If you think you can’t ride in trees, you’re wrong. In Belgium, in fact, in Hechtel-Eksel in the Limburg district, cycling on treetops is a reality. How? Thanks to an incredible elevated bike path through the beautiful coniferous forests of Pijnven.
A Bike Path in the Forest
The choice of this specific place has a special meaning, which relates to its history. In fact, this forest was created at the beginning of the last century, when the mining industry flourished. In order to meet the need for wood, the locals began to plant conifers and then cut them down.
Luckily deforestation ended with the closure of the mines. As a result, today the trees have become a relaxing and unprecedented backdrop for cycling enthusiasts.
This suggestive route winds through the trees for 2300 feet. Moreover, at its highest point, it reaches a height of 62 feet. The result is a unique experience where you can breathe in the scent of the pine trees and admire the surrounding environment as if you were really flying over the forest. Another fundamental aspect concerns the perfect integration of the track into nature thanks to the solid steel columns that simulate tree trunks. In this way, in fact, there is a combination of safety for cyclists and respect for the environment.
The Importance of Cycling Tourism
After all, Flanders has long promoted cycling tourism in contact with nature. In addition to this spectacular new tree path, they offer a network of cycle paths through the De Wijers Nature Reserve. This is a charming area full of natural and historical points of interest. How not to mention, for example, the incredible Fietsen door het water, the route that offers the unique thrill of cycling on water at 700 feet above sea level?
Cycling through the Trees is therefore part of a wide range of incredible experiences for all lovers of two wheels. Just like the route on the water, cycling on the bike path immersed in the woods seems to be a unique experience that involves all the senses. In fact, if you follow this double circle route, you will go up in the middle of the conifers and experience a series of sensations. You can admire the beauty of nature, smell the scent of the forest – and get a rush of adrenaline too.
This elevated trail through the treetops awaits you in Hechtel-Eksel, Pijnven, in the Bosland forest. Next to the entrance is a picturesque pavilion, consisting of two steel frames with trunks stacked all around. This serves as an information and resting place for cyclists and pedestrians.
