The best cycling routes around Handelsdok
4.3
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37,622
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1,068
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Touring cycling around Handelsdok is characterized by its flat, urban-integrated terrain, featuring extensive canal-side and riverside paths. The area, part of Ghent's urban regeneration, offers wide concrete paths along quays and connects to a broader network of cycle paths. These routes often follow old towpaths along waterways like the Lieve Canal, providing generally flat and well-prepared surfaces. Green infrastructure and urban parks complement the maritime industrial heritage of the district.
Best touring cycling routes around Handelsdok
- The most popular touring cycling route is View of the Leie River – Ooidonk Castle loop from Gent-Dampoort, a 32.4 miles (52.1 km) trail that takes 3 hours 8 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers scenic views along the Leie River and includes the historic Ooidonk Castle.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Cycle Path Along the Lieve – Towpath Along the Lieve loop from Gent-Dampoort, a moderate 26.9 miles (43.3 km) path. This route leads through the picturesque Lieve Canal region.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Gentbrugse Meersen Wetlands – Gentbrugse Meersen loop from Gent-Dampoort, a 14.0 miles (22.5 km) trail leading through wetlands and green spaces, often completed in about 1 hour 17 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Handelsdok is defined by canal-side routes, riverside paths, and urban green spaces. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy rides through wetlands to moderate routes exploring historical sites.
- The routes in Handelsdok are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2,400 reviews. More than 31,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Handelsdok's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
4.6
(48)
245
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
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381
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(36)
398
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(19)
312
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(37)
152
riders
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Porta Arboreti; monumental entrance gate and former dovecote belonging to and once forming access to the Ooidonk castle domain, which originates in the 14th century.
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De Lieve is a historic inland waterway canal that was dug between 1251 and 1269 from Ghent to Damme, originally Aardenburg. The period of prosperity is situated in the 13th and 14th centuries. Despite the silting up of the Zwin (early 14th and early 15th centuries), the digging of the Sasse Vaart in the mid-16th century, and the digging of the Ghent - Bruges canal in 1613-1614, it retained its original function until the beginning of the 18th century. In Ghent, Evergem, and Lievegem, the Lieve has been preserved as an open watercourse in sections. The route within the municipality of Damme has been preserved as a wide strip in the landscape. Source: https://www.lievegem.be/de-lieve
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Over the centuries, the people of Ghent remain true to their reputation as stubborn rebels. They even rise up against their own prince, Emperor Charles V. However, this goes one step too far: the people of Ghent are publicly humiliated, and the Roland Bell – a symbol of Ghent's independence – is removed from the Belfry. The once powerful city-state is brought to its knees, both figuratively and literally. Economically, things also gradually worsen. The city loses its access to the sea, and the population halves. It is only in the second half of the 18th century that an economic upswing occurs. Under Dutch leadership, Ghent gets its own university in 1816. As a reminder of this, a statue of King William I, founder of the university, was erected on De Reep. Ten years later, the city becomes a seaport again with the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal. Source: https://visit.gent.be/de/wissenswertes/praktische-auskuenfte/warum-gent/gent-im-laufe-der-jahrhunderte
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The history of Ghent begins in the year 630, when Saint Amandus decides to build an abbey at the confluence (or 'Ganda') of the rivers Leie and Scheldt. Almost 1400 years of history are still omnipresent in the city today: a medieval castle in a moat, an imposing cathedral, a belfry, three beguinages,… You will not find such a high density of history per square meter anywhere else as in the historic district of Ghent! From 1000 to approx. 1550, Ghent was one of the most important cities in Europe. Ghent was larger than London and only had Paris 'above' it. The 60,000 inhabitants the city had in the 14th century vehemently defended their rights: the counts and princes had to experience firsthand that the proud and rebellious Ghent citizen does not give up his acquired privileges and freedoms without a fight. Until the Battle of the Golden Spurs in 1302, the city was ruled by a few wealthy merchant families. As they generally preferred the French king to the Count of Flanders, they were given the derogatory nickname 'Leliaerts' by the people, derived from the lily (NL: lelie) on the French coat of arms. In the course of the increasing political power of the craftsmen and guilds in the 14th century, Ghent gained a more democratic leadership. As England blocked the import of raw materials for the vital textile industry, Ghent, during the Hundred Years' War (out of necessity), sided with England (1338-1345). The wealthy cloth merchant Jacob van Artevelde led the resistance against Count Louis of Nevers, a vassal of the French king. In 1345, the 'wise man' was murdered by his fellow citizens. His great significance is evident from the fact that Ghent is still referred to as 'Artevelde City' today. Ghent had to give up its alliance with England and recognize the King of France. In 1407, the seat of the Council of Flanders, the highest judicial body of the county, moved from Bruges to the Count's Castle. Dutch became the lingua franca. Source: https://visit.gent.be/de/wissenswertes/praktische-auskuenfte/warum-gent/gent-im-laufe-der-jahrhunderte
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The Bathioveer is a foot and cycle ferry that you operate entirely yourself and that connects the banks of the Leie. It offers a fun moment of diversion during your bike ride or walk.
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The two canals that intersect here (near Merendree and Zomergem, not Sint-Joris, as initially mentioned here) are the Ghent-Bruges Canal and the Schipdonk Canal. This point is known as the Schipdonk Lock.
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Best to check openings hours before you go, because the bar is not always open.
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It's very quiet to cycle there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes can I find around Handelsdok?
There are over 900 touring cycling routes available around Handelsdok, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. The majority of these are easy or moderate, suitable for various skill levels.
What is the general difficulty level for touring cycling routes in Handelsdok?
The terrain around Handelsdok is predominantly flat, characterized by canal-side and riverside paths. This makes most touring cycling routes easy to moderate, with gentle elevation changes. You'll find over 600 easy routes and more than 250 moderate routes.
Are there any family-friendly cycling routes near Handelsdok?
Yes, the flat and well-prepared paths along the canals and rivers make many routes suitable for families. An excellent option is the Gentbrugse Meersen Wetlands – Gentbrugse Meersen loop from Gent-Dampoort, which is an easy 22.5 km trail through green areas.
What kind of natural features and landscapes can I expect to see while cycling around Handelsdok?
While Handelsdok itself is an urban waterside area with industrial heritage, the surrounding region offers diverse natural features. You'll cycle along picturesque waterways like the Leie and Lieve Canal, through green spaces, urban parks, and wetlands. The wider Ghent area features meadows and polders, providing a blend of urban and natural scenery.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions to see along the cycling routes?
Absolutely! The area blends historical industrial charm with modern amenities. You can observe relics from Handelsdok's maritime past, such as harbor cranes and warehouses. Specific highlights include the Street Art at Oude Dokken, Ghent, the Blue Crane at Dok Noord, Ghent, and the redeveloped Houtdok. Many routes also pass by historic castles, such as those featured on the View of the Leie River – Ooidonk Castle loop from Gent-Dampoort.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Handelsdok?
The flat terrain and extensive cycling paths make Handelsdok enjoyable for touring cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is also popular, though it can be busier. Even in winter, many routes remain accessible, especially those on well-maintained urban paths.
Are there any circular cycling routes available near Handelsdok?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Cycle Path Along the Lieve – Towpath Along the Lieve loop from Gent-Dampoort is a popular circular route that takes you through the picturesque Lieve Canal region.
Where can I find parking for cycling routes around Handelsdok?
As Handelsdok is part of Ghent's urban area, parking options are available in and around the city center. You can look for public parking garages or designated parking zones near the Oude Dokken or Gent-Dampoort, which is a common starting point for many routes.
Can I reach the cycling routes around Handelsdok using public transport?
Yes, Ghent has an excellent public transport network. Many routes, such as those starting from Gent-Dampoort, are easily accessible by train or bus, allowing you to reach the starting points conveniently without a car.
Are there cafes or restaurants along the cycling routes in Handelsdok?
The urban renewal projects in the Oude Dokken, including Handelsdok, mean a dynamic environment with new businesses, shops, and restaurants continually emerging. You'll find various cafes and eateries along the redeveloped quays and in the broader Ghent city center, perfect for a break during your ride.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Handelsdok?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2,400 reviews. Reviewers often praise the flat, well-maintained paths, the blend of urban and natural scenery, and the historical industrial charm integrated into the modern landscape. The accessibility and variety of routes are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any dog-friendly cycling trails in the Handelsdok area?
While specific dog-friendly designations for cycling trails are not always explicit, the extensive network of paths along canals and through green spaces generally welcomes well-behaved dogs on a leash. Always ensure your dog is comfortable with cycling speeds and other users on shared paths.
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