Motorcycle routes through the East Cantons with free GPX
The East Cantons are the eastern, largely German-speaking corner of Belgium, and one of its best riding areas. The High Fens plateau, the valleys around Malmedy and St. Vith and the quiet border roads towards the Eifel give you elevation, open views and flowing curves.
Pick a route below, check it on the map and download the GPX free for your sat-nav.
The High Fens: open plateau riding
The High Fens form the highest part of Belgium. Roads like the ones past Baraque Michel and Mont Rigi cross open moorland with wide views, a rare landscape in the Benelux. The nature reserve is strictly protected, so stay on the road and respect the speed limits.
Photo: Vberger, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Malmedy and the valleys
South of the Fens the landscape folds into valleys. Malmedy and the roads around the Warche and the Ambleve combine curves with places to stop.
St. Vith and the border with the Eifel
Around St. Vith and Bullingen the roads get quieter and the villages smaller. The German border is minutes away, which makes the East Cantons the natural starting point for a ride into the Eifel.
Weather changes fast up here
The plateau is several hundred metres higher than the lowlands. Expect fog, wind and rain that the forecast for Liege or Brussels does not show. In winter, roads across the Fens can be icy long after the lowlands are clear.
Rather draw your own route?
Plan your own ride through the region with the free route planner. Click along the roads you want to ride, then export the GPX for your sat-nav with a free account.
Open the route plannerRoutes are shared by riders themselves. Always ride carefully, follow the highway code and local rules. You ride at your own risk.
Frequently asked questions
What makes the East Cantons special for riders?
The combination of the open High Fens plateau, curvy valleys around Malmedy and St. Vith and the direct connection with the German Eifel.
Can I combine the East Cantons with the Eifel?
Yes, the regions border each other. Many routes cross into Germany around Monschau or St. Vith.
Is the High Fens area open to motorcycles?
The public roads are. The nature reserve itself is protected: stay on the road, mind the limits and expect walkers and cyclists.
Can I download East Cantons routes for free?
Yes. Public routes on Motarva download free of charge, with a free account.
Take your routes with you
The Motarva app for iPhone puts the whole route catalog in your pocket: browse routes, save your favorites and ride them from your phone. Free to download.