By bike to the beach: an easy family ride from Brussels to Hofstade

Sun, a sandy beach and a swim – and you get there by bike. The Sport Vlaanderen domain in Hofstade (Zemst), between Brussels and Mechelen, is one of the best summer days out for families: a large beach with a big outdoor swimming area for young and old, green lawns and, for sporty swimmers, lanes of 50 and even 100 metres.

The ride

• Distance: about 20 km each way from our shop in Laeken – doable for kids from around 8 on their own bike, or for everyone with a child seat, trailer or cargo bike.
• Route: head north along the canal towards Vilvoorde – flat and mostly away from traffic – then follow the cycling junctions towards Hofstade.
• Time: count 1.5 to 2 hours with kids and stops.

We're putting this ride on Strava so you can follow it on your phone – find it on our family rides page. New to the junction network? Read our guide to cycling junctions.

Good to know

• Book your ticket online in advance on the Sport Vlaanderen Hofstade website – on sunny days it gets busy.
• Season: the beach usually opens around the start of May and stays open through the summer. Swimming only in supervised zones.
• Arriving by bike is the smart choice: on hot days the car park fills up fast – you'll ride straight past the queue.
• Bring: a good lock, water, sunscreen, towels and a picnic. A cargo bike or trailer makes carrying it all easy.
• Too tired to ride back? Mechelen station is close by – take the train back to Brussels with your bikes.

Get ready with us

Check tyres and brakes before you go – or let our workshop do it. Need a child seat, trailer or cargo bike for the trip? Read our family bike guide or come for a test ride.