6 Cycling Tours & Destinations in Belgium

Belgium, a Western European country, is best known for its rich history and mediaeval towns, which houses art-nouveau buildings of ancient Renaissance architecture. The harmonious fusion of art and culture makes Belgium one of the most-visited countries in Europe.

Over the years, cycling around its cities has become the standard and popular way of discovering all the attractions of Belgium.

So, if you want to learn more about cycling in Belgium, continue reading!

Here is a list of some of the best cycling-friendly destinations in Belgium and all the relevant details you might require.

1. Antwerp

The largest city in the country, Antwerp, is a stunning place and a perfect cycling holiday destination in Belgium. It held the distinction of being one of the top 3 bike-friendly cities in Europe in 2019.

You can pedal your way through the beautiful lanes around the waterfront of the long River Scheldt in this city. After an adventurous ride, pull up at the local eateries in Hoogstraten and indulge in the famous gourmet dishes of Belgium.

• Distance: 137 km
• Route: Essays of Gravel Route, starting from Amsterdamstraat till Lion’s Mound Hill
• Activities: Photography and sightseeing
• Best Time: May to September

2. Brussels

Brussels, the capital of Belgium, offers a feast of delights to several cyclists. If you are looking for a spectacular ride, a getaway to Brussels is ideal for you. A Belgium cycling tour in this city covers several UNESCO World Heritage Sites and renowned landmarks.

The city offers a striking backdrop to all cyclists pedalling their way to Bruges. Besides, the roads of this urban city are in perfect condition and are welcome for cycling enthusiasts who also love photography.

• Distance: 173 km
• Route: Barbara's Belgian Odyssey Route, from Brussels to Bruges
• Activities: Photography and sightseeing
• Best Time: February to May

3. Ghent

The 4th largest city in Belgium, Ghent, is one of the country's popular tourist destinations. Its gothic landmarks lure millions of tourists to visit Ghent. Moreover, this city is commonly renowned for housing spectacular museums of Flemish architecture.

A cycling tour around Ghent is the best way to explore such destinations while learning more about its culture. You can enjoy a peaceful ride or a walk along the River Leie and visit some beautiful villages of Machelen and Deinze on your way.

• Distance: 14.5 km
• Route: Canal Ghent Route, a cycling loop starting from and circling back to Gent-Sint-Pieters Station
• Activities: Photography and sightseeing near the picturesque banks of River Leie
• Best Time: June to October

4. Mechelen

Lying between Brussels and Antwerp, Mechelen is the centre of Flemish art and heritage in Belgium. This city falls on the itinerary list of tourists as it houses some critical cultural attractions like St. Rumbold's Cathedral and Kazerne Dossin Memorial. T

he cycling roads are well-connected and allow tourists to discover this city's interests in minimum time. Lastly, you can end your tour by tasting authentic Belgian beer at its most popular brewery.

• Distance: 58 km
• Route: Gouden Carolus Route, starting from Het Anker Brewery in Mechelen and ending near Molenberg Whiskey Distillery
• Activities: Visit the nearby brewery and enjoy the beautiful landscape views of the River Nete
• Best Time: June to September

5. Ypres

Ypres is an ancient Belgian city located in West Flanders. Another addition to the list of cycling routes in Belgium, the Peace Cycle Route is famous among cyclists. This route follows a straight path adjacent to Ypres Salient, stretching out and connecting all the historic locations.

You can enjoy a smooth ride in this city while learning more about its history. A cycling tour in this city is perfect for lovers of heritage and adventure enthusiasts.

• Distance: 45 km
• Route: Peace Cycle Route, a cycling loop starting from and curling back to Ypres Grot Markt Square
• Activities: Visit the famous museum, In Flanders Fields and the First World War cemeteries, including the largest Tyne Cot Cemetery
• Best Time: May to October

6. Bruges

Another go-to-place for cycling in Belgium, Bruges is best known as one of Europe's best-preserved, fairy-tale-like cities. This city is full of several picturesque villages and exquisite mediaeval architecture. Starting from Bruges, this cycling route offers a paved path along the cities of Torhout and Oostkamp.

Most of its roads are dotted with grand castles and chateaus. You can also take a halt at Beisbroek and explore the beautiful gardens in its surroundings.

• Distance:  52 km
• Route: Castle Triangle
• Activities: Visit Castle Loppem and participate in fun scavenger hunts organised at Wijnendale Castle
• Best Time: June and August