Once you have arrived in the capital of Brussels you will instantly feel the welcoming nature of the city. Take the first day to explore the area. We recommend heading out to the Grande Palace and the central square before immersing yourself in the city’s food and drink culture. Taste the waffles, chcocolates and more as you explore the city’s architecture and art that makes it so unique.
Your first day on the bike will see you head north to the city of Mechelen. Whilst this is one of the smaller places you’ll visit, Mechelen is just as beautiful as its neighbouring cities. Your ride through tree-lined country lanes will guide you past glorious abbeys and churches, alongside rivers, and through the vibrant countryside before reaching your hotel.
Today you will continue your journey towards the port city of Antwerp. Ride through the countryside before reaching Duffel on the River Nete. This will likely be your final stop before you arrive in Antwerp. Rest up here in one of the many cafes or bars following a successful day on the bike. One of our favourite things to do here is to visit the beautiful Old Town and take in the rich cultural and architectural history of the city. Shopping is very popular here with quaint market stalls and famous shops to choose between.
Today’s ride will return you further south as you follow the meandering River Scheldt. As you come up to Kruibeke, you will have a chance to visit the Wissekerk Castle which, during the 10th Century, was a significant line of defence for Antwerp. Following this, you’ll come to cross the Scheldt via a ferry before continuing your ride parallel to the water to De Zilverreiger. Continue a short ride to the charming city of Dendermonde where you will spend the night.
Today you’ll rejoin the Scheldt river as you ride past a number of quaint Flemish villages and towns. The afternoon will see you ride into Ghent, the UNESCO Creative City of Music. The music scene here will jump out at you the minute you set foot in the city. As night falls, you will notice the vibe and scenery change dramatically. This is a result of the beautiful light plan in the city, bringing to life parts of Ghent that you wouldn’t have noticed in the light of day. The ambience is remarkable and will leave you with special lasting memories of the city.
As you ride west through Belgium, you will discover the Meerjesland region. This is a true cycling paradise with countryside roads, rolling meadows and vast crop fields as far as the eye can see. A relaxation haven. Following some easy pedalling, arrive in Eeklo for a rest, a town known for its many sculptures. Next, you’ll continue your onwards journey through the Het Leen and Drongengoed woods, a mystical region adding yet another unique landscape to your ride. We recommend you jump off the bike following this ride and enjoy a 3.5km walk in the Maldegemveld nature reserve. The signposted walk is highly recommended by locals. Following an active day, you’ll be ready to spend your evening relaxing in the charming municipality of Maldegem, taking in the serene lifestyle shared by the locals.
For your final full day on the bike, you will continue to enjoy flat cycling through the glorious Flemish countryside. Leave Maldegem and pass through the sleepy villages of Knesselare, Maria-Aalter and Moerbrugge. Jon up with the Ghent-Bruges canal which, as one of the oldest in the country, dates back to the 14th century. Your final destination, Bruges, is an excellent place to end your holiday. The charming, cobbled city radiates a fairytale ambience, making it a delightful place to relax and explore with friends and family.
Enjoy a final breakfast in Bruges before heading to the airport or train station and returning home. If you would like to extend your trip, this can be arranged, just let our team know when you enquire.
Belgium is one of the most charming places to cycle in Europe. The country’s commitment to cycling ensures there are ample cycle paths and networks available for those looking to explore by bike. Link the famous cities and towns by following scenic river paths or secluded countryside lanes before discovering the cultural and architectural histories of Genk, Antwerp, Bruges and more. If you’re new to cycling or simply seeking relaxed rides with great rewards, this is the place for you.
