If Belgium is the cyclists’ Kingdom, the Ardennes (and Daft) are their Paradise.
Long forest roads. Quiet valleys. Railway paths converted into cycling highways. Climbs that make your heart beat like a techno kick drum. Descents that feel like flying.
From the famous Vennbahn cycle route to legendary Ardennes climbs and traffic-free RAVeL paths, the region offers some of the best cycling routes in Belgium. And few places put you closer to them than Daft Hotel.
These are five of our favourite rides for discovering the Ardennes on two wheels.
The Vennbahn
125 km · Former Railway Line · Traffic-Free · Connects Belgium, Germany & Luxembourg
One of Europe’s most celebrated cycle routes, the Vennbahn follows a former railway line for 125 kilometres through the forests and open landscapes of the High Fens. The gradients are gentle, the surface is smooth and traffic is virtually absent. Crossing Belgium, Germany and Luxembourg with surprising ease, it offers long uninterrupted kilometres where the rhythm of pedalling becomes the main event. For many riders, it’s the perfect introduction to the Ardennes.
RAVeL Line 45
47 km · Former Railway Route · Traffic-Free · Malmedy’s Cycling Backbone
Line 45 forms part of Wallonia’s extensive RAVeL network and provides one of the easiest rides in the region. Built on a former railway corridor, it links Malmedy with Stavelot and beyond, following river valleys and old railway infrastructure through the Ardennes landscape. The gradients are minimal, the scenery constantly changing and the kilometres disappear effortlessly. A route made for distance, conversation and steady cruising.
Mont Netflix
Approx. 7 km Climb · Sustained Gradient · Legendary Local Ascent
Known locally as Mont Netflix, this long Ardennes climb gained wider attention after appearing in a Netflix production, though cyclists had been suffering here long before the cameras arrived. Rising steadily through dense forest, it rewards patience rather than explosive power. The gradient remains manageable throughout, but the climb seems to continue around every corner. One of the longest uninterrupted ascents near Malmedy and a favourite training road for local riders.
The Warche Valley Loop
45-70 km · Rolling Terrain · River Views · Classic Ardennes Scenery
If someone asked what the Ardennes feels like, this would be the route to show them.
This is Ardennes cycling at its most characteristic. Following the Warche River through forests, meadows and quiet villages, the route strings together a succession of short climbs and flowing descents. Nothing is excessively steep, yet the terrain never truly relaxes. More than a route measured in watts or averages, it is a ride defined by atmosphere, changing scenery and roads that encourage frequent stops to admire the view.
Spa-Francorchamps & Stavelot Loop
60-90 km · Ardennes Climbs · Motorsport Heritage · Fast Roads
Starting from Malmedy, this loop heads towards Stavelot and the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit, combining smooth Ardennes roads with a landscape steeped in sporting history. The profile constantly rises and falls, offering a succession of climbs without ever reaching high mountains. Fast descents, quiet forest roads and glimpses of one of motorsport’s most iconic venues make this one of the region’s most rewarding rides.
Pack the Bike. Stay at Daft Hotel.
From Malmedy, you’re sitting at the crossroads of some of the best cycling routes in Belgium. Whether you’re planning a cycling holiday in the Ardennes, a weekend road cycling trip, a gravel adventure, or simply looking for beautiful bike rides near Malmedy, this corner of Wallonia delivers a route for every type of rider.
The best part? You can roll out of DAFT Hotel, clip in, and be on some of the region’s most iconic cycling routes within minutes.
Book your stay at Daft Hotel now on www.dafthotel.be
