The best cycling routes around Forest
4.4
(121)
1,389
riders
50
rides
Touring cycling routes around Forest are characterized by a mix of urban green spaces, extensive forest paths, and canal-side trails. The region features relatively gentle elevations, making it accessible for various cycling abilities. Natural features include the Sonian Forest, Bois de la Cambre, and sections along the Charleroi-Brussels Canal. These routes offer a blend of natural tranquility and urban connectivity.
Best touring cycling routes around Forest
- The most popular touring cycling route is Charleroi-Brussels Canal – Hospices Bridge loop from Forest-Midi - Vorst-Zuid, a 10.1 miles (16.2 km) trail that takes 1 hour to complete. This easy route follows canal paths and passes through urban green areas.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Sonian Forest Path – Lake in the Bois de la Cambre loop from Albert, a moderate 16.6 miles (26.8 km) path. This route navigates through dense forest and offers views of the lake in Bois de la Cambre.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bois de la Cambre – Lake in the Bois de la Cambre loop from Albert, a 8.7 miles (13.9 km) trail leading through Bois de la Cambre, often completed in about 50 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Forest is defined by extensive forest paths, tranquil canal routes, and urban parklands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more moderate distances.
- The routes in Forest are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 110 reviews. More than 1,300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Forest's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
4.5
(11)
321
riders
13.9km
00:49
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(17)
176
riders
23.7km
01:25
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(3)
74
riders
45.2km
03:04
350m
350m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(3)
72
riders
16.7km
01:03
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(14)
50
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This tour goes for kilometers through the forest. In spring it is beautiful with the hyacinths and wood anemones. In summer nice and cool.
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Kiosk where you can dance, sing, ...
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I was pleasantly surprised here: a former road through the forest is now a paradise for cyclists and pedestrians. I can't imagine cars there.👍🙏😜🚴
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It's great to ride up there.
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Old asphalt in the forest. Could be a better surface.
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It's a shame the bike path could be better. It's not ideal with luggage. Narrow and noisy along the road, but more of a mountain bike trail at the edge of the forest.
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Great park and even better bike paths on the old road.
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Perfect place for road training, completely closed to traffic. There are three main loops starting from the kiosk at the Carrefour des Attelages: - a large loop of about 2.6km, which follows the road around the Bois - a smaller one of about 1.85km, which also follows the road, but closer to the pond by turning onto Avenue des Genêts at the Woodpecker refreshment bar - a small loop of about 1.45km which follows the path around the pond as close as possible from the Chalet Robinson landing stage. This can be muddy in places depending on the weather.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Forest?
There are over 45 touring cycling routes around Forest, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy urban green space loops, moderate forest paths, and routes along the Charleroi-Brussels Canal.
What do other cyclists enjoy most about touring cycling in Forest?
The touring cycling routes in Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 110 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of tranquil forest paths, urban green spaces, and canal-side trails, which provide a peaceful yet connected cycling experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Forest?
Touring cycling routes around Forest feature a mix of urban green spaces, extensive forest paths, and canal-side trails. The region generally has relatively gentle elevations, making it accessible for various cycling abilities. You'll encounter diverse landscapes, from dense woodlands like the Sonian Forest to open areas along waterways.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Forest?
Yes, Forest offers 15 easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. These routes typically follow flat canal paths or gentle park trails. An excellent option is the Bois de la Cambre – Lake in the Bois de la Cambre loop from Albert, an 8.7-mile (13.9 km) trail through Bois de la Cambre.
Are there more challenging touring cycling routes in Forest?
For those seeking a bit more challenge, Forest has 7 difficult touring cycling routes. These routes often cover longer distances and may include more varied terrain or slightly steeper ascents within the forest areas. You can find a range of moderate to difficult options to test your endurance.
Can I find routes that pass by lakes or water features in Forest?
Yes, many routes in Forest incorporate beautiful water features. For instance, the Sonian Forest Path – Lake in the Bois de la Cambre loop from Albert offers views of the lake in Bois de la Cambre. You can also explore highlights like the Drowned Children Ponds or Boitsfort Ponds, which are often accessible via cycling paths.
Are there any historical sites or castles accessible by bike around Forest?
Absolutely. The region around Forest is home to several historical castles that can be reached by bike. Notable attractions include Gaasbeek Castle, Groenenberg Castle, and Coloma Estate. These offer great destinations for a touring cycling trip, combining nature with cultural exploration.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Forest?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Forest are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Charleroi-Brussels Canal – Hallerbos wildlife overpass loop from Forest-Est - Vorst-Oost, which offers a moderate 23.9-mile (38.5 km) ride.
What are the main natural features or forests I'll encounter?
The primary natural features for touring cyclists in Forest include the extensive Sonian Forest, the picturesque Bois de la Cambre, and the scenic Charleroi-Brussels Canal. These areas provide a rich environment for observing diverse ecosystems and wildlife, offering a peaceful escape from urban life.
Can I expect to see wildlife on the touring cycling routes?
Cycling through the forests and along the canals in Forest provides opportunities for wildlife observation. The varied ecosystems, especially in areas like the Sonian Forest, support diverse wildlife. Early morning or dusk rides are often the best times to spot animals.
Are there routes that focus on forest paths?
Yes, many routes emphasize the region's extensive forest paths. The Zonienwald (Sonian Forest) – Sonian Forest Path loop from Albert is a great example, offering a 18.3-mile (29.5 km) moderate ride deep into the Sonian Forest, providing an immersive natural experience.
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