Cycling Through Water – riding a bike across a sheet of water

Imagine pedaling your bike with shimmering water on both sides of the path, glistening right at eye level. Sounds surreal? Yet it’s a reality in the heart of Belgian Limburg, where Cycling Through Water offers a one-of-a-kind biking experience – right through the middle of a lake.

Through the water by bike – a global unique

Located in the heart of the De Wijers nature reserve – known as the land of a thousand ponds – Cycling Through Water is a 212-meter-long bike path cutting across one of the area’s largest ponds near Bokrijk. It offers cyclists and pedestrians the unique opportunity to travel at water level. The path is sunken 1.6 meters below the surface and constructed from concrete, designed to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings.

De Wijers is a remarkable ecosystem, featuring around 700 hectares of water bodies – remnants of historic fish farms – forming a mosaic of ponds, wetlands, and forests. Opened in April 2016, the bike path was the first structure of its kind in the world and remains unique to this day. In 2018, the project received the World Landscape Architecture Award in the “Built Design – Small Scale” category, recognized for its innovative public space design and environmental sensitivity.

Architecture in harmony with–and for–nature

Cycling Through Water is more than just an eye-catching bike path – it’s an example of infrastructure that actively strengthens the local ecosystem. While a concrete path through a pond may sound disruptive, it has proven beneficial for both people and wildlife.

The project was designed by Lens°Ass Architecten in collaboration with BuroLandschap to avoid disrupting bird migration routes or aquatic currents. Importantly, the project accelerated the implementation of a new landscape and forest management plan in Bokrijk. As part of this initiative, water level regulation systems in the ponds were modernized, improving water quality and increasing survival rates for amphibians and other aquatic life.

Ecological corridors were also created between ponds to allow animals to move freely. This approach demonstrates that functional infrastructure can also spark environmental renewal.

Interestingly, the project also contributed to the revival of regional cultural heritage. Traditional monniken – historic water management systems dating back to the Middle Ages—were reconstructed as part of the work.

May getaway in Bokrijk – why add Cycling Through Water to your plans?

Bokrijk Park, home to the water path, is a true gem of Limburg, spanning over 550 hectares. Spring, especially the May holiday, is an ideal time to visit – the De Wijers ponds sparkle in the sunlight and the surrounding greenery comes alive. Although it’s a long drive from Poland (about 10-12 hours by car), Cycling Through Water is an attraction well worth the journey.

Bokrijk offers much more than just biking across water. Visitors can also explore:

• The Open-Air Museum – one of Europe’s largest, showcasing Flemish village life from the 17th to the 20th century, with over 120 authentic buildings.
• The Arboretum – featuring a collection of 2,200 species of trees and shrubs, ideal for peaceful nature walks.
• The Bunker Weeps – an artistic installation inside a WWI-era bunker, encouraging reflection on history and nature.
• The Playground – the largest in the region, with diverse zones for different age groups.
• A network of walking and cycling trails – enabling active exploration of picturesque landscapes.

A route full of experiences

Cycling Through Water is part of Limburg’s famous cycling network, located near junction 91. The node system (called knooppunten) lets cyclists plan their routes by connecting shorter and longer segments into personalized journeys. The water path is open year-round and enjoys great popularity. Bike rental stations nearby offer standard bikes, e-bikes, and tandems for a comfortable tour through Bokrijk and its surroundings.

A symbol of Limburg and an inspiration worldwide

Since its opening in 2016, Cycling Through Water has drawn hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, becoming one of Limburg’s defining symbols. On peak days, up to 5,000 cyclists use the path. The project has significantly boosted the visibility of both Bokrijk Park and the De Wijers reserve, proving that tourism can support nature conservation and promote sustainable development. If you’re dreaming of a spring getaway full of unforgettable experiences, add this place to your list. Riding across a sheet of water is an adventure you’ll remember for years to come.

Main photo: Paul Hermans/Wikimedia