The 10.5 km Outer Canal Loop, also referred to as the ‘ramparts loop’ is the signature running route in Bruges. The dedicated gravel path circles the historic center, passing through four historic gates, past the Cozette Bridge, and numerous important sites. This is the route of the old city walls, a few of which are preserved, but the path is mainly parkland. There are markers every 500m, and restrooms/water fountains. Bonus: most of the path is lit at night!
We start at Kruispoort, the oldest and best preserved gate, running counterclockwise along a path with views to the Handelskom canal and the Bruges skyline. Pass the Gentpoort Gate and Schietbaan museum, run through the historic Minnewaterpark and two historic towers, before crossing the R30 to the west side, continuing on the path. Run for ~1 km north to the Smedenpoort Gate. After crossing the main road again, head LEFT (west), along the Afleidingsvaart canal. At the Paramount Sport Center, head east along Houtkaai, and then the path where it picks up again after crossing the N9. Continue through Baron Ruzettepark, then turning RIGHT again to head south, staying west of the R30 and along a park-like section as you pass the Koeleweimolen windmill, to the end.
Add-Ons: Can combine with Inner Canal Loop and other historic sections of Bruges.
Kruispoort Gate
The 10.5 km Outer Canal Loop, also referred to as the ‘ramparts loop’ is the signature running route in Bruges. The dedicated gravel path circles the historic center, passing through four historic gates, past the Cozette Bridge, and numerous important sites. This is the route of the old city walls, a few of which are preserved, but the path is mainly parkland. There are markers every 500m, and restrooms/water fountains. Bonus: most of the path is lit at night!
We start at Kruispoort, the oldest and best preserved gate, running counterclockwise along a path with views to the Handelskom canal and the Bruges skyline. Pass the Gentpoort Gate and Schietbaan museum, run through the historic Minnewaterpark and two historic towers, before crossing the R30 to the west side, continuing on the path. Run for ~1 km north to the Smedenpoort Gate. After crossing the main road again, head LEFT (west), along the Afleidingsvaart canal. At the Paramount Sport Center, head east along Houtkaai, and then the path where it picks up again after crossing the N9. Continue through Baron Ruzettepark, then turning RIGHT again to head south, staying west of the R30 and along a park-like section as you pass the Koeleweimolen windmill, to the end.
Add-Ons: Can combine with Inner Canal Loop and other historic sections of Bruges.
A short loop of Bruges's Inner Canal packs in a lot of key sites. Most of the route is along the water, which is lined with older homes and buildings. Can be combined with other sections of historic Bruges or sections of the outer canal loop, ~1 km away.
A wonderful canal-side run for 6 km to the historic town of Damme. Pretty and pastoral. Options for paths on either side of the canal. Includes a 1.5 km loop around the star-shaped moat encircling Damme. Out and back or bus for return.
This park-like area, 7 km south of Bruges, offers some wonderful running opportunities. There are numerous paths winding through fields, woods, and meadows...and a castle! There are several marked trails that can be done as running loops.
Forest park 10 km southwest of Bruges offering numerous paths that are pleasant for running. Mainly wooded, and fairly gentle trail running. Can be combined with Tillegembos for a longer run.
A 180-hectare area centered around a historic castle, offering a good variety of running opportunities. Located in the suburb of Sint-Kruis, 6 km east of Bruges. Two well-marked running loops combine woods, fields, meadows, gardens, and a castle.
There's wonderful running in the coastal area 12 km north of Bruges, in the towns of Zeeburg, Blankenberge, De Haan, and Ostend. A long, continuous beach is great for running. There are several long boardwalk paths, and some nice parks.
This 159-acre nature park, located 20 km northeast of Bruges offers numerous paths along coastal plain, salt marshes, dunes, and along the water. Get away from the 'tourist' area of the park to the outer paths for some lovely running.
A forest area located 12 km south of Bruges. Excellent variety across some 150 km of trails, from walled landscaped gardens to stately avenues, quiet roads past country residences, and many wooded paths.
The Belgian countryside is historic, pastoral, and great for running. Some of our recommendations among the extensive series of paths & roads passing by castles, through woodlands, along canals and the coast, and by farms and fields.
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