The 5 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in Ghent
Ghent is one of Europe’s largest car-free zones. In recent years, the city has made a strong commitment to cyclists. Add to that the beautiful waterways of the Lys and the Scheldt, and you have flat terrain that’s ideal for cycling. For those who want to explore the region comfortably and sustainably, a refurbished Upway e-bike is the perfect solution. Thanks to the electric assist, long rides become a breeze, and you can fully enjoy the natural scenery, historic castles, and inviting outdoor cafes around the city.
Here's the ultimate guide to the best routes for your next e-bike adventure.
Key Takeaways
- An ideal setting: Ghent and its surroundings offer a unique blend of flat, quiet roads, a rich cultural heritage, and stunning waterfront scenery.
- Perfect for e-bikes: thanks to the mostly paved paths, the routes are accessible to all cyclists. With an e-bike, you can effortlessly cover distances ranging from 30 to 60 km.
- Versatility guaranteed: whether you're traveling with your family, exploring castles, or hopping from one terrace to the next, there's always an itinerary that's right for you.
1. The Lys River Route
Distance: 52.5 km | Duration: About 3 hours | Difficulty: Intermediate | Who it's for: Families, culture lovers
This is undoubtedly one of the most popular routes in the East Flanders region. Between Ghent and Deinze, you’ll pass through the picturesque Lys Valley, a landscape that has inspired many renowned artists. Via the Maaigemdijk, you’ll ride along the banks of the Oude Leie and discover points of interest such as the Astene manual lock and the magnificent Renaissance castle in Ooidonk. The route is 89% paved, making it perfect for a nearly new e-bike.
2. The Bergeend Route
Distance: 52.1 km | Duration: About 3 hours 5 minutes | Difficulty: Intermediate | Who it's for: Nature and history lovers
This route makes the most of the Scheldt and the surrounding nature. You’ll start off gently at the Blaarmeersen, a pleasant green space in Ghent, before cycling toward the wetlands of Meersen in Gentbrugge. Along the way, you’ll alternate between birdwatching and delving into history, passing by the stunning 14th-century Laarne Castle and the center of Wetteren. The route is 96% paved, making it a real pleasure to ride on an e-bike.
3. The Ghent Green Hubs Route
Distance: 33.5 km | Duration: About 2 hours | Difficulty: Easy to intermediate | Who it's for: Beginners and families
Would you rather stay close to the city while still enjoying nature? This route is perfect for you. Starting from the heart of Ghent, you’ll head through Keizerspark and Portus Ganda straight to the city’s green spaces. You’ll follow the towpath along the Scheldt, passing through the Meersen de Gentbrugge and the beautiful Parkbos de Zwijnaarde. As a reward, take a break in Melle at the brewery of the famous Delirium Tremens. The route is entirely paved—ideal for families.
4. The Terrace Trail between the Lys and the Scheldt
Distance: 55.7 km | Duration: About 2 hours 50 minutes | Difficulty: Intermediate | Who it's for: Friends, couples, foodies
As soon as the first rays of spring appear, this route is a must. The concept is as simple as it is brilliant: get some fresh air on your bike and discover the best spots between the Lys and the Scheldt. You’ll start at the Blaarmeersen and pass through picturesque towns like Sint-Martens-Latem, Nazareth, and De Pinte, before returning to Ghent feeling satisfied. With your long-range e-bike set to light assistance mode, it’s pure joy. 94% of the route is paved.
5. The Route Along the Waterways of Ghent
Distance: 14.1 km | Duration: Less than an hour | Difficulty: Very easy | Who it's for: Tourists and young families
Are you short on time, or would you like to combine cycling with a city trip? This short route is your trusted guide through the “water paradise” that is Ghent. It takes you along Watersport Lake, the Lys, the Nederschelde, and the Lieve. Highlights include the STAM, the Gravensteen, the charming Patershol neighborhood, and the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve. With 98% of the route paved, this route is suitable for everyone, including cyclists who want to learn more about the best Belgian e-bike brands.
Getting the Most Out of Your Battery in the Flemish Wind
For routes longer than 50 km—such as the Bergeend or the Lys Route—you’ll often be riding through the flat landscape of the Flemish polders, where the wind can make things quite difficult. A common mistake among beginners is to always ride in the highest assistance mode. Here’s how to maximize your range:
- Play around with the gears: Many people forget to shift gears on an e-bike. Shift down when riding into the wind or uphill; a higher cadence is more efficient for a mid-drive motor (Bosch or Shimano) and saves a lot of battery life.
- Use "Eco" or "Tour" mode on flat stretches: the roads around Ghent are so flat that the light pedal assistance is more than enough.
- Make sure to inflate your tires properly tires tires significantly increase rolling resistance and can reduce your range by up to 15%. Aim for 3.5 to 4 bars, depending on your tire type. Practical tips are also available in our guide on how to manage your energy when riding an e-bike.
Comparison Table of Routes
| Itinerary | Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Lys | 52,5 km | 3:00 | Intermediate | Families, Culture |
| Mallard | 52,1 km | 3:05 | Intermediate | Nature, History |
| Green Hubs | 33,5 km | 2:00 | Easy / Intermediate | Beginners, families |
| Lys & Escaut Terraces | 55,7 km | 2 hours 50 minutes | Intermediate | Friends, couples |
| Ghent Waters | 14,1 km | < 1 h | Very easy | Tourists, families |
Frequently asked questions
Is the area around Ghent suitable for beginner cyclists?
Absolutely. The terrain around Ghent is flat, and the network of safe bike paths is very well developed. More than 1,300 tourist routes around Ghent are classified as easy.
When is the best time to go cycling in Ghent?
Although the paved trails are accessible year-round, spring and summer (April through September) are the best times to visit. Nature is in full bloom, and the many outdoor dining areas along the roads are open.
Where can I easily start my itinerary?
There are several accessible starting points to choose from. Many routes, such as the Bergeend and the Terrace Route, begin at the Blaarmeersen Recreation Area. Other popular starting points include the Ghent-Sint-Pieters station, La Coupure, and Portus Ganda.
Are there any routes that are especially suitable for children?
Absolutely! Ghent is an exceptionally family-friendly city. There are special routes for children, including one through the Meersen de Gentbrugge—with games and a photo scavenger hunt—and another from downtown to the Blaarmeersen swimming lake.
Are there any historic castles along these routes?
Yes, the Ghent region is steeped in history. Depending on your route, you’ll pass by impressive centuries-old monuments. The 14th-century Laarne Castle and the splendid Renaissance Ooidonk Castle are among the best-known sites you can admire from the saddle.
Written by: Hanna Stevens | Published on: June 24, 2026 | 5-minute read
About the Author: Hanna Stevens
Hanna is a cycling enthusiast who loves discovering new routes and sharing her experiences to inspire more people to get around by bike.