The best traffic-free bike rides around Hechtel-Eksel
4.4
(29)
1,746
riders
40
rides
No traffic road cycling routes around Hechtel-Eksel traverse a predominantly wooded and green landscape, characteristic of the Bosland region. The area features unique cycling infrastructure, such as the "Cycling Through The Trees" experience, which allows cyclists to ride among the canopy. The broader Kempen region, encompassing Hechtel-Eksel, is defined by its heathland and sandy soils, offering varied terrain for road cyclists. This environment provides a network of routes suitable for exploring natural beauty without vehicle traffic.
Best no traffic road cycling routes around Hechtel-Eksel
- The most popular no traffic road cycling route is Recreation Area 't Fonteintje – Lage Kempenweg Cycle Path loop from Eksel, a 29.9 miles (48.1 km) trail that takes 2 hours 9 minutes to complete, passing through varied landscapes and open fields.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Zuid-Willemsvaart Canal – View of the Fields loop from Eksel, a moderate 34.4 miles (55.3 km) path. This route offers views along the canal and through expansive fields, providing a tranquil cycling experience.
- Local road cyclists also love the Along the Meadows – Homemade Ice Cream Food Stall loop from Hechtel, a 28.6 miles (46.1 km) trail leading through open meadows and rural settings, often completed in about 2 hours 4 minutes.
- Road cycling around Hechtel-Eksel is defined by extensive woodlands, heathland, and the innovative "Cycling Through The Trees" path. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to more moderate distances.
- The routes in Hechtel-Eksel are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. More than 1,800 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Hechtel-Eksel's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 14, 2026
4.7
(11)
349
riders
48.1km
02:09
120m
120m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
4.7
(3)
171
riders
55.5km
02:48
90m
90m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Sign up for free
4.5
(4)
143
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
92
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4.0
(1)
78
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Hechtel-Eksel
Other adventures around Hechtel-Eksel
Tips from the Community
'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.
0
0
The recreation area is known to many as "het (Koersels) kapelleke" (the Koersels chapel), as it grew around the chapel of Our Lady of the Stakes and has been a place of pilgrimage since 1826. The observation tower is the focal point of this wooded area. Anyone who climbs the nearly 30-meter-high tower can look out over the typical Kempen landscape. The area includes a playground, minigolf, trick pin courts, a splash pond, and numerous beautiful camping sites for youth clubs. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy an orienteering run. The hiking opportunities are endless. Source and more: https://www.beringen.be/recreatie-t-fonteintje Admission to the playground, observation tower, and splash pond is free. Open from the beginning of the Easter holidays until the end of the autumn holidays. Opening hours at https://www.visitberingen.be/fonteintje
3
0
Centrally located in this wooded area, the tower offers an excellent panoramic view of the Kempen landscape. At the foot of the tower is a playground with drinks and snacks. Fun for all ages.
6
0
First-class wide path through the NSG Grote Netevallei, top surface
1
0
"False flat" in the forest. Motor vehicles are allowed to use the gravel road
2
0
In the 14th-15th century, a new Gothic church was built in Reppel, with a two-aisled nave of two bays. This Gothic church was made entirely of marlstone. The western tower has two sections under a constricted spire (slate). The substructure and plinth are made of fairly roughly hewn limestone blocks. In 1790, the three naves were placed under one roof; the southern nave had already been widened and built of brick. Only the western tower and the choir remain of this small Gothic church. In 1925, under the pastorate of C. Lenaers, the nave of the old church was demolished according to a design by architect J. Deré, and a new nave was built perpendicular to the original orientation, between the tower and the choir, with a choir on the northern side. The church is located within the walled churchyard. The new church is a two-bay cruciform church, with a straight bay choir and three-sided closure. Saddle roofs (slate). Brick plinth with natural stone trim. Pointed arch windows in a profiled brick and natural stone frame, with natural stone tracery. The straight choir bay is blind. Sacristies on both sides of the choir. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Parish Church of Saint Willibrordus, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/70775
5
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many no-traffic road cycling routes are available in Hechtel-Eksel?
Hechtel-Eksel offers nearly 50 dedicated no-traffic road cycling routes. These routes are designed for a smooth and enjoyable experience away from vehicular traffic, with 8 routes rated as easy and 38 as moderate, catering to various fitness levels.
What makes road cycling in Hechtel-Eksel unique?
Hechtel-Eksel is renowned for its innovative cycling infrastructure, most notably the 'Cycling Through The Trees' experience within Bosland. This unique path allows you to cycle 10 meters high through the forest canopy. The region, part of Bosland, also offers extensive wooded and heathland landscapes, providing a serene backdrop for traffic-free rides.
Are there any easy no-traffic road cycling routes suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are 8 easy no-traffic road cycling routes in Hechtel-Eksel. A great option is the Cycling through the Trees – Beverlo Canal loop from Eksel, which is approximately 40 km long and offers a gentle ride through scenic landscapes, including the famous 'Cycling Through The Trees' section.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Hechtel-Eksel?
The no-traffic road cycling routes in Hechtel-Eksel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from 21 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the unique 'Cycling Through The Trees' experience, and the beautiful, varied landscapes of the Bosland region.
Can I find circular no-traffic road cycling routes in Hechtel-Eksel?
Yes, many of the no-traffic road cycling routes in Hechtel-Eksel are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Recreation Area 't Fonteintje – Lage Kempenweg Cycle Path loop from Eksel (48 km) and the Along the Meadows – Homemade Ice Cream Food Stall loop from Hechtel (46 km).
What kind of terrain can I expect on these no-traffic routes?
The terrain in Hechtel-Eksel and the broader Kempen region is generally flat with gentle undulations, characterized by heathland and sandy soils. The routes are predominantly on paved surfaces suitable for road bikes, offering smooth riding conditions. Elevation gains are minimal, making for a less strenuous experience.
Are there any interesting landmarks or natural features to see along the routes?
Absolutely. Beyond the famous 'Cycling Through The Trees', you can explore various natural and historical points of interest. Routes often pass through the extensive Bosland forest, offering glimpses of local history like traditional 'Teuten' houses. You might also encounter highlights such as the De Keiheuvel Sand Dunes or the Canal Trail in Nationaal Park Bosland.
Is 'Cycling Through The Trees' suitable for all ages and skill levels?
Yes, 'Cycling Through The Trees' is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages and skill levels. It's a gentle, gradual ascent to 10 meters high, offering a unique perspective of the forest canopy. It's part of the broader Limburg cycling network and is free to access, making it a perfect family-friendly experience.
Where can I find parking for the no-traffic road cycling routes, especially near 'Cycling Through The Trees'?
Hechtel-Eksel offers various parking options, particularly near popular cycling hubs. For 'Cycling Through The Trees', ample free parking is available at the P1 parking lot at the starting point in Bosland, Hechtel-Eksel, making it convenient to access this iconic attraction and connect to other routes.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the no-traffic routes?
Yes, many routes are designed to pass by or near local amenities. For instance, the Along the Meadows – Homemade Ice Cream Food Stall loop from Hechtel suggests a stop at a local food stall. The region is known for its hospitality, and you'll find cyclist-friendly cafes and pubs in the towns and villages along the extensive network.
What is the best time of year to enjoy no-traffic road cycling in Hechtel-Eksel?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for road cycling in Hechtel-Eksel, with mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be excellent, though it's advisable to cycle earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the warmest part of the day. The region's natural beauty, especially in Bosland, is captivating year-round.
Are there any routes that pass by canals or water features?
Yes, several routes incorporate the region's waterways. The Zuid-Willemsvaart Canal – View of the Fields loop from Eksel offers scenic stretches alongside the canal. Additionally, the Cycling through the Trees – Beverlo Canal loop from Eksel also features sections along the Beverlo Canal, providing tranquil waterside views.
Most popular routes around Hechtel-Eksel
Most popular attractions around Hechtel-Eksel
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Road cycling routes in other regions.
