“Cycling through water” in Belgium
Title: Cycling Through Water in Belgium: Pedal Across Pond Waters on Limburg’s Iconic Path
Meta Description: Discover Belgium’s “Cycling through Water” – an immersive bikeway in Limburg where you glide through a serene pond. Learn how to visit, why it’s unique, and tips for your adventure!
Cycling Through Water in Belgium: A Surreal Pedal-Powered Experience
Imagine cycling along a path that parts the waters of a tranquil pond, creating a ripple-free channel where you’re surrounded by reeds, lily pads, and curious fish. This isn’t a dream—it’s the reality of “Cycling through Water” (Fietsen door het Water), one of Belgium’s most ingenious and Instagram-worthy bike trails. Nestled in the lush province of Limburg, this award-winning route combines innovative design with nature immersion, putting Belgium’s cycling infrastructure on the global map.
What Is Cycling Through Water?
Cycling through Water is a 200-meter-long, 3-meter-wide bikeway that cuts through the middle of a pond in the Bokrijk region of Limburg, Belgium. Opened in 2016 as part of Limburg’s “Cycle Route Network,” the path sits precisely at water level, giving riders the sensation of gliding across the surface while staying perfectly dry. The shallow water on either side teems with aquatic life, making it a peaceful yet thrilling ride for cyclists of all ages.
Where Is It Located?
The iconic path is situated in Bokrijk, near Genk in Limburg, Flanders. It’s seamlessly integrated into the Limburg Cycling Route Network, which boasts over 2,000 km of signposted trails. The exact starting point is along route F12 (node 91) or F72 (node 272). You can combine it with other themed routes like “Cycling Through the Trees”, a raised circular path 10 meters above the forest floor, located just 15 km away.
Why Visit?
- Unique Engineering Marvel: The path’s design minimizes environmental impact while maximizing visual drama. Its submerged walls maintain the pond’s ecosystem, letting cyclists coexist with nature.
- Accessible Adventure: Suitable for families, casual riders, and road cyclists. The path is flat, paved, and free to use year-round (though winter rides offer a frosty twist!).
- Award-Winning Fame: The project won a European Tourism Award in 2018 and has drawn over 300,000 visitors annually, cementing its status as a must-do Belgian experience.
- Photo Ops & Serenity: Capture unforgettable shots as you bisect the water, or pause on the observation decks to soak in the calm.
How to Get There
- By Car: Drive to Bokrijk Park (Bokrijklaan 1, 3600 Genk). Parking is available at the Bokrijk Open-Air Museum (~€5/day).
- By Train: Take a direct train to Genk Station, then rent a bike (e.g., from Limburg Cycling partners) or hop on bus line 20 toward Bokrijk.
- By Bike: Follow Limburg’s junction-based network (knooppunten). From Hasselt, ride via nodes 91→272.
Tips for Your Visit
- Best Time to Go: Spring and summer offer lush greenery and active wildlife. Early mornings or weekdays avoid crowds.
- Combine Attractions: Visit the Bokrijk Open-Air Museum (a historic village) or hike in Hoge Kempen National Park nearby.
- Bike Rentals: No bike? Rent one at Bokrijk’s entrance (standard, e-bike, or kids’ bikes available).
- Accessibility: The path is wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.
Beyond the Water: Explore Limburg’s Cycling Paradise
Limburg bills itself as a “cycling paradise,” and for good reason. Pair Cycling through Water with:
- Cycling Through the Trees (Bosland): A 700-meter spiral bridge rising above the pines.
- The Waterrad Route: A 54-km trail linking historical water mills.
- Lancaster Bomber Route: A WWII-themed ride through De Merode forests.
FAQs
- Is it safe? Yes! The path is stable, with guardrails and clear signage.
- Cost? Free! Only parking or bike rentals incur fees.
- Length? The water section is 200 meters, but connect it to longer routes (e.g., a 10-km loop around Bokrijk).
Final Thoughts
Cycling through Water is more than just a bike path—it’s a poetic blend of human creativity and natural beauty. Whether you’re a hardcore cyclist, a family seeking novelty, or a traveler craving unique moments, this Limburg gem delivers. As the locals say: “In Belgium, we don’t ride bikes. We ride experiences.”
Ready to make a splash? Plan your trip to Limburg and pedal into the heart of Belgium’s most unforgettable waterway.
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