Bilzen is a cycling gem that likes to be discovered. You will find a lot of fun and cultural history in this Belgian-Limburg town. Moreover, from Bilzen you drive into the rolling Haspengouw, a region that is also called the Tuscany of Belgium.
Streams and forests
You cycle through a varied landscape of stream valleys, forests and panoramic views. In the valley of the river Demer, for example, you drive through a quiet green area with swamp forests and moist meadows. The Jongenbos is located on the transition between the Kempen and Haspengouw, so that in addition to deciduous trees you will also find pines here.
Enjoy Limburg
Cycling through Haspengouw you will notice that there are many orchards here. Part of that delicious fruit ends up in one of the types of Limburg pie that you can order with a cup of coffee or tea. Bilzen itself, where the route ends, is also a good place to be. For example, try a beer from the local craft brewery Den Toetëlèr on a terrace. Or order a regional dish, such as rabbit or farm chicken, Bilzerse style. I hope it tastes well!
Impressive castle domain
When you think of Limburg, you think of old square farms, chapels and castles. You will encounter them regularly on this route. Hof ter Poorten, for example, is a typical Haspengouw square farmhouse from 1626. A little later you cycle across the domain of Grand Commandery Alden Biesen. This complex was built from the thirteenth to the nineteenth century by the German order of knights. Now the impressive castle complex has been beautifully restored. A visit to the castle takes you far back in time. You can freely visit almost the entire domain, including the English park. Would you like to discover more of the special cultural history in Bilzen? Then walk route 316469.