The 5 Most Beautiful Cycling Routes in the Campines

The Campine, a vast, lush region stretching between Belgium and the southern Netherlands, is a true paradise for cyclists. With more than 2,000 kilometers of bike paths, pine forests as far as the eye can see, vast expanses of wild heathland, and a dense network of canals, it’s the perfect place to explore nature. For fans of refurbished e-bikes, this region is particularly ideal: the trails here are mostly flat to slightly rolling, well-paved, and often pleasantly sheltered from motor vehicle traffic.

Have you just found what you're looking for at Upway These routes are perfect for memorable first rides. In this article, we'll introduce you to the must-ride routes in the Campines, selected based on reviews from passionate cyclists.

Key points to remember

• An ideal setting for e-bikes: The mostly flat terrain and well-maintained trails make the Campines a destination accessible to cyclists of all skill levels.
• An exceptional variety: You’ll effortlessly transition from quiet forests and peaceful lakes to unique experiences like the famous “Fietsen door de Bomen” (Cycling Through the Trees) trail.
• Flexible distances: Whether it’s a short 24-km loop or a full day’s ride of 60 km, the network of waypoints lets you tailor each route to your current preferences.

1. The Brabant Campines and the Eight Beatitudes

This route clearly stands out as the most popular among local cyclists on Komoot, with an impressive rating of 4.7 out of 5. You’ll ride through a very varied landscape, ranging from open fields to shady forests in the Dutch part of the Campine region. On an electric hybrid bike, it’s a smooth and particularly enjoyable ride.

• Who it's for: Cyclists who enjoy diverse landscapes and charming little villages.
• Difficulty: Moderate (mainly due to the distance; a good basic level of fitness is helpful if riding without assistance, but with an e-bike, it’s a real pleasure).
• Duration: About 3 hours and 5 minutes.
• Distance: 50.0 km.

2. The Postel Abbey Tour (Border Route)

This route is an absolute must-see. You’ll cycle through quiet forests, along straight canals, and pass by the majestic and serene Postel Abbey, founded in 1140. The unique border region between the Netherlands and Belgium is at the heart of this ride. You can choose between a long day of cycling or a shorter southern loop. Be sure to take a break to enjoy an abbey beer or stop by the famous Bateau aux crêpes in Dessel.

• Who it's for: Foodies, culture lovers, and nature enthusiasts.
• Difficulty: Moderate. 80% of the trails are car-free and well-paved.
• Duration: About 3 hours and 20 minutes.
• Distance: Full loop of 49.4 to 56 km, or a shorter, family-friendly loop of 27 km.

3. Cycling Among the Trees in Bosland

A route that literally takes your e-bike adventure to new heights! You’ll ride through Bosland National Park, Flanders’ largest contiguous forest area. The highlight of the tour is the legendary “Fietsen door de Bomen” trail in Lommel, where you’ll cycle safely among the treetops. Along the way, you’ll also pass impressive sand dunes and the peaceful German military cemetery.

A refurbished e-bike is ideal for getting to this park: the fully paved trails are perfect for any type of e-bike.

• Who it's for: Families and hikers looking for a truly unique cycling experience.
• Difficulty: Easy (ideal for everyone thanks to the high-quality surfaces).
• Duration: About 2 to 2½ hours.
• Distance: ± 36 km.

4. The Kalmthout Heath Trail

This route exudes serenity. You’ll cycle around the town of Kalmthout and pass through stunning wild moors and deep forests. The beautiful bike path through the heathland is a true work of art, especially in late summer when the purple flowers are in full bloom. You’re free to choose how far you want to go: several variations of the loop are available in the region.

• Who it's for: Those who love peace and quiet and nature and want to explore the impressive moorland landscape.
• Difficulty: Medium.
• Duration: Depending on the route you choose, expect the hike to take anywhere from 2 hours and 30 minutes to more than 4 hours.
• Distance: ± 36 km (short version) to 60.2 km (long version).

5. La Cartierheide: A Walk Through the Fields

Are you short on time, or do you prefer to take it easy on your Upway e-bike? Local cyclists love this scenic loop that starts at Cartierheide. You’ll ride on excellent paved trails alongside beautiful open fields, idyllic lakes, and fishing ponds. The ride is short, accessible, and wonderfully leisurely.

• Who it's for: Beginners, families, or anyone looking for a relaxed Sunday outing.
• Difficulty: Easy (suitable for all fitness levels).
• Duration: About 1 hour and 28 minutes.
• Distance: 23.8 km.

Make the most of your e-bike ride in the Campines

Smart Battery Management in Open Heathlands

Even though the Campine region is mostly flat, the wind can be strong in open areas like the Kalmthout heath. In these open, windy areas, don’t hesitate to switch to a higher assistance level on your refurbished e-bike. As soon as you’re back in the shelter of the dense pine forests, switch back to eco mode. This way, you’ll maximize your range and easily cover distances of over 50 kilometers on a single charge!

tires pressure tires for the sandy roads of the Campines

Many trails are beautifully paved, but some natural paths pass through areas where sand has accumulated on the surface, as is typical in heathland. By slightly lowering your tires pressure, you increase your contact patch. This gives you a little more traction and confidence as you enjoy the scenery on your e-bike. For rides on mixed terrain, an electric hybrid bike is particularly well-suited.

The 5 Most Beautiful Routes at a Glance

Frequently asked questions

1. How many bike routes are there in the Campines?

The selection is huge! On platforms like Komoot alone, there are more than 60 specific tourist routes, and the region has a total of more than 2,000 kilometers of bike paths with a highly flexible network of connection points.

2. Are the Campines a good destination for beginner e-bike riders?

Absolutely. More than 40 routes are rated “easy.” The terrain is flat to very gently rolling, and many of the roads are free of car traffic, making for a pleasant and safe ride for beginners and families. To choose the model that’s best for you, check out our selection of refurbished e-bikes.

3. When is the best time to go biking in the Campines?

The Campine region is beautiful practically all year round, but spring and fall are absolutely ideal. When the purple heather is in bloom, the views are breathtaking. In summer, the pine forests provide welcome shade.

4. Are there places to eat or recharge along the way?

Yes, the cycling infrastructure in the Campines is fantastic. On virtually every route, you’ll pass through charming villages, stop by inviting outdoor cafes (such as the Brug 4 cycling café or the Café de Bosrand), and visit historic sites like Postel Abbey with its abbey shop. Perfect for a coffee break!

5. Does the region offer any unique or unusual cycling experiences?

Absolutely! The Campine region is known for its innovative projects. You can literally get a bird’s-eye view with “Fietsen door de Bomen” in Bosland, or discover the iconic wooden bridge on the “Fietsen door de Heide” route in the Hoge Campine National Park. To explore even more beautiful bike routes in Belgium, check out our other blog posts as well.

Written by: Hanna Stevens | Published on: June 17, 2025 | 4-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.