Molenbeekroute

This route winds around the middle course of the Großer Molenbeek. The brook originates in Zellik, changes its name to Vliet in Puurs, and finally flows into the Rupel in Ruisbroek. In addition to the Großer Molenbeek, one also encounters various other brooks that feed this stream during one’s exploration of Steenhuffel and its surroundings: Oude Beek, Robbeek, Kleine Molenbeek, and Kwadebeek. A bit overshadowed by the Palm Brewery lies the former Steenhuffel station, now called Leireken. It is believed that the station got its name from a now-lost steam train, which in turn was named after a popular train driver: Valère or Leireken. The bike path that runs in front of the station now also bears this name. The station was built starting in 1880 to serve the Londerzeel-Steenhuffel-Opwijk-Aalst railway line. The Steenhuffel station was closed in 1952. In 1978, there was at least good news for cyclists and hikers: The former railway line between Londerzeel and Opwijk was transformed into the Leirekensroute cycling and walking route. The municipality of Londerzeel, to which Steenhuffel belongs, became the owner of the station, but this did not prevent the building from slowly falling into disrepair. In 1984, the vzw Leireken received the building on a 35-year lease.
Thanks to the commitment of many volunteers and the operation of a weekend café, the former station has become one of the most well-known meeting and resting places for cyclists and hikers in Flanders. In the cozy café and on the terrace overlooking a train carriage from 1935, those looking for relaxation are sure to find their happiness.
Leireken is very strategically located: a staggering twelve cycling routes and ten walking paths begin there or pass by. The cycling routes include (of course) the Molenbeekroute and further the Bockerijdersroute, the Heemroute, the Grimbergse Molens, Vlassenbroek and Sint-Amands, Kartelobos, the Kravaalbosroute, the Ros Beiaardroute, the Vaartroute, the Notelaarsroute, the Houtekietroute, the Rondelzeelroute, and the Steendonkroute.

SAFETY
Fairly secure route.

TYPE OF ROAD
Generally, roads are in decent condition. 15% traffic-free.