The best gravel rides in Daknamse Meersen
4.8
(21)
693
riders
55
rides
Gravel biking in Daknamse Meersen offers routes through a distinctive marshland area within the Durme valley. The terrain features a mosaic of hayfields, woodlands, pollard willows, and numerous ditches, alongside reedbeds and grasslands. An old railway embankment, now a cycling path, provides elevated views over the area. This region is recognized as a Natura 2000 protected area, highlighting its ecological significance.
Best gravel bike trails in Daknamse Meersen
- The most popular gravel bike trail is Chapel of the Cross – Ter Beuken Bicycle Bridge loop from Lokeren, a 17.9 miles (28.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 47 minutes to complete. This easy route offers varied scenery including a bicycle bridge.
- Another top favourite among local gravel bikers is Waasmunster Singletracks – Waasmunster Bike Park loop from Lokeren, a moderate 32.8 miles (52.8 km) path. This route incorporates singletracks and bike park sections, providing a dynamic riding experience.
- Local gravel bikers also love the Moervaart Towpath – Moervaart Towpath in Moerbeke loop from Lokeren, a 46.3 miles (74.6 km) trail leading through the Moervaart towpath area, often completed in about 5 hours 10 minutes.
- Gravel biking in Daknamse Meersen is defined by marshland areas, old railway embankments, and diverse natural features like hayfields and woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging long-distance routes.
- The routes in Daknamse Meersen are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. More than 900 gravel bikers have used komoot to explore Daknamse Meersen's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 8, 2026
4.8
(4)
21
riders
28.9km
01:47
30m
30m
Easy gravel ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(11)
245
riders
95.3km
05:04
240m
240m
Hard gravel ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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42
riders
49.7km
02:48
50m
50m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5.0
(1)
31
riders
Moderate gravel ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
75
riders
59.9km
03:32
170m
170m
Hard gravel ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
On Friday, April 5, 1867, the Spletterenbrug was officially opened. Between Moerbeke and Lokeren, trains stopped in Daknam and Eksaarde. In Moerbeke, travelers could transfer to railway line 77 towards Zelzate or towards Sint-Gillis-Waas. That the intention was to one day double the 9-kilometer railway line to two tracks is still visible on the Spletterenbrug. Both bridge abutments are indeed twice as wide as the bridge deck itself. It never came to that. On the contrary. The railway line suffered during both world wars, causing traffic to be suspended for months. For example, retreating German soldiers blew up the bridge at the end of World War I. Less than a year after the armistice, in September 1919, the line was already restored and trains could run on the route again. In 1940, the Belgian army, in turn, tried to slow down the German advance by destroying the bridge. The bridge was repaired again. In 1971, the last train chugged along the route. After more than a century of train traffic, the tracks were dismantled and the route was redeveloped as a cycling and walking path from Lokeren to Moerbeke. The Spletterenbrug itself was preserved and restored in 2017. The seven layers of paint were removed, and the bridge regained its original, dark gray color. Source: industriecultuur.be
4
0
Bovendurme? The naming of the different waters in the vicinity is sometimes quite confusing and requires an explanation: The Bovendurme is the part of the Durme located in the Ghent canals basin. The river begins at the confluence between the Zuidlede and the Moervaart near Daknam. It then flows further along Daknam and through the center of Lokeren, and flows into the Benedendurme near the Molsbroek. Previously, the Bovendurme and Benedendurme were one river called the Durme. But due to regular floods, a dam was built at the Molsbroek, which split the river into two parts. Because of this, the Benedendurme is often still called the "Durme", but the Bovendurme is mistakenly referred to as the Moervaart. Wikipedia
4
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Daknambrug in Daknam, a sub-municipality of Lokeren. This charming swing bridge over the Durme is located at the site of a former ferry crossing on the old Lille-Tilburg highway. Such a ferry served as a bridge to transport people, livestock, horses, and vehicles. The current swing bridge has replaced a small wooden bridge since the 1930s. At that time, the Durme was straightened here between the confluence of the Zuidlede and Moervaart at Spletterenbrug and the bend near Middendam. In the summer, you can see the bridge keeper opening the bridge to let pleasure boats pass, sailing to or from Lokeren.
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Opened on October 1, 2012, the Brug Ter Beuken provides a safe and green connection to the city center. It has since become a fixed landmark in the landscape: the beautiful red cycle and footbridge that spans the Durme at the end of Vijgenstraat. The bridge is 21m long. Source: axiradio.be
4
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The Kalkensemeersen nature reserve is beautiful
0
0
Beautiful, long unpaved avenue, where you tunnel through the green foliage.
6
0
A fun technical piece. Especially for younger guys/girls, it's fun to show off their technique on all sorts of bumps, hills, etc.
0
0
Slow your speed before, on and after the bridge. The pathway is narrow and shared with pedestrians.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on gravel bike trails in Daknamse Meersen?
The Daknamse Meersen area is characterized by a diverse landscape, including marshland areas, hayfields, woodlands, and numerous ditches. You'll find a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with notable sections like the converted old railway embankment, which provides an ideal gravel path with scenic views. The region also features reedbeds, open water, and remnants of sand dunes, offering varied riding conditions.
How many gravel bike trails are available in Daknamse Meersen?
There are over 65 gravel bike trails available in Daknamse Meersen, catering to various skill levels. This includes 10 easy routes, 38 moderate routes, and 17 more challenging options.
Are there any family-friendly gravel biking options in Daknamse Meersen?
Yes, Daknamse Meersen offers several easy gravel routes suitable for families. These trails often follow the flatter terrain of the marshlands and converted railway embankments, providing a pleasant and accessible experience. For example, the Chapel of the Cross – Ter Beuken Bicycle Bridge loop from Lokeren is an easy route that offers varied scenery.
What are some natural features or landmarks to look out for while cycling?
The region is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. You can explore the diverse marshland environment, spot various bird species, and enjoy views from the old railway embankment. Notable points of interest include the Cycle path on the Old Railway Line Lokeren–Moerbeke, the Daknam Bridge, and the Unpaved Path Along the River. Keep an eye out for the unique Reynaert Bench Coppe, adorned with quotes from the medieval Reynaert epic.
What is the best time of year to go gravel biking in Daknamse Meersen?
Daknamse Meersen offers a great gravel biking experience throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild weather and beautiful natural scenery. Autumn is also a great time to observe migratory birds. While summer is also an option, be prepared for potentially warmer temperatures. Winter riding is possible, but conditions may be wetter, especially in the marshland areas.
What is the difficulty level of gravel bike trails in Daknamse Meersen?
The trails in Daknamse Meersen range from easy to difficult. You'll find 10 easy routes, 38 moderate routes, and 17 difficult routes. This variety ensures options for beginners looking for a relaxed ride as well as experienced gravel bikers seeking more challenging terrain, such as the Moervaart Towpath – Moervaart Towpath in Moerbeke loop from Lokeren.
Are there any specific challenges for advanced gravel bikers in the area?
For advanced gravel bikers, routes like the Waasmunster Singletracks – Waasmunster Bike Park loop from Lokeren incorporate singletracks and bike park sections, providing a dynamic and more technical riding experience. The longer, more difficult routes, such as the Ter Beuken Bicycle Bridge – Donkmeer loop from Lokeren, also offer endurance challenges.
What do other gravel bikers say about the trails in Daknamse Meersen?
The gravel biking routes in Daknamse Meersen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 30 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse scenery, the mix of surfaces, and the peaceful atmosphere of the marshland areas. Many appreciate the well-maintained paths, including the old railway embankment, and the variety of options for different skill levels.
Is there public transport access to Daknamse Meersen for cyclists?
While specific details on public transport options for cyclists directly into the heart of Daknamse Meersen are limited, the area is accessible from nearby towns like Lokeren. It's advisable to check local public transport schedules and policies regarding bicycle transport to plan your journey effectively.
Are there parking facilities available near the gravel trails?
Yes, parking facilities are generally available in and around the Daknamse Meersen area, particularly near popular starting points for cycling routes. Many routes begin or pass through Lokeren, where you can find parking options. It's recommended to check specific starting points for designated parking areas.
Can I find circular gravel bike routes in Daknamse Meersen?
Yes, many of the gravel bike trails in Daknamse Meersen are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. This is convenient for exploring the region without needing to arrange transport back to your starting location. An example is the Ter Beuken Bicycle Bridge – Liniewegel Singletrack loop from Lokeren.
Are there any nature reserves or protected areas I should be aware of?
Yes, Daknamse Meersen is recognized as a Natura 2000 protected area, highlighting its ecological importance. The region is a 'meersengebied' (marshland area) within the Durme valley, featuring rich biodiversity. This means you'll be cycling through a sensitive natural environment, so please stay on marked paths and respect local wildlife.
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