The best trails for running in nature in Brussels
Updated September 27, 2023 by pierre
The best running circuits in Brussels
If you're from Brussels, and looking to explore the most popular hikes for a run, you've come to the right place. Here are for you, the cards and trails of the best trails. It is not easy to find your way among all the trails in Brussels. Nature lovers like you will be delighted.
What is a “trail”?
If you've never heard the word "trail", it's a running sport. In English, this sport is called " Trail running“. It is practiced in nature or even sometimes on a path in the forest, on a plain, or montagne. In general, the distances are usually a few kilometers.
The importance of having good shoes
It's been a few years that more and more people are getting into trail running. In Europe, there would be eight million participants according to the statistical data published by the ITRA in 2020. This sport may well become one of the fastest growing sports in the world!
Be careful though, if you want to embark on the adventure, footwear is important. You don't run a trail with a "classic running shoe". Here you will need stable support. By running the trails, on the trails, your support and therefore your stride change constantly. Your running shoe must therefore offer a good retention, stability, hangs, and protection because the terrain is uneven. Some sites and resellers also offer interesting Spikes models. For instance, spikes atletiek from TopRunning.be
The best running and trails near Brussels
We have prepared for you a list of the best running trails near Brussels. Here are the best jobs to test:
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Meet near Hankar in Red Cloister Forest
Who would think that near Hankar metro it is possible to find a Trail? Make an appointment for an 18-mile circuit in the forest in the Rouge-Cloitre area in Auderghem.
The trail is not easy but rather expert level. Excellent physical condition required. Some surfaces are tarmaced but also on trails. Ideal, the starting point is accessible by public transport. (See itinerary)
2. The Brussels trail in the Sonian Forest
Fan of running or amateur, do not miss to discover the Trail of Brussels. The start and finish are at the sports center (at the entrance to the Sonian Forest). You will have the choice between 5 different distances (8/14/21/28/42). You will discover why this forest is nicknamed “the green lung of Brussels”. The routes will guide you to the most beautiful places in this nature reserve covering an area of 5000 ha located in the province of Brussels. Ideal if you come by train, you can also start this route on foot from Groenendaal station.
3. Outside Brussels – The Hautes Fagnes Trail
If you are ready to get out of Brussels, don't miss this trail! It has existed since 2005. It is friendly and has kept its spirit of discovery. Its course of 13 22 or 38 km is its main asset. You will leave from the heights of Malmédy located on the Hautes-Fagnes plateau. This trail has been chosen several times as a trail for the Belgian championships. On the program, beautiful landscapes, impressive climbs and descents as well as a passage through the castle of Reinhardstein. What also attracts sports enthusiasts is the rather convivial after-course. Here we find ourselves in the “bonne franquette” sitting on long tables while waiting for our grilled meats cooking on the barbecue.
4. The Mega Meyboom Trail – Brussels (MTB)
Did you know that this trail owes its name to one of the oldest folk traditions in Brussels? Since 1308, a tree has been planted annually in the city centre. This Mega Meyboom Trail turns out to be the most popular nature race in Brussels. The organizers (ASBL Sport et Santé) offer distances of 10km, 21km, 42km… But also an individual 65km and a 65km “RunBikeBike” (in teams of 3)
To learn more
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