Riding around Antwerp

mlgt
mlgt Posts: 366
edited June 2015 in Tour & expedition
I'm visiting family who have recently settled in Antwerp.
Will be driving and take our two young kids. However in the early mornings or late afternoons whilst they have their naps I was hoping to get out and about for 2 hours.

I have seen they have separate cycle paths. But has anyone ridding from say Antwerp to maybe The Hauge or even to the Netherlands. We are staying for 4 nights. So I would want to get out and about on my bike!

I reckon I would take the train back if I got lost. But any advice is welcome.

Thanks.
N2 - SW1

Canyon Endurace 9.0

Comments

  • BelgianBeerGeek
    BelgianBeerGeek Posts: 5,226
    A few years back I rode from Amsterdam to Calais and rode through Antwerp. I have to say that it was quite an ordeal and the road system is confusing. There are lots of cycle routes but they will be used by commuters who know where they are going, and they don't always appreciate lost cyclists stopping to check a map.
    Antwerp and its environs is also quite big and getting around the port, docks and industrial zones can take some time, so your 2 hours riding might not get you anywhere scenic. The good news is it's flat and the separate bike lanes go everywhere. The bit to the north of Antwerp and into NL is quite nice, and if you can stretch the time you might get over the border where there is a large nature reserve bordering the Schelde, IIRC.
    The abbey at West Malle is also not too far away... :wink:
    Ecrasez l’infame
  • FJS
    FJS Posts: 4,820
    Bit confused, The Hague is in The Netherlands. Riding into The Netherlands from Antwerp isnt too far, but The Hague us quite a distance and not the most scenic as you have to get through Rotterdam. A better bet might be following the Schelde river; the Schelde cycle path is well known around Gent and Oudenaarde.
  • mlgt
    mlgt Posts: 366
    Well I didnt take my bike in the end. By the time we had packed kids clothes. Items for the in laws the boot of my 5 series was almost full. So in hindsight Im glad I didnt bring my bike. As the return journey was the same. Packed of gifts!

    I did manage to get on a mountain bike to ride to town to get some shopping and yes I was very confused with the routing. But bikes get the right of way regardless and I was over courteous.

    I did see a few scattered road bikers in gear, but majority of the riders were leisurely only. Even on a sunday morning! :)
    N2 - SW1

    Canyon Endurace 9.0

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