapes.
- Local road cyclists also love the Oud-Rekem Historic Centre – Broekmolenweg loop from Diepenbeek, a 34.3 miles (55.2 km) trail leading through historical centers and rural areas, often completed in about 2 hours 27 minutes.
- Road cycling around Diepenbeek is defined by the De Wijers pond area, the paths around Herkenrode Abbey, and connections to the broader Limburg cycling network. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to different ability levels.
- The routes in Diepenbeek are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from more than 70 reviews. More than 4,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Diepenbeek's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 14, 2026
4.6
(7)
351
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
169
riders
111km
05:10
660m
660m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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151
riders
76.1km
03:14
210m
210m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.4
(5)
132
riders
54.3km
02:22
180m
180m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.9
(8)
695
riders
46.4km
02:01
80m
80m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Diepenbeek
Tips from the Community
The history of the Abdijhoeve in Kelchterhoef dates back to 1228, when Count Arnold IV of Loon donated the area to the Abbey of Floreffe. The Norbertines built the farm there for agriculture and fish farming. Since 1978 it has been protected as a monument and nowadays it serves as a catering establishment.
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The bicycle bridge consists of 6 bridge sections, which together contain more than 500 tons of steel. The largest bridge section is 44 meters long and weighs 130 tons. The complete bicycle bridge is 200 meters long and 6 meters wide. You cycle or walk 10 meters above the water surface.
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Between Diepenbeek and Hasselt, the F70 cycle highway, also known as the Demerroute, runs along the bank of the Demer river. This cycle highway, which is under construction, connects Hasselt with Bilzen. When completed, the route will be 21 km long. It is already largely passable, but diversions are currently in place in a few locations.
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in exceptionally warm weather, lovely in the shade
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At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view over the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area. “Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden work of art consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was hit by the cherry plague virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits on cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The work of art symbolizes the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.
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Here we mainly find meadows and grasslands, interspersed with valuable groves. Intensive management through deforestation and mowing has restored the rich flora of yesteryear. Currently, the following plants can be found among others: wood anemone, dandelion, lily of the valley, cranesbill, muskroot, lady's mantle, and Jacob's ladder. Birds are also abundant here: tawny owl, little owl, lapwing, chiffchaff, hoopoe, willow warbler, bluethroat, reed bunting, and many others. The area is freely accessible, but there are no marked hiking trails.
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'Fietsen door de bomen' in National Park Bosland is located at junction 272 of the cycle network in nature reserve Pijnven, which is itself part of the dense forest landscape of National Park Bosland. The poles supporting the cycle path symbolize the straight trunks of the pine trees in the forest where it is located. This ensures that the construction blends beautifully into the surroundings. The forests of Pijnven consist mainly of conifers that were planted decades ago for timber production for mining. However, with the closure of the Limburg coal mines, these trees were never felled.
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The cycle path through the water leads cyclists over a 212-meter-long and three-meter-wide concrete path, with water at eye level on both sides. Swans and other waterfowl swim along the banks, curiously watching the cyclists. Since its opening, interest in this unique cycle path has been enormous. On average, 800 visitors per day explore this unforgettable part of the Limburg cycle network, with peaks on Saturdays and Sundays, and on some days even up to 5,000 cyclists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available around Diepenbeek?
There are over 100 no-traffic road cycling routes around Diepenbeek, offering a wide variety of options for cyclists seeking quiet and scenic rides. Most of these routes are of moderate difficulty, with a good selection of easy and challenging options as well.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the no-traffic road cycling routes in Diepenbeek?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Diepenbeek primarily feature well-paved surfaces, making them ideal for road bikes. You'll cycle through diverse landscapes, including the expansive pond area of De Wijers, the serene paths around Herkenrode Abbey, and the open heathlands of De Teut and Tenhaagdoornheide Nature Reserve. The region is known for its generally flat to gently rolling terrain, characteristic of the Limburg cycling network.
Are there any challenging no-traffic road cycling routes in Diepenbeek?
Yes, for those seeking a more demanding ride, Diepenbeek offers several challenging no-traffic road cycling routes. An example is the Alden Biesen Gatehouse – Floating Chapel of Helshoven loop, which covers over 110 km with significant elevation gain. You can explore this route here: Alden Biesen Gatehouse – Floating Chapel of Helshoven loop from Diepenbeek.
Can I find easy, car-free road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Diepenbeek?
Absolutely. Diepenbeek has a selection of easy, car-free road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed ride. These routes typically feature minimal elevation and well-maintained paths, allowing for an enjoyable experience through the scenic Limburg landscape.
Are there circular no-traffic road cycling routes available from Diepenbeek?
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes around Diepenbeek are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. The region is well-integrated into the Limburg cycling network, with 'Fietsknooppunt 100' at Demerstrand serving as a convenient starting point for various themed cycling loops.
What natural features and landmarks can I see along the no-traffic road cycling routes in Diepenbeek?
You'll encounter a wealth of natural beauty and historical landmarks. Highlights include the unique pond landscape of De Platwijers-Wijvenheide Nature Reserve, the tranquil grounds of Herkenrode Abbey Site, and the expansive De Teut and Tenhaagdoornheide Nature Reserve. Many routes also pass by picturesque ponds, such as those at Natuurdomein Klaverberg.
Is it possible to experience "Cycling through Water" on a no-traffic road cycling route near Diepenbeek?
Yes, the world-renowned "Cycling through Water" experience near Bokrijk is easily accessible from Diepenbeek and is part of the broader Limburg cycling network. This unique path allows you to cycle directly through a pond, offering a truly immersive natural encounter. While not a specific route in this guide, it's a highlight often incorporated into longer rides in the area.
Where can I park my car when starting a no-traffic road cycling route in Diepenbeek?
A convenient starting point with free long-term parking is at Fietsknooppunt 100 (Cycling Node 100) located at Demerstrand in Diepenbeek. This central hub provides easy access to numerous cycling routes.
Are there facilities for cyclists, like bike service points, in Diepenbeek?
Yes, Fietsknooppunt 100 at Demerstrand offers a bike service point equipped for minor repairs and electric bike charging, ensuring you have support for your ride.
What do other road cyclists enjoy the most about road cycling in Diepenbeek?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.49 stars. Reviewers often praise the extensive and well-maintained cycling infrastructure, the peaceful, car-free paths, and the diverse natural landscapes, from the serene pond areas to the open heathlands, making for a truly enjoyable and varied cycling experience.
Are there any routes that take me along canals or rivers without traffic?
Yes, you can find routes that follow waterways with minimal traffic. For instance, the Bridge Over the Albert Canal – Albert Canal loop offers a pleasant ride alongside the Albert Canal. You can find more details here: Bridge Over the Albert Canal – Albert Canal loop from Diepenbeek.
Can I find routes that pass through historical villages or towns?
Certainly. Many routes in the Diepenbeek area connect you to charming historical sites. The Oud-Rekem Historic Centre – Broekmolenweg loop is a great example, taking you through the historic center of Oud-Rekem. Explore this route here: Oud-Rekem Historic Centre – Broekmolenweg loop from Diepenbeek.
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