Mountain Biking in Belgium: Where Is It Allowed and What Are the Best Trails?

Racing through the forest over tree roots, mud splashing up, a steep climb followed by a fast descent: mountain biking is one of the most fun ways to experience nature. Belgium has a surprising number of options, from the sandy hills of the Kempen to the steep slopes of the Ardennes. But you can't just ride anywhere. Here's where it's allowed and which trails are worth it.

Where can you go mountain biking?

In Flanders

In Flemish forests and nature reserves, cyclists can't just take any path. For each area, an access regulation determines where cyclists are allowed. The safest choice is simple: follow the waymarked mountain bike trails. Then you know for sure you're riding on permitted paths.

Sport Vlaanderen has built a network of more than 8,000 km of off-road trails:

• Loop trails of different lengths and difficulty.
• Marathon trails of at least 80 km for those who want to ride all day.
• Technical zones such as bike parks and skills parks to practise.

In Wallonia

In Walloon forests you can cycle on roads and wider paths. Cycling on narrow footpaths is in principle not allowed, unless they're waymarked for mountain bikes. Here too: with a waymarked trail you're always fine.

Everywhere

• Walkers have priority. Slow down, ring your bell in time and greet them in a friendly way.
• Stay on the trail. Making new paths damages the soil and plants.
• Don't ride fragile trails in very wet weather. They get churned up quickly.
• Mind hunting days in autumn: some forests are temporarily closed.

The best mountain bike areas

Hoge Kempen National Park (Limburg)

One of the most popular MTB areas in Belgium, with a large network through forest and heathland and a marathon trail of over 80 km. The terrain is sandy and rolling, with a few tough little climbs.

Bosland (Lommel, Hechtel-Eksel, Pelt)

The largest forest in Flanders, with kilometres of singletrack through pine forest. Ideal for those who like to keep up a good pace.

Heuvelland (West Flanders)

Around the Kemmelberg and the Rodeberg you can combine trails into rides of 60 to over 100 km. Not very technical, but with enough hills to feel it in your legs.

Flemish Ardennes

Steep slopes, sunken lanes and plenty of climbing. A challenge for the calves, with stunning views as a reward.

The Ardennes

For those who really want to climb and descend. Around Bouillon, La Roche-en-Ardenne, Houffalize and Malmedy you'll find trails with long climbs, rocky descents and beautiful nature.

Tip: sites like the MTB Route Database and the Sport Vlaanderen app list trails with length, elevation profile and starting point.

Tips for your first ride

1. Start with a short, easy trail of 20 to 30 km.
2. Always wear a helmet and gloves.
3. Bring enough water and something to eat. Mountain biking takes more energy than you think.
4. Bring a small repair kit: spare inner tube, tyre levers, pump and a multitool.
5. Dress in layers. You get warm while riding and cold quickly during a break.
6. Bring dry clothes for after the ride. After a muddy ride, a warm hoodie in the car is a real reward.

Frequently asked questions

Can you go mountain biking in the forest in Flanders?

Only on paths where cyclists are allowed. Follow the waymarked mountain bike trails and you're always fine.

Where are the best mountain bike trails in Belgium?

Popular areas are the Hoge Kempen, Bosland, Heuvelland, the Flemish Ardennes and the Ardennes around Bouillon, La Roche, Houffalize and Malmedy.

Do you need an expensive mountain bike to start?

No. For waymarked trails in Flanders, a decent entry-level mountain bike with good brakes and tyres is enough. You can also rent one to try it out first.

For those who like dirty tyres

Our Dirt Rush design shows a mountain biker racing through the forest. Available as a T-shirt, sweatshirt and hoodie: perfect for after the ride, with a hot coffee in your hand.