The best cycling routes around Zwalm
4.5
(78)
884
riders
58
rides
Touring cycling around Zwalm offers a dynamic experience through the varied landscape of the Flemish Ardennes. The region is characterized by rolling hills, tranquil river valleys, and historic water mills. Cyclists will find routes winding alongside the Zwalm River and through charming villages. The terrain includes both gentle gradients and more challenging climbs, providing diverse options for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Zwalm
- The most popular touring cycling route is 3rd Foot Hunters Bridge – Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve loop from Sint-Denijs-Boekel, a 16.2 miles (26.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 34 minutes to complete. This easy route explores the Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Zwalm River – Scheldt River loop from Munkzwalm, an easy 18.9 miles (30.4 km) path. This route follows the Zwalm River to the Scheldt River, offering scenic waterside views.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Bostmolen Watermill – Zwalm Region Watermills loop from Munkzwalm, a 23.1 miles (37.2 km) trail leading through the historic Zwalm Region Watermills, often completed in about 2 hours 19 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Zwalm is defined by rolling hills, tranquil river valleys, and historic water mills. The network offers options for easy, moderate, and difficult routes, catering to various ability levels.
- The routes in Zwalm are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. More than 1,200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Zwalm's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
4.8
(26)
121
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
115
riders
56.5km
03:22
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.0
(3)
76
riders
63.7km
03:53
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
46
riders
97.8km
05:35
170m
170m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
62
riders
24.8km
01:36
320m
320m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Smooth tarmac, but be carefull as nothing will stop you to fall into the canal, particularly for new skateboarders. One part of the track is halas closed for some months now.
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Look carefully because you'll easily miss it
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A practical and smooth connection for cyclists and pedestrians between Flanders and Wallonia.
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The Watermolenroute follows the Leberg downhill. A beautiful descent in contrast to the challenging climb.
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The Mauroy Bridge is one of three movable bridges spanning the canal at Saint-Léger. Each bridge had a bridge keeper's house, where the bridge keeper lived, responsible for opening and closing the bridge each time a ship passed. These houses were often also cafés... or still are, as here. Just beyond the bridge, the old Mauroy farm bordered an imposing castle, the Mauroy Castle, designed by Sanderus in 1644. In 1504, the castle and the Mauroy estate belonged to Arnould de Maulde, a lord of the manor. Source: brochure "Promenade Saint-Léger"
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Even in winter this remains a beautiful place to enjoy
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The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
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beautiful piece of nature so close to Ghent
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Zwalm?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes available in Zwalm, offering a wide variety of experiences through the Flemish Ardennes. These routes cater to different skill levels, from easy riverside paths to more challenging hilly terrain.
What kind of terrain can I expect when cycling in Zwalm?
Zwalm is characterized by the rolling hills of the Flemish Ardennes, tranquil river valleys, and picturesque landscapes. You'll encounter a mix of gentle gradients along the Zwalm River and more challenging climbs, providing a dynamic cycling experience. The region is sometimes referred to as an 'idyllic piece of Switzerland in Flanders' due to its scenic beauty.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or less experienced cyclists?
Yes, Zwalm offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Zwalm River – Scheldt River loop from Munkzwalm is an easy 18.9-mile (30.4 km) path that follows the Zwalm River to the Scheldt River, offering scenic waterside views. Another easy option is the 3rd Foot Hunters Bridge – Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve loop from Sint-Denijs-Boekel, which is 16.2 miles (26.0 km) and explores the Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve.
Are there challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. Zwalm, being part of the Flemish Ardennes, offers routes with significant elevation gain. For a more demanding ride, consider the Scheldt River – Espierres Canal loop from Munkzwalm, a difficult 66.1-mile (106.3 km) route that will test your endurance. The region's terrain is even used for parts of the women's Tour of Flanders race, highlighting its suitability for serious cycling.
What scenic points or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
Zwalm's routes are rich with scenic points and landmarks. You can cycle past numerous historic water mills, such as those featured in the Bostmolen Watermill – Zwalm Region Watermills loop from Munkzwalm. Many routes also pass through charming villages and the tranquil Zwalm Valley. The 3rd Foot Hunters Bridge – Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve loop from Sint-Denijs-Boekel offers views of the Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve.
Can I visit historic castles while cycling in Zwalm?
Yes, the Zwalm area is home to several historic castles that can be explored. Notable examples include Castle The Castle, De Gerlache Castle, and Lozer Castle. Many cycling routes pass near these impressive historical sites, offering opportunities for a cultural stop.
Are there any famous climbs in the Zwalm area?
While Zwalm is part of the broader Flemish Ardennes known for iconic climbs, the immediate vicinity offers challenging ascents. You can find climbs like Taaienberg, Wolvenberg Climb, and Molenberg Climb, which are popular among cyclists seeking a challenge. These hills contribute to the region's reputation as a cycling hotspot.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Zwalm?
Many of the easier routes in Zwalm are suitable for families, especially those that follow the Zwalm River or pass through the Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve. These paths often have gentler gradients and offer pleasant scenery for all ages. Always check the route's difficulty and elevation profile to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about cycling in Zwalm?
The komoot community highly rates the touring cycling experience in Zwalm, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 100 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the region's diverse landscape, which combines rolling hills with tranquil river valleys, and the charm of its historic water mills and villages. The well-maintained network of routes also receives positive feedback.
Are there circular touring cycling routes in Zwalm?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Zwalm are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the 3rd Foot Hunters Bridge – Kaaimeersen Nature Reserve loop from Sint-Denijs-Boekel and the Zwalm River – Scheldt River loop from Munkzwalm. These circular routes make planning your day trip convenient.
Can I find places to eat or drink along the cycling routes?
Yes, Zwalm's charming villages, which many cycling routes pass through, often feature local cafés and pubs. These establishments provide excellent opportunities to stop for a refreshment or a meal, allowing you to experience the local culture and hospitality.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Zwalm?
The spring and autumn months generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Zwalm, with milder temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer can also be enjoyable, though it can be warmer. Winter cycling is possible but may require more preparation for colder weather and potentially wet conditions.
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