Cycle Path Through Water: Unique Attraction Near NRW, Belgium

Bokrijk, Belgium – A unique cycling experience is drawing attention from across Europe, offering riders and walkers the chance to traverse a pond at eye level. Since opening in April 2016, the “Cycling through Water” path in Bokrijk has become a popular destination, located just a 40-minute drive from the North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW) border.

The 200-meter-long cycle path, situated at node 91 of the cycle node network in the De Wijers pond landscape, is designed to immerse visitors in the surrounding environment. The path gently slopes downwards in the middle, creating the sensation of being surrounded by water as cyclists and pedestrians make their way across. The water level reaches eye level on both sides, offering a distinctive perspective of the landscape.

A Blend of Recreation and Environmental Stewardship

The project wasn’t solely about creating a novel attraction. According to Visit Limburg, its construction accelerated the implementation of Bokrijk’s new woodland and landscape management plan. By opening dikes, the ponds are kept cleaner for longer, benefiting the habitat of amphibians and other local wildlife. This demonstrates a commitment to integrating recreational opportunities with environmental conservation.

The innovative design has garnered recognition, receiving the World Landscape Architecture Award in the “Built Design – Small Scale” category in 2018. The award acknowledged the project’s innovative public space design and its sensitivity to the natural surroundings. The path was designed in collaboration with Lens°Ass Architecten and BuroLandschap to minimize disruption to bird migration routes and aquatic currents.

Accessibility and Nearby Attractions

The cycle path is easily accessible by car, with parking available at Bokrijklaan 1, 3600 Genk. Public transportation options are also readily available, with a train station in Bokrijk and bus stops conveniently located nearby. For those without their own bicycles, rental services are available, with options at fietsparadijslimburg.be, encouraging visitors to reserve in advance.

The “Cycling through Water” path is part of the larger Limburg cycle path network, with routes ranging from 6.4 to 62.8 kilometers. A 56-kilometer tour combines the unique waterway with other regional highlights, including the Hoge Kempen National Park, heathland landscapes, and the former C-Mine mining site in Genk. The path isn’t limited to cyclists. it’s also open to walkers and joggers, making it a versatile attraction for a wide range of visitors.

The experience offers a unique visual perspective, with observers noting the amusing sight of heads appearing to float on the water’s surface as cyclists pass through. This distinctive feature has contributed to the path’s growing popularity and its reputation as a must-see destination for those visiting the Limburg region.

A Regional Draw for Active Tourism

The attraction’s proximity to NRW makes it an appealing option for day trips from the Ruhr area. The ease of access, combined with the unique experience, positions “Cycling through Water” as a significant draw for active tourism in the region. It joins other innovative attractions like a glowing cycle path near Eindhoven, inspired by Van Gogh’s “Starry Night,” in showcasing the Netherlands and Belgium’s commitment to creative and sustainable tourism initiatives.

The GPS coordinates for the cycling node are 50.963069, 5.392711, allowing for easy navigation for those planning a visit. The project exemplifies how thoughtful infrastructure can enhance both the visitor experience and the surrounding ecosystem, creating a harmonious blend of recreation and environmental responsibility.