A brand-new gravel route stretching almost 50 kilometres has been opened in Diksmuide (West Flanders). The route passes historic sites from the First World War, including the Trench of Deah (Dodengang) and the River IJzer. It is also the first gravel route in West Flanders to be developed by Flemish sports agency Sport Vlaanderen in collaboration with a local authority.
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New gravel cycle route past historic Great War sites in Diksmuide suitable for families and beginners
Colin Clapson
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A gravel route is a cycle route specially designed including unpaved surfaces such as gravel tracks, forest trails and cart tracks. It allows cyclists to combine the speed of a road bike with the adventure of a mountain bike, making it ideal for cyclists who want to avoid the hustle and bustle of public roads
“Of course, West Flanders already possessed gravel routes,” says Jesse Clarysse of Sport Vlaanderen. “But these were provided by commercial partners or via online route planners such as Strava, Komoot and RouteYou. The problem with these routes is that they are not always officially accessible; sometimes they run across private land or through nature reserves where cyclists are not permitted.”
At least half of the Frontzateroute’s route runs along unpaved paths. The route starts from the IJzerboomgaard provincial estate. “In Lampernisse, you can climb a restored church tower, with views of the landscape dominated by the River IJzer. Along the way, there are also preserved watchtowers to visit. In addition to the historical attractions, you will find picnic areas and places where you can have a meal along the route.”
Accessible route
The route has deliberately been kept accessible. “At just under 50 kilometres and with very little rise in elevation, it is ideal for families and beginners,” says Clarysse. “There is also a strong focus on safety. And more experienced gravel cyclists can incorporate the route into a longer ride.”
The launch of the gravel route is part of a wider trend. “According to the mobility federation Traxio, more than 23,000 gravel bikes were sold in Belgium by 2025. We see an annual increase of 3,000 to 4,000 bikes,” explains Clarysse. “Sales of mountain bikes are falling slightly, whilst gravel biking continues to grow.”
Fewer unpaved paths
“West Flanders has fewer unpaved paths than other provinces, so it’s not easy to find suitable routes. In nature reserves, for example, we always have to weigh up who is allowed to use the paths. But we are looking for suitable locations. We’ll probably open a second gravel route in Beernem after the summer,” Clarysse notes.