The best cycling routes around Geel

Geel offers a vast network for touring cyclists, with over 150 distinct routes. These routes cater to various preferences, traversing the flat, diverse landscapes of the Antwerpse Kempen region.

The area around Geel is characterized by a rich tapestry of natural scenery. You'll cycle through forests, expansive heathlands, and polders, often alongside prominent waterways like the Albert Canal and the Nete valleys. The region is part of the Antwerpse Kempen, known for its characteristic landscapes where nature and human activity coexist.

Yes, Geel is very welcoming for beginner touring cyclists. There are over 95 easy routes available, allowing you to enjoy the scenic flat terrain at a relaxed pace. Many routes are integrated into a system of cycling nodes, making navigation straightforward.

For those seeking a greater challenge, Geel also offers a selection of more difficult touring cycling routes. There are 12 routes categorized as difficult, such as the Thijs Cafe – Fish ladder on the Grote Nete loop from Geel, which covers nearly 50 km. These routes often feature longer distances or slightly more varied terrain.

The months of April and June are particularly popular for cycling in Geel due to favorable weather conditions. Generally, spring and early summer offer pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it an ideal time to explore the region by bike.

Many of the touring cycling routes around Geel are designed as circular loops, allowing you to start and end your journey in the same location. An example is the Junction of Four Canals – Dessel-Turnhout-Schoten Canal loop from Geel, which offers a scenic ride along canal paths.

Geel offers many routes suitable for families, especially given the generally flat terrain. The Kinderboerderij de Heihoeve, a children's farm near the Albert Canal, provides an enjoyable outdoor experience with domestic animals and a playground, making it a great destination for a family cycling trip.

While cycling around Geel, you can discover various points of interest. Natural highlights include the delicate biotopes of the Mosselgoren Nature Reserve and the expansive heathlands of the Kempen region. You might also encounter historical windmills like the Molen van 't Veld or Molen van Larum. For specific natural monuments, consider visiting Footbridge over the Weefberg Pond or The Zwart Water.

Yes, the region around Geel has various cafes and pubs, especially in towns and villages you'll pass through. While specific establishments aren't listed for every route, the integrated cycling node system often guides you through areas with amenities. The Thijs Cafe – Fish ladder on the Grote Nete loop from Geel even has a cafe in its name, indicating a potential stop.

The touring cycling experience in Geel is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 80 reviews. Cyclists often praise the well-integrated network of routes, the diverse landscapes featuring forests, heathlands, and polders, and the scenic canal-side paths that make for enjoyable and varied rides.

Touring cycling routes around Geel vary in length to suit different preferences. For example, the Bedder Mill – Tongerlo Abbey loop from Geel is about 41.4 km, while the Junction of Four Canals – Dessel-Turnhout-Schoten Canal loop from Geel extends to 68.1 km. You can find routes ranging from shorter, easy rides to longer, more challenging excursions.

Absolutely. The Mosselgoren Nature Reserve, known for its delicate biotopes, pools, and rich birdlife, is located near Geel and can be explored by bike. Another significant natural area close by is De Zegge Nature Reserve, offering further opportunities for immersion in nature. The Saint Dimpna Church, Geel – Grote Netewoud loop from Geel specifically explores the Grote Netewoud nature area.