Tips for a great cycling or walking holiday

LA CAMPINE FOR A WEEKEND CYCLING OR WALKING IN THE WOODS

As a starting point in a wooded area, we recommend camping Kempen in Lichtaart, situated in one of the most beautiful nature reserves in Belgium, the Purperen Heide. The campsite is situated on a cycling and walking route. The campsite also has a 2500 metre long, well-marked cyclo-cross course where you can pedal to your heart's delight. The cross-country course is often used by professional cyclists.

You can also stay here very comfortably. The campsite has nice, large pitches for your own tent or caravan, but you can also rent a hiker's cottage or other accommodation here.

CYCLING OR WALKING THROUGH HEATHLAND AND ALONG THE WATER'S EDGE

Another interesting starting point is camping Het Veen in Sint-Job-in't-Goor, north of Antwerp. This place is also situated at a cycling and walking junction that takes you through the Brechtse Heide and along the Dessel-Schoten Campine Canal. Here you can enjoy miles of towpaths along the water, forests and meadows. You can also opt for a cosy hiker's cottage at this campsite, perfect for a sporty holiday, or opt for more luxury in a cosy safari tent, a comfort tent or a mobile home. Of course you can also camp here with your own caravan or tent.

GOOD PREPARATION FOR A SUCCESSFUL CYCLING OR WALKING TOUR

The only thing left to do is to prepare the sporting part. Do not plan distances that are not feasible for everyone. Set a clear timetable, with a sufficiently long lunch break and possibly the possibility of interrupting the ride at this point if it proves too difficult for someone. Divide the route into three parts: the longest ride in the morning and two smaller parts in the afternoon, each with a good break for rest. Are you going on an electric bike? Then plan breaks near a charging point.

BASIC EQUIPMENT FOR EACH HIKE

In terms of equipment, we recommend the following for a cycling or walking trip:

• A detailed hiking map with the route mapped out;
• A mobile phone or smartphone;
• A well-fitting backpack with food and drinks;
• For drinks: water and an energy drink;
• As a snack a tasty muesli bar, a piece of fruit or nuts;
• Clothing in layers, suitable for all weather conditions;
• Bandages to take care of blisters.

GOOD GEAR MAKES THE JOURNEY A SUCCESS

Then, more specifically for hiking, we recommend well-fitting walking shoes, avoid new shoes that do not yet fit your feet. Bring a new pair of laces. For your cycling trip, make sure that the bikes are technically in order. Tyres, brakes, saddle... You can go with your own bike, but you can also rent a bike. A rental bike is always in good condition. In any case, take everything with you, so that you can repair or replace a tyre along the way, as well as a bicycle pump. Are you taking an electric bike? Don't forget the charger.

More information about interesting starting points in Belgium for successful cycling and walking tours?

Would you like to find out about other starting points or the price of an overnight stay at the campsite? Contact our team and we will be happy to help you. You can also download the brochure of all campsites or holiday parks in Belgium, where you can find all the information yourself.